How Old do You Have to Be to Drive a Moped

The minimum age to legally ride a moped varies slightly from state to state. 

Some states will allow you to ride a moped as long as you hold a standard permit or driver’s license.

Other states will require a motorcycle or moped-specific endorsement.

Moped Age Requirements

In most states, moped riders must be at least 14 to 16 years old with a valid:

• Moped permit.
• Motorcycle license.
• Learner’s permit.
• Intermediate driver’s license. 

OR

• Full driver’s license. 

If the rider is under 18 years old, they will often need to have completed driver’s education and/or a rider training course. For more information or questions specific to your state, be sure to visit your state’s official DMV website.

Other Moped Requirements

Remember, moped laws typically only apply to 2-3 wheel vehicles with:

• An engine size of no more than 49cc.
• A top speed of no more than 30mph. 

Additionally, moped riders will generally need to:

• Wear a DOT-approved helmet.
• Wear proper motorcycle protective gear. 
• Abide by any moped registration and insurance requirements.
• Not ride on the sidewalk.
• Avoid roadways with a posted speed limit above 30mph. 
• Not ride on the freeway. 
• Obey all traffic laws.  

Do you need a motorcycle license to drive a 50cc scooter?

In many states, you are not required to hold a motorcycle endorsement in order to ride a moped. 

The general requirement is that you’ll need to hold a valid, standard driver’s license. 

For more information, check out our guide on moped license requirements.

For scooters with an engine larger than 50cc and a top speed of over 30 mph, you will typically need to get your full motorcycle license. 

Regardless of whether or not you need a motorcycle license, it is still a good idea to get familiar with motorcycle safety and motorcycle riding techniques.