What Type of Scooters Are Legal in Illinois?

A scooter

Scooters are similar to motorcycles but are smaller with less horsepower. Each state classifies them differently and the laws regulating them vary from state to state. Illinois' classification is based on engine size.

Size

According to Illinois' Rules of the Road, a scooter with less than 150 cc displacement is considered a motor driven cycle. A scooter with more than 150 cc displacement is considered a motorcycle.

150 cc or less

If you own a scooter with less than 150 cc displacement engine in Illinois, you must obtain a Class L motorcycle license. You cannot drive this on the street with a car license.

Over 150 cc

If your scooter has an engine over 150 cc's, you must get a Class M motorcycle license.

Moped

A moped is a motor-assisted bicycle that can go no more than 30 mph and has a 2-brake horsepower. According to Illinois' Rules of the Road, you can ride this on the street with a car license. If it has a combustion engine, it cannot be more than 50 cc's.

Traffic laws

You may carry passengers only if the scooter or moped is designed for passengers and has a passenger seat and footrest. Mopeds must have headlights that are visible for 500 feet and must have reflective tail lights.

References

• Illinois rules of the road
• The Unofficial DMV Guide