In the UK, is it against the law for a child under the age of sixteen to ride pillion on a moped/scooter?

Question

In Italy I saw people taking their kids to school on scooters/mopeds.(vespa, etc) So much better for the environment, and more fun too. But i'm thinking that's probably illegal in the UK, right?

Answer 1

A provisional licence, full motorcycle or car licence is needed to operate a moped. An additional Compulsory Basic Training certificate is also required to ride a moped on public roads, except for anyone who obtained their full car driving licence or motorcycle licence before 1 February 2001.

A provisional moped licence may be obtained at the age of 16, whereas standard car and motorcycles licences are only available at the age of 17.

Provisional licences require learner plates and expire after two years if the licence holder has not upgraded their licence. Mopeds are subject to all of the same traffic laws as other vehicles.

All motorised cycles/motorcycles/mopeds under 50 cc are excluded from using UK motorways.