Issues with Motorized Scooters and Bicycles Addressed

The Martinsburg Police Department has been receiving many questions (and complaints) concerning motorized scooters (motor scooters) and bicycles with electric assist recently and would like to issue the following information for everyone’s safety.

Gasoline and electric motor scooters have become hot items among children and teenagers.

A motorized scooter is a 2-wheeled vehicle powered by an engine or an electric motor and does not have a seat or saddle for the driver.

According to the PA Motor Vehicle Code, motor scooters are found under the definition of a motor-driven cycle.

These vehicles are not exempt from titling and registration requirements as set forth by PennDOT and would be required to pass equipment standards and inspection requirements.

However, motor scooters do not comply with the equipment standards and inspection requirements for motor vehicles, and cannot be titled or registered within the commonwealth.

In addition, these vehicles cannot be operated on roadways or sidewalks in Pennsylvania.

Unfortunately, many individuals are spending their hard-earned money to purchase motorized scooters just to find out that they cannot be operated on Pennsylvania’s roadways or sidewalks.

Motorized scooters and motor scooters which are not registered, inspected and insured may only be driven on private property, with the permission of the property owner.

Also becoming popular are bicycles with electric assist. Pedalcycles with electric assist are considered a bicycle and do not require titling, registration, or insurance. The operator does not require a driver’s license but must be at least 16 years of age.

Bicyclists are required to abide by all traffic laws, the same as driving any other vehicle on the roadway. Children under 12 years of age are required to wear an approved bicycle helmet while operating a bicycle or riding as a passenger.

Feel free to contact the Martinsburg Police Department if you have questions or comments.

Have a safe summer.