Do you have to have a licence to operate an electric scooter in California ?

Question

in Canada you only have to be 16 and wear a helmet. My son is moving to California and I would like to ship it to him for Christmas.

Answer 1

There are two classes of motorcycle licenses, Class M1 and Class M2.

With a Class M1, you can operate any 2-wheel motorcycle and any motorized vehicle in Class M2.

With a Class M2, you can only operate any motorized bicycle or moped or any bicycle with an attached motor.

Effective January 1, 2006, you may operate a motorized scooter with a Class M1 or M2 driver license. Prior to January 1, 2006, you must have a Class C or higher driver license to operate a motorized scooter.

A motorized scooter is defined as: A two-wheeled "device" powered by a motor with a floorboard that is designed to stand on when riding. The scooter may also have a driver’s seat.

Refer to the Motorcycle Driver Handbook for more information.

To apply for a motorcycle Class M1 or M2 permit, you will need to:

* Be at least 15 ½ years of age

* Visit a DMV office (make an Appointment(s) for faster service)

* Complete application form DL 44 (An original DL 44 form must be submitted. Copies obtained by Xeroxing, faxing, or other methods will not be accepted.)

* Have your parents’ or guardians’ signatures on the application form DL 44

* Give a thumb print

* Have your picture taken

* Submit proof you have completed both driving education and driver training. (DL 387, DL 388, DL 388A, OL 237, or OL 238)

* Present an acceptable birth date/legal presence document.

* Provide your true full name.

* Provide your social security number. It will be verified with the Social Security Administration while you are in the office.

* Pay the required application fee. This fee is good for 12 months and allows you to take the appropriate law test(s) and skills test three times, if needed, within the 12 month period. This fee pays for both the instruction permit and driver license, if you qualify within that time period. If the application expires, it becomes void and all steps must be completed again.

* Pass an vision exam.

* Pass a traffic laws and signs test.

* Pass an additional law test of motorcycle driving rules.

OR

* Show your California driver license, if you have one issued to you.

* Pay the application fee

* Pass a vision exam

* Pass a traffic laws and signs test for motorcycles