In South Carolina, you do need a license to legally drive a moped, but the type of license required is more flexible than a standard driver’s license. The state issues a special moped operator’s license for drivers who are at least 15 years old, and anyone with a regular driver’s license can also operate a moped without additional endorsements.
Riders must register their mopeds with the South Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles, follow traffic laws, and wear proper safety gear. If you were involved in an accident, a Charleston personal injury lawyer will guide you through the legal process.
South Carolina’s Definition of a Moped
SC Code § 56-5-165 defines a moped as a small, two- or three-wheeled vehicle with a motor of 50cc or less that cannot exceed 30 miles per hour on level ground. It may have pedals, but it doesn’t have to.
This legal definition sets mopeds apart from scooters and motorcycles, which typically have larger engines, higher speeds, and different licensing and insurance requirements.
A common misunderstanding is thinking that any small motorized bike counts as a moped. In reality, many scooters exceed the 50cc limit and are legally treated like motorcycles. Shelly Leeke in South Carolina will help you understand these distinctions so you can follow the correct rules and avoid unintentional violations.
Do You Need a License to Drive a Moped?
Yes, you need a license to legally drive a moped in South Carolina. The state issues a specific moped operator’s license, also called a Class G license, for riders. The minimum age to apply for a moped license is 15. However, anyone who already has a valid South Carolina driver’s license can also operate a moped without needing a separate license.
No additional endorsements or special permits are required beyond the moped license or a regular driver’s license. For more information, contact Shelly Leeke Law Firm.
How to Get a Moped License
If you’re at least 15, you can apply for a Class G moped license by passing the vision and written tests; no skills test is required. You must have either a driver’s license or a moped license to operate a moped, and the moped must be registered.
Once you turn 16, you can ride on your own at any time. Riders under 16 may ride alone only during the day, and may ride at night only if accompanied by a licensed driver who is at least 21 years old and has one year of driving experience.
To apply for a moped license in South Carolina, follow these steps:
- Fill out the SCDMV’s moped license application (Form 447-NC).
- If you are younger than 18, you must come with a parent, guardian, or another approved adult listed on the Consent for Minor form (447-CM) so they can sign for you.
- You’ll need to provide your Social Security number, and it must match the name and birthdate the Social Security Administration has on record.
- Bring your original birth certificate to confirm your identity, along with documentation that shows your current South Carolina residential address. If you want a REAL ID, you must bring two address documents.
- Pass both the vision exam and the written knowledge test to qualify for the license.
To get a moped license in South Carolina, you must provide documents that verify your identity. Accepted documents are listed on the U.S. Citizens Checklist (Form MV-93) and the International Customers Checklist (Form MV-94).
When you receive a South Carolina license or ID, any previous licenses from other states or provinces are canceled. If you later obtain a license from another jurisdiction, your SC moped license will be automatically canceled.
Registration and Insurance Requirements
In South Carolina, all mopeds must be registered with the DMV before they can be legally driven on public roads. To register a moped, you’ll need proof of ownership, such as a bill of sale, and identification documents.
Mopeds are required to have a license plate, which must be properly attached and clearly visible at all times. Unlike motorcycles or cars, South Carolina does not require insurance for mopeds, although carrying insurance is always recommended for financial protection in case of an accident.
You Need a License to Drive a Moped in South Carolina
In South Carolina, you must have a valid license to operate a moped. Riders can obtain a moped operator’s license starting at age 15, or use a regular driver’s license to legally drive a moped. Mopeds must also be registered with the DMV, and license plates must be properly displayed.
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Trust Shelly Leeke to handle your case with care and determination. If you were involved in an accident, we will take care of all legal aspects related to your case so that you can focus on healing. Shelly fights for you.
