O’Brien & Ford Buffalo Car Accident and Personal Injury Lawyers | January 14, 2025 | Motorcycle Accidents
Mopeds can be a quick and easy method of transportation, and they have quickly grown in popularity in the Buffalo area. In many cases, mopeds are more affordable than motorcycles. These vehicles are fuel efficient and are a stylish way to get around, but do you need a license to drive a moped?
Whether or not you need a motorcycle license depends on the specifics of the moped as well as your state laws. In New York, you may or may not need a motorcycle license, depending on specific criteria about the moped. Below, you can learn whether you need a motorcycle license to drive a moped.
What Is a Moped?
A moped is essentially a smaller and more lightweight version of a motorcycle. Most mopeds have a top speed of somewhere between 20 to 40 miles per hour. The New York Department of Motor Vehicles classifies a moped as a “limited use motorcycle” and goes on to state that these vehicles may have either two or three wheels.
Mopeds generally fall under the same legal requirements as motor scooters and other vehicles that qualify as a “limited-use motorcycle.” New York law also classifies mopeds into three categories based on their top speed:
- Class A: 30 – 40 mph top speed
- Class B: 20 – 30 mph top speed
- Class C: under 20 mph top speed
Although registration is required for all classes of mopeds, whether you need a motorcycle license depends on the classification of your moped. The classification also affects where you can operate your moped.
New York Motorcycle License Requirements For Mopeds
Do you need a driver’s license to drive a moped? The answer is yes, but New York does not require a special motorcycle license for Class B or Class C mopeds. Operators of Class B and Class C mopeds may drive their moped as long as they hold a valid, non-commercial driver’s license.
Remember that registration is still required for Class B and Class C mopeds. Helmet and eye protection are also required when operating a Class B moped, although it is also recommended for Class C operators.
If you have a Class A moped, you will need a motorcycle license to drive it in New York State. This license type is designated by the ‘M’ or ‘MJ’ class, which signifies that the license holder has passed the required testing to safely operate a motorcycle on the roadway. This requirement is in place to help prevent motorcycle accidents and ensure only qualified drivers are operating these vehicles.
Where Can I Drive a Moped in Buffalo, New York?
New York law also limits where you may operate certain types of mopeds. If you have a Class A moped, you can drive in any lane of traffic. Class A mopeds are treated basically the same as regular motorcycles.
However, Class B and Class C mopeds may only be driven in the right-hand lane of traffic or on the shoulder. This limitation applies at all times unless you are making a left-hand turn. Failure to follow these operating requirements could result in a citation and a fine.
You must also carry insurance on Class A and Class B mopeds. Although insurance is not required for personal Class C mopeds, it is recommended. If the Class C moped is being used as a rental, you will be required to carry insurance.
How To Get a New York Motorcycle License
Obtaining a motorcycle license in New York first requires getting a motorcycle learner permit. To get your permit, you will need to pass a written test. Your permit will be issued once you achieve a passing score.
Once you have your learner permit, it is recommended that you get at least 30 hours of practice on a motorcycle before scheduling your road test. If you are under 18, you must hold your learner permit for at least six months before scheduling your road test. You will be granted a full New York motorcycle license upon passing the road test.
Tips For Operating Your Moped Safely
Once you have the proper license and are driving your moped on the road, you should take extra precautions around traffic. Moped drivers do not typically fare well in car accidents, and being hit by a vehicle can result in catastrophic injuries. Some practices you should always follow include:
- Leave plenty of space between you and other vehicles.
- Always operate your moped in the designated legal lanes.
- Take extra precautions when changing lanes.
- Slow down and watch closely when approaching intersections.
Whether or not a motorcycle license is required in Buffalo, these safety precautions should always be followed.
Contact The Buffalo Motorcycle Accident Lawyers At O’Brien & Ford Buffalo Car Accident and Personal Injury Lawyers For Help Today
For more information, please contact the Buffalo motorcycle accident lawyers at O’Brien & Ford Buffalo Car Accident and Personal Injury Lawyers to schedule a free consultation with an accident lawyer. We have a convenient office location in Buffalo, NY.
We proudly serve all throughout Erie County and the state of New York.
O’Brien & Ford Buffalo Car Accident and Personal Injury Lawyers
4549 Main St, Suite 201
Buffalo, New York, 14226
(716) 222-2222
