Gas scooter in California requirements???

Question

I am seriously considering purchasing a Yamaha gas scooter for commuting to work in California but I have nooo idea what sort of requirements I need. The scooter I am purchasing has a top speed of around 45mph (I don't know the engine size).

Do I need a special driver's license? I am over 21 and have a valid Class C license.

Do I need registration or insurance? I have currently have car insurance.

Thanks for the help!!!

Answer 1

Yes, you get a motorcycle endorsement for your existing license.  Link is below.

Registration is the same as a car, same with insurance.  Contact your insurance agent to see if there are minimum state requirements, and if your existing insurance will cover those minimums.  Obviously you might want to consider theft insurance, which would be a separate policy.

Quote from DMV website:

How to apply for a motorcycle or moped driver license if you are over 18

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:

Visit a DMV office (make an appointment for faster service)

Complete application form DL 44 (An original DL 44 form must be submitted. Copies will not be accepted.)

Give a thumb print

Have your picture taken

Pay the application fee

Pass a vision exam

Pass a traffic laws and signs test. You have three chances to pass the test.

Note: To allow you sufficient time for testing DMV will not be administering written or audio exams after 4:30 p.m.

After studying both the California Driver and the Motorcycle Handbooks, call your local DMV to schedule your appointment for the traffic laws and sign test.

After completing the requirements, you will be issued an instruction permit to allow you to practice driving a motorcycle. You may not drive at night, on the freeway, or have any passengers with you.

To apply for your motorcycle Class M1 or M2 license, you must do one of the following:

If you are under 21, you must complete a motorcycle rider training course given by the California Highway Patrol (CHP) and provide a certificate of Completion of Motorcycle Training (DL 389) to DMV to be issued your license. You will not be required to take the motorcycle driving test at DMV if you currently have a California Drivers License.

If you are over 21, you may either choose to complete the course by CHP and provide the certificate OR schedule an appointment at DMV to take the driving test. (You may also call 1-800-777-0133 between the hours of 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. Monday-Friday, to make a driving test appointment.) You have three chances to pass the test.

For information about the CHP training course, please call 1-877-743-3411 or visit www.ca-msp.org.

After you have submitted your CHP certificate or passed your driving test, you will be issued an interim license valid for 60 days until you receive your new photo license in the mail. Double check your address before you leave DMV and tell the DMV representative if you have moved or if your address is incorrect. If you have not received your license after 60 days, call 1-800-777-0133 to check on the status. Have your interim license with you to provide information when requested.

Answer 2

California considers all scooters as motorcycles.  You'll need to get a M endorsement on your license (you can have a learners permit for a year by passing the written test, a riding test is needed for the full license).  You will also need at least PL and PD  insurance.

I'd reccommend taking the motorcycle foundation safety course  in your area too.  This automatically gets you an M endorsement and gives you life saving (your life) information on operating a two-wheeled vehicle.  Scooters, no matter how small the engine, are as much responsibility as a motorcycle.