Moped license

Michigan law section 257.32b defines a moped as having: 

• An engine that doesn’t exceed 100 cc’s piston displacement, 
• A power drive system that doesn’t require the operator to shift gears, and 
• A top speed of 30 mph or less on a level surface. 

If the vehicle exceeds any of these criteria, it is classified as a motorcycle.  

Residents with valid driver’s license, GDL Level 1 license with a moped privilege added; or a GDL Level 2 or Level 3 license can operate a moped without the moped license.    

If you don’t have a driver’s license, you need a moped license.   

To get a moped license:  

• Must be 15 years old or older. 
• Apply at a Secretary of State office.  
• Minors need a parent or guardian’s approval.  
• Pass moped knowledge, traffic sign, and vision tests 
• Provide proof of a Social Security number, proof of identity, legal presence document and proof of residency.  

Acceptable documents

You aren’t eligible for a moped license if your driver’s license is suspended, revoked, or denied. 

 

Helmet use is strongly encouraged when riding a moped for all moped users. Helmets are required for all moped operators under the age of 19.

Eye protection, such as goggles, isn’t mandated but is encouraged.

You must stay to the right side of the traffic lane and ride with traffic. 

Not allowed:  

• On bicycle paths. 
• Sidewalks. 
• Can’t operate a moped in a full lane of traffic.  

Your name will appear on two separate lines. Your first and middle name will appear on the first line, and your last name will appear on the line directly below.

• Michigan’s system allows up to 36 characters in the full name fields. If your name exceeds this limit, it will be automatically shortened.
• Apostrophes cannot be included on a Michigan driver’s license or state ID. Hyphens can be used for multiple names and will appear on the card.
• Suffixes such as JR, SR, and Roman numerals up to X may be included. These suffixes will appear at the end of the first line after your first and middle name.