Do i need a M-license to ride a 49cc Honda Ruckus in California?

Question

Or will a normal drivers license do?

Answer 1

According to the DMV:

California offers two classes of motorcycle license: M1 and M2. With an M1 license, you may ride any type of motorcycle with an attached motor, or any motorized scooter. With an M2 classification, you will be permitted to drive a motorized bicycle, a moped, a bicycle with an attached motor, or a motorized scooter only.

Since the Ruckus is considered a scooter, you can get by with only an M2 license.  The only thing that you can ride that is powered without a license is electric powered.

Answer 2

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Answer 3

You will need an M-license to ride a 49cc Honda Ruckus in California because a normal drivers license will not do.

A "motorized scooter is not a motor vehicle" pursuant to California Vehicle Code section 21224, subdivision (a).  Tell Honda that you do not want to pay them for vehicle registration, title, and licensing fees.  If they say, "okay", then the Ruckus is a motorized scooter requiring only a Class M2 driver's license.  But if Honda tells you that the DMV requires them to collect those fees, then it is a motor-driven cycle requiring a Class M1 license or permit.

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