The Difference Between A Moped and A Motor-Driven Cycle

A question we often get at FooteWork: What is the difference between a moped and a motor-driven cycle and what are the licensing requirements?

Moped - A bicycle -human-powered vehicle (with pedals)

• Has a 50 cc or less helper motor 
• 1.5 hp or less braking power 
• Rated at maximum top speed of 25 mph (on a flat surface with less than a one per cent grade)
• Any class of driver license can be used to operate a moped
• A moped must be registered, but a vehicle title is not issued
• Emissions testing is not required 
• Vehicle liability insurance is required

Motor-driven Cycle - A motor scooter and motorcycle

• Has a 50 cc or higher motor
• Manufactured to exceed 20 mph
• Rated at 5 hp or less
• Not more than three wheels in contact with the ground
• Includes motor scooters rated at 5 hp or less
• A motorcycle license or endorsement is needed to operate any motor-driven cycle
• A motor-driven cycle must be both titled and registered 
• Emissions testing is not required 
• Vehicle liability insurance is required

Whether you own a moped, scooter, motorcycle, car, OHV, airplane, boat, commercial vehicle, or RV,  FooteWork provides complete full service vehicle registration and title services. Footework is your one stop vehicle registration office!  Licensed and bonded, FooteWork processes your title work while you wait.  For a nominal service fee, you'll leave our office with a new title, registration or license plate in as little as 10 minutes.  Come see us!