When it comes to scooters and mopeds in Texas, laws have been rather unclear. Thanks to recent changes in legislation, we now have a better legal understanding of what defines a motorcycle from a moped.
We aren’t Texas lawyers, but we will demystify the myths of scooters!
In Texas, you only need a basic (Class C) driver's license to ride a Moped. Moped/Motorcycle and scooter laws vary from state to state. All riders must follow the laws of the state in which their license was issued (For example, if your driver's license is from Texas, you would follow Texas licensing laws). In Texas, if the scooter is on the Texas Certified Moped List, than it qualifies as a Moped. If it's not on this list (Like the Honda Ruckus for example), it is considered a motorcycle by state law and you'll need a motorcycle license to legally ride. All of the new 49cc scooters we sell qualify as MOPEDS in Texas! We strongly recommend all riders complete a Motorcycle Safety Foundation course, even if you're riding a 49cc scooter. Click here for the current list of Texas Certified Mopeds!
This is going to sound a bit crazy, but by Texas law, you can buy any scooter or motorcycle with only a GOVERNMENT ISSUED ID. That could be a driver's license, state or federal issued ID card, passport, etc. Now for the MASSIVE disclaimer: the requirements to BUY a scooter/motorcycle and the requirements to LEGALLY RIDE a scooter/motorcycle are very different. To ride most 49cc scooters in Texas, you only need a basic Class C driver's license.. the same license that allows you to drive passenger cars/trucks. To ride anything above 49cc (and 49cc scooters not on the certified moped list) you'll need a motorcycle license. See our FAQ about Licensing for Mopeds vs Motorcycles for more info.
Much like licenses, helmet laws vary from state to state. In Texas, if you are 21 and have an applicable health insurance plan, you do not have to wear a helmet. For obvious reasons, Scoots recommends riders wear full safety gear anytime they plan on riding. Scoots will also require all rental clients to wear a helmet for their safety. For more information, visit the Texas DPS site here
In Texas you DO need to carry liability insurance at the state minimum coverage of 30/60/25. Fortunately, insuring scooters is CRAZY CHEAP! A typical liability policy on most scooter runs less than $80 for the whole year! You can also carry full coverage for most scooter models with price averages around $35/mo. Of course your insurance rate will depend on a number of factors like driving history, age, scooter model, etc.