Iowa Law on Gas Scooters

Iowa has different regulations for different types or scooters.

Iowa law for scooters does not differentiate between gas-powered and electric scooters. Scooter law in Iowa is based on a scooter's speed while on flat ground, with the laws varying depending on if a scooter is classified as a motorcycle, moped or neither.

Types

All gas-powered scooters that are able to reach 30 or more miles per hour on level ground are classified as motorcycles and must adhere to Iowa's laws regarding motorcycle use. Scooters that obtain speeds between 20 and 30 miles per hour must adhere to the state's moped laws and those that do not reach speeds of 20 miles per hour can not be used on Iowa roadways.

Requirements

Gas scooters that are deemed mopeds or motorcycles must be registered with the state and are eligible to drive on Iowa's public roads, so long as all driving laws are followed. Motorcycle drivers must hold a valid motorcycle license or permit, while moped drivers may hold a driver's license or moped permit. Teens between the ages of 14 and 15 may apply for a moped permit after completing an approved rider education course. Gas scooters that are unable to reach 20 miles per hour are only allowed to be driven on private property, with landowner permission.

Warning

In addition to other requirements, gas scooters that are considered mopeds must have a Day-Glo colored safety flag attached to the back of the moped that extends at least five feet off the ground, is triangular and is at least 30 inches. Moped drivers may not carry passengers and must keep both hands on the handlebars when driving on public roadways.

References

• Iowa Department of Transportation: Motorized Scooters, Electrified Bicycles & Other Personal Transport Vehicles
• Iowa Department of Transportation: Registering and Titling Motorized Bicycles (Mopeds)