Some states require you to have a motorcycle license to operate motor scooters, while others simply require a regular driver’s license. In Nevada, the answer depends on the specifics of your motor scooter. Smaller scooters and mopeds require a regular driver’s license, but larger scooters that can travel at higher speeds require a motorcycle license.
Keep reading below to get all the details.
What Is Considered a Motor Scooter in Nevada?
The type of license you need will depend on how your motor scooter is classified.
You may hear motor scooters called many different things, such as:
- Moped
- Motorbike
- Motorcycle
- Motor scooter
- Motorized bicycle
- Motor-driven cycle
Under Nevada law, smaller motor scooters are called mopeds, and to qualify as a moped, your motor scooter must:
- Have no more than 2 brake horsepower
- Have an engine no larger than 50cc
- Be capable of traveling no faster than 30 mph
To operate a moped, drivers only need a regular driver’s license. Scooters or motor-driven cycles with larger engines or that travel more than 30 mph will be classified as a motorcycle. Operating one of these larger cycles or scooters on the road requires a motorcycle (Class M) license in Nevada.
How to Get a Motorcycle License in Nevada
If your motor scooter requires a motorcycle license, you must go through the process of getting a motorcycle license (Class M license). There are a few ways to get a motorcycle license in Nevada.
One method is to complete a Motorcycle Safety Foundation (MSF) course. Take your certificate of completion and your regular driver’s license to your local DMV to get your motorcycle license.
Instead of the MSF course, you can also choose to take a written test and skills test at the DMV. After successfully passing both tests, you can then obtain your motorcycle license.
Riders under 18 must first obtain an instruction permit before getting a full motorcycle license. This permit must be held for at least 6 months prior to completing the requirements for the full motorcycle license.
Motor Scooter Registration and Helmet Requirements
In Nevada, mopeds must be registered. However, you only need to register your moped once, rather than renewing it every year. Motorcycles are subject to the same registration requirements as other motor vehicles. Motorcycle riders must also carry liability insurance, just like drivers of motor vehicles, while mopeds typically do not require it.
Helmets must be worn on both mopeds and motorcycles. This rule is in place to protect riders in the event of a motorcycle accident. If you are struck by a motor vehicle while riding your motor scooter, a helmet could prevent you from suffering catastrophic injuries. If your moped does not have a windshield, you must also wear protective eyewear while riding.
What To Do If You Are Involved in an Accident
If you are involved in an accident while riding your motor scooter, you should take the appropriate steps to protect yourself and your legal rights.
After an accident, you should:
- Get immediate medical treatment for your injuries. Even minor crashes involving a motor scooter or motorcycle can cause serious injuries, such as brain injuries and more.
- Notify law enforcement of your accident so that they can create an accident report. They will perform an initial investigation of your accident and might even assign initial liability.
- Gather evidence at the scene if you are able and document everything. Take photos of all the vehicles and get contact information from any witnesses.
- Talk to an experienced personal injury lawyer who can help you through the insurance claims process.
Taking these steps early can help protect your health and preserve important evidence if you decide to pursue an insurance claim or legal action later.
Contact the Las Vegas Personal Injury Lawyers at De Castroverde Accident & Injury Lawyers for Help Today
At De Castroverde Accident & Injury Lawyers, we handle claims involving motor scooters and motorcycles, and we can help you maximize your recovery. If you have been hurt in an accident while riding a motor scooter in Las Vegas, NV, or the surrounding Nevada area, you may be entitled to significant compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more.
Contact us today for a free consultation with a Las Vegas personal injury attorney.
We have three locations in Nevada for your convenience, including Las Vegas, Summerlin, and Henderson. We’re proud to serve Clark County and the surrounding areas.
De Castroverde Accident & Injury Lawyers – Las Vegas Office
1149 S Maryland Pkwy, Las Vegas, NV 89104
(702) 222-9999
De Castroverde Accident & Injury Lawyers – Summerlin Office
410 S Rampart Blvd, Ste 480 Las Vegas, NV 89145
(702) 964-1806
De Castroverde Accident & Injury Lawyers – Henderson Office
9555 S Eastern Ave, Las Vegas, NV 89123
(702) 800-3455
About the Author
Alex De Castroverde earned his law degree from Nova Southeastern University Shepard Broad College of Law and is licensed to practice in Nevada. He is a dedicated trial lawyer who assists clients across Las Vegas in a wide range of legal matters, with a focus on personal injury. Alex has successfully represented clients in cases involving car accidents, catastrophic injuries, truck accidents, motorcycle accidents and more. Click here to learn more about the outstanding case results Alex has achieved for his clients.
