Do I Need a License to Drive a Vespa?

Vespa, a brand name for motorized scooters are becoming increasingly popular in the U.S. In addition to being fun to drive and affordable, these vehicles are extremely fuel-efficient. Depending on the model you purchase you may or may not need to have a special license. 

Do I Need a License to Drive a Scooter?

In the United States, the requirements for driving a moped vary from state to state. Mopeds come with a wide variety of engine sizes, but the three most common ones are 50cc, 150cc, or 250cc. In most states if your scooter is 50cc or smaller, you may only be required to have a standard learner’s permit or driver’s license. 

If the engine on your scooter exceeds 50cc, you’ll have to get a motorcycle endorsement on your license. You’ll need a motorcycle permit and will have to participate in a road skills test specifically for any motorized scooter. Once you pass that test, you can then legally drive any moped or motorcycle. 

Vespa has two scooters the Primavera 50cc and the Sprint 50cc that can be ridden without a motorcycle license (you only need a valid car license) in the following states: Alaska, Arkansas, Colorado, Connecticut, Indiana, Iowa, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New Mexico, New York, North Carolina, Oregon, Rhode Island, South Dakota, Virginia, and Wisconsin. For all the other Vespa models you’ll need a valid motorcycle license. 

Do Traffic Laws Differ for Scooters and Motorcycles?

50cc engines are great for people who live in small cities or don’t use the highway, since the max speed is 35-40 mph. A 150cc engine can go a little faster at 50-60 mph, and 250+cc engines can reach speeds of up to 75+ mph and can be ridden on highways. Traffic laws are the same for all vehicles whether they are cars, motorcycles, mopeds, or scooters. Some regions do have extra laws for mopeds. 

All states prohibit mopeds from riding between lanes in traffic and some states don’t allow mopeds to ride side by side. Mopeds that have smaller engine sizes, like the 50cc and 150cc models are slower than cars and motorcycles and therefore you cannot safely or legally ride them on highways. If you plan to use your scooter on highways, then you’ll need to purchase a model with a bigger engine that’s designed for that type of driving. 

Helmet regulations also vary in different states. There are approved designs of helmets in 20 states for passengers and riders on a moped, however some states only require helmets for young riders. In some states riders are also required to wear goggles if the moped does not have a windshield. Regardless of your state laws, we always recommend wearing a helmet while riding your scooter. 

If you have questions about which Vespa is right for you give us a call at 303-308-1811 or contact us here.