Florida Laws on Electric Scooters

Some electric scooters may not be legal to drive on Florida roads.

There are many advantages to using a motor scooter. They are relatively cheap to buy and very environmentally friendly. They also are a way to save on fuel costs by using them for short trips instead of driving a car. However, not every state allows electric scooters to be driven on roadways. In Florida, the state's laws are very specific depending on the type of vehicle: a motorcycle, a moped or a motorized scooter.

Definition

When buying a vehicle, the purchaser will be given a certificate of origin. Some vehicles that are identified as motor scooters on the certificate of origin may not be considered a motor scooter under Florida law, however.

According to Florida law, a motor scooter is any vehicle without a seat or saddle for the rider, designed to ride on not more than three wheels. Also, they must not be capable of traveling at speeds greater than 30 mph.

Florida law defines a moped as any vehicle with a pedals that allow for propulsion by human power, with a seat or saddle for the rider and made to ride on not more than three wheels. In addition, the motor must not be rated in excess of 2 brake horsepower. The power-drive system must function directly or automatically without the driver having to use a clutch or change gears after the drive system is engaged.

A motorcycle is defined as any vehicle with a seat or saddle designed to ride on not more than three wheels, excluding a moped or tractor.

Registration

In Florida, vehicles that are defined as motor scooters can not be titled or registered. They are not allowed to be driven on Florida roads. Mopeds must be registered, no title is required and they can be driven on Florida roads. Motorcycles must be registered and titled if they are to be driven on Florida roads.

Sale of Motor Scooters

According to Florida law, anyone selling electric scooters that are considered motor scooters must prominently display a sign in his business a notice that the vehicles are not legal to drive on Floriday roadways or sidewalks and can't be registered as a motor vehicle. The notice also must appear in all advertising that offers motor scooters for sale.

References

• The Unofficial DMV Guide: Florida Mopeds, Scooters, etc.
• Onlline Sunshine: Operation of Motorized Scooters and Miniature Motorcycles