June 2, 2008 — For Immediate Release

Many scooters require rider training and endorsement

OLYMPIA — As gas prices soar, many drivers are turning to fuel efficient motor scooters to help ease their pain at the pump. The Department of Licensing reminds drivers that most scooters, known in state law as mopeds or motorcycles, require riders to have a motorcycle endorsement.

“Scooters are a hot item right now, and there is some confusion about them,” said Steve Stewart of DOL’s motorcycle safety program. “We want people to know moped riders have to follow the same rules of the road as full-sized motorcycle riders.”

State law requires the operator of any two- or three-wheel vehicle capable of traveling faster than 30 miles per hour to have a motorcycle endorsement on their driver license, regardless of the size of the vehicle’s engine.

“Many scooters with 50cc (cubic centimeter) engines can travel faster than 30 miles per hour,” said Stewart. “Riders of those bikes need to be properly endorsed, just like any other motorcycle rider.”

A regular driver license is enough if the moped travels 30 miles per hour or less and has an engine smaller than 50ccs.

Many motorcycle training schools statewide offer classes on mopeds or “step through” motorcycles. For more information, log on to www.endorseyoursport.com.