Virgina has some very interesting and unusual laws in regards to scooters. First and foremost, please keep in mind that Virginia considers some scooters to be motorcycles, and some scooters to be mopeds. There is no legal qualification that simply covers all motorscooters. Therefore the first thing that you need to know is whether you plan on riding a moped or a motorcycle, and then figure out which class your scooter falls into. Virginia Code section 46.2-100 defines a moped as a vehicle that: Virginia has updated some parts of the moped code for 2014! The following is all the information about the current moped laws so that you can be a legal eagle. One of the great things about Virginia is how easy it is for you to start riding a 50cc scooter. You see, any 2-wheeled vehicle with an engine that is smaller than 50cc and a top speed of 35mph is legally considered to be moped in Virginia.  There are some other things to keep in mind, of course.  You’ll need to be at least 16 years old and you’ll need to stay off of any roads that are considered to be highways (those are the roads with the sign at an on ramp that lets you know that farm equipment and mopeds are not allowed). 

As per the new law that went into effect on July 1, 2013, every moped rider in Virginia must wear a DOT approved helmet and either have a windshield or wear eye protection such as goggles, safety glasses, or a helmet with a visor. Your passenger must also wear a DOT approved helmet. You need to carry a government issues ID of some type, and this does NOT mean you’ll need a drivers license or motorcycle license! You are legal as long as you have an ID card, passport, or some other form of state or federal ID with your name and address. You’ll need to follow the rules of the road just like the other vehicles. But now on to the list of things that you don’t need.  You do not need a motorcycle license. You WILL need to title and register your moped by July 1, 2014, and the cost for that is $10 for titling and $20.25 per year for registration. No state inspection is required on your vehicle. A moped does not require insurance (although it is not a bad idea to have recreational vehicle insurance, which should be covered by most insurance companies-keep in mind that your renters or home owners insurance typically DOES NOT COVER MOPEDS!!).

There are some misconceptions about 49cc bikes in Virginia too. We often hear people refer to a scooter as a “liquor cycle”. tron legacy light motorcycle for saleVirginia law notes that while you are not required to have a motorcycle license or a drivers license in order to ride a moped, you cannot drive a moped if you have lost your license due to drug or alcohol related charges, or if you have been judged to be a habitual offender. motorcycle wheel chock auIf you have lost your drivers license because of some other reason (for example: unpaid fines, points thanks to moving violations, etc), then you are generally clear to ride a 50cc scooter or moped. honda motorcycle parts albany ny

Please note that Scoot Richmond is not a legal adviser, and you should probably check with someone who does law stuffs for a living if you aren’t sure of your status.harley davidson lanyard sale It’s more likely that you are considering a 50cc scooter because of the ease of use and not because of legal driving limitations, and therefore we’d like to mention a few things to help you decide between a 50cc scooter and a larger faster scooter. 200mm motorcycle tiresSome people feel far more comfortable on a 50cc scooter when they are getting started on 2 wheels. gambler motorcycle helmetThe fact that a 50cc scooter generally goes about 35mph sounds easier and safer in some way, and the fact that you do not have to take a test in order to get your license makes it sound both easy and attractive.motorcycle helmets noise comparison

For other folks, the simple fact of a scooter that is a moped’s top speed of 35mph is simply impossible. The licensing test is actually quite easy, especially on a scooter (perhaps the best vehicle ever for getting your motorcycle license). And insurance is very affordable, for the most part. Loads of people are completely happy with a 50cc scooter for years and years. Just as many people are ready to upgrade from a 50cc scooter to something bigger and faster sometimes only a few weeks after purchase. While Scoot Richmond can’t definitively tell you which camp you will fall into, we can certainly do our best to help you choose the right scooter for your current needs. If the vehicle is defined as a motorcycle, you need a few extra things in order to legally drive it. Sure, there are a few more things that are required of you before you ride a motorcycle…and all of them are completely worth it! Similar to mopeds, you must wear a DOT approved helmet and eye protection when riding a motorcycle.

The best way to learn all of the specifics of motorcycle laws in Virginia is to peruse the VA Motorcycle Operator’s Handbook. Facts About Mopeds and Scooters Restrictions for Mopeds and Scooter For a simplified registration renewal, you can use an independent agency for an additional fee. See below for more details. Recent advancements in the industry have led to a much easier experience for renewing your auto registration. Although it's now possible to renew your registration online via your local DMV, you may prefer the convenience and service provided by our approved partner for a modest fee. State Motor Vehicle Agency Available Nights & Weekends Do it for me First, make sure your scooter or moped fits the following criteria: Has no more than 3 wheels that are in contact with the road. Has a seat that is no lower than 24 inches in height. Has a gasoline, electric, or hybrid motor that is less than 50 cubic centimeters (cc) and a maximum speed of less than 35 MPH. (Mopeds that travel at great speeds are classified as motorcycles and are required to follow the rules and regulations set for motorcycles.)

If your moped or scooter meets the above definitions you need to register and title it with the Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles by July 1, 2014 if you want to drive it on public roads. You will NOT be required to: Carry insurance on your moped or scooter* Have a safety inspection Have an odometer reading Pay use tax (you are required to pay the sales tax on the purchase) Pay electric vehicle fee *While you are not required to carry insurance on your moped or scooter in Virginia it is a good idea to consider it. Moped insurance has a nominal fee and is a great way to protect yourself and your moped or scooter should you be in an accident. 35 MPH is the maximum speed allowed for mopeds/scooters. Riders must be at least 16 years old and obey all rules of the road. Helmets must be worn by driver and passenger. Face shield or safety goggles must be worn by the driver IF the moped lacks a windshield. Government-issued photo ID (this does not have to be a driver's license) must be carried by the driver.

The ID must include the driver's name, address, and date of birth. Mopeds are prohibited on Interstates. You may NOT drive a moped if your driver's license has been suspended or revoked based on an conviction of: Drinking while under age. Refusing to take a breath or blood test. Driving while your driver's license was suspended or revoked for a DUI conviction. Earphones can NOT be worn while operating a moped is against the law. Register your moped by bringing the following to any customer service center: A completed Application for Certificate of Title and Registration (Form VSA 17A). A Moped Certification (Form VSA 31). Proof of ownership in the form of a title, a manufacturer's certificate or origin, or a Bill of Sale. Proof of your address. Check, cash or credit card to pay the $10 titling fee and the $20.25 registration fee. (PLEASE NOTE: Laws and some fees can vary by locality. Be sure to check other requirements that may be in effect in various cities, towns, counties or states.)