Vespa and Scooter Laws in New York
New York State's Vehicle and Traffic Law defines a limited use motorcycle as a "low-speed vehicle with two or three wheels." Under this interpretation, mopeds and scooters are considered limited use motorcycles, which means that they must adhere to motorcycle registration and licensing laws.
Vespas, Mopeds and Scooters
Even though non-owners may not treat mopeds and scooters as serious bikes, the New York Department of Motor Vehicles (MVD) treats them very seriously. Mopeds and scooters, just like motorcycles, require full registration and a driver's license to operate.
Do You Need a Motorcycle License for a Vespa in NY?
In New York, you need a motorcycle license to drive a vehicle with an engine size over 50cc. You also need a motorcycle license for any scooter or moped that can reach over 30–40 mph speeds.
Moped and Scooter Classifications
The DMV divides mopeds and scooters into three classifications (A, B, and C), based on top speed. Each class comes with specific requirements and restrictions.
- Class A reaches top speeds between 30 and 40 mph, requires a class M/MJ license, and can be operated in any traffic lane.
- Class B reaches top speeds between 20 and 30 mph, does not require a specific license, and can be operated only in either the right hand lane, or along the shoulder.
- Class C reaches top speeds of 20 mph or less, does not require a specific license, and can be operated only in either the right hand lane, or along the shoulder.
To register, you must visit a DMV office and bring with you:
- A completed Vehicle Registration/Title Application.
- A completed Statement of Transaction for Sales Tax, proof of being tax exempt, or proof of having paid the sales tax.
- Proof of ownership. A Manufacturer's Certificate of Origin (MCO), a bill of sale, or a previous registration that was transferred over to you will suffice as rock-solid proof.
- Proof of identity.
- Cash, check, or credit card to pay all applicable fees.
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"Dan and the team at Flanzig & Flanzig are exceptional."Dan and the team at Flanzig & Flanzig are exceptional. From the day of my incident to the final settlement, Dan and the entire Flanzig & Flanzig team were attentive and communicated all steps clearly. The process is not easy or fast (although mine seemed to progress quicker than others), and it was comforting to know I could focus on recovery while the Flanzig & Flanzig team took care of all the paperwork, court sessions, and negotiated a great outcome. Thank you, Dan and Team!!!- Bouker P.
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"I highly recommend working with them."Daniel Flanzig and his team have been a pleasure to work with. I experienced an unfortunate bike accident over the summer and Daniel and Shirley were nothing short of compassionate, clear, and organized while guiding me through the no-fault process. They have been incredibly responsive and easy to reach, no matter the question(s). I highly recommend working with them.- Alix M.
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"Flanzig & Flanzig should be your first call"If you’re a cyclist seeking justice after an accident, Daniel Flanzig and his team at Flanzig & Flanzig should be your first call.
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"Persistent and Professional"
I highly recommend Cathy if you’re looking for a lawyer who is persistent, professional, and truly cares about her clients. I was hit by a taxi cab while riding my bike, and the process to get a settlement took much longer than expected due to COV
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"Went above and beyond to get a favorable settlement"Dan and his team were quick to respond after my bike accident and went above and beyond to get a favorable settlement.- Jared
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"Daniel and his team made what was a stressful situation much less overwhelming"After being hit on my bike, Daniel and his team made what was a stressful situation much less overwhelming. Daniel himself explained everything thoroughly and I felt supported throughout the whole process with followup from his team. Super grateful to have found Daniel and wouldn't hesitate to recommend him.- Cody
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"Fantastic to work with"Daniel & team were absolutely fantastic to work with over a 4 year period after I was involved in a serious cycling accident.- Chris Aspinall
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