Minnesota Moped Laws

A moped is a vehicle that is propelled by a motor of a capacity of 50cc or less, and a maximum of two brake horse power, which is capable of a maximum speed of not more than 30 mph on a flat surface.

A foot scooter that is capable of no more than 15 mph and has wheels 10 inches in diameter or less. All operators of motorized foot scooters must be 12 years of age or older to operate one legally. No passengers may ride on motorized foot scooters.

Operators of mopeds must have either a valid drivers license or a motorized bicyle permit.

To obtain a motorized bicycle permit, applicants must:

• Complete an approved course
• Be atleast 15 years old by the time the course is completed
• Present completion card to examiner to take written and riding test (permit is void after obtaining drivers license.)

• Moped riders must wear eye protection at all times.
• All operators and riders under the age of 18 are required to wear a helmet. The helmet can be a certified bicycle helmet or motorcycle helmet.
• Mopeds may only carry passengers when they are equipped with a passenger seat and foot pegs. The operator and passenger must also be related as a parent/guardian with his or her child. So friends are not allowed to ride with eachother on any vehicle classified as a moped.
• Driving a moped under the influence of alcohol or drugs results in a loss of driving privilege until the age of 18, or 6 months, whichever is greater, a large fine, a tainted driving record for a lifetime, an alcohol problem assessment treatment, increased insurance rates when you are legally able to drive, and a high license reinstatement fee.
• A child riding with his or her parent must ride behind the driver (cannot sit in front of the driver), and has to wear a helmet. The child has to be able to reach the foot pegs - the foot pegs can legally be raised.
• Mopeds do not need to be inspected in Minnesota.
• All mopeds made after 1987 are required to have a headlight for operation on public roadways.
• To operate a moped when it is dark outside, it must be equipped with a headlight that meets the standard set for motorcycles.
• Mopeds may not be operated on any interstate highways.
• A rear view mirror and horn is required for operation on public roadways.
• Mopeds are not allowed on lanes and trails that have been set aside for bicycles, though electric-assisted bicycles may ride in a bicycle lane. Ride on a paved shoulder, if available. If not, ride in the extreme right portion of lane. Motorized foot scooters may be operated on bicycle paths, lanes, trails, and bikeways unless prohibited under local jurisdiction.
• Mopeds should operate in the traffic lane only when you are passing, preparing for a left turn, or avoiding a hazard, animal, or pedestrian in your way. Pull back over to the right as soon as you safely can.
• Riding on sidewalks is not permitted except where it would be necessary for a short distance to get from a driveway, alley or building to an adjacent roadway.
• It is illegal to ride between stopped (or moving) lanes of cars on the street or at intersections.

Mopeds must be registered in Minnesota. A title or proof of sale of the moped is required for registration, along with a photograph. After registration, mopeds are required to have license plates, which have a silver sheeting with blue letters that resemble a motorcycle license. All moped registrations expire in February. The license plate displays the month of expiration sticker and a year validation sticker. A new moped or motorycle license plate will cost $3, and the renewal has a $4.50 service fee. A registration tax is $6 annually for all mopeds.