What are the differences between mopeds and scooters?
Mopeds and scooters are similar vehicles, but there are distinct differences between them in terms of top speed, engine size, and chassis design. Scooters generally have larger engines than mopeds and can reach higher speeds. Mopeds have a minimalist design compared to scooters and are often preferred for shorter trips. Some small-engine mopeds may not require insurance, but you typically need a motorcycle policy with liability coverage before you can operate a scooter.
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What is a moped?
Mopeds, originally considered motorized bicycles, are compact, slower vehicles that typically get better gas mileage than scooters. While their low speeds make them appealing to commuters in cities, mopeds aren't allowed on major highways because of their engine size.
With a maximum engine size of 50 cubic centimeters, a moped's speed typically only reaches 28 to 30 miles per hour. Laws regarding moped licenses vary widely from state to state – some require an endorsement or a license to operate a moped on the road, while several states don't require having any special license at all.
What is a scooter?
Scooters are similar to mopeds in many ways but typically have larger engines that range in size from 50cc to 250cc. That means top speeds as high as 60 or 70 miles per hour. Like mopeds, scooters tend to be extraordinarily fuel-efficient, though those with larger engines are typically less fuel-efficient than those with smaller engines.
How fast can a scooter go?
Some scooters can go as fast as, if not faster than, motorcycles. The main difference between a scooter and a motorcycle is found in the frame and design of the vehicle. However, most states don't differentiate between the two legally. To operate a road-legal scooter, most states require a driver to have a motorcycle license. That also means scooters are often insured as motorcycles. Learn more about how motorcycle insurance works.
Buying a moped or scooter
Before you buy a moped or scooter, consider several questions:
Are you comfortable on a moped or scooter?
Safety is a top priority when riding either a moped or scooter. Scooters have larger engines and are capable of higher speeds than mopeds, which can increase the risk of injury. If you're not comfortable with the power of a scooter, you may be better off buying a moped or another type of vehicle.
How do you intend to use the vehicle?
Mopeds and scooters are used in different ways. Mopeds are common for commuting, while scooters are more popular for highway driving. If you want a convenient, fuel-efficient means of transportation over short distances, you may want to buy a moped. If you want a high-speed vehicle built for cruising or commuting over longer distances, you may want to buy a scooter.
Can you handle the weight of a moped or scooter?
Mopeds typically weigh 150 to 200 pounds, while scooters can weigh up to 250 pounds due to their larger engines and frames. If you're unable to safely handle the weight of a moped or scooter — while riding or storing the vehicle — you may want to look for a smaller vehicle. Conversely, the moped or scooter must be able to accommodate your weight, including you, your belongings, and potentially a passenger.
How much does it cost?
The cost of a moped or scooter can vary widely based on the brand, engine size, design, and features. Entry-level mopeds can cost as little as $500, according to Aventura. High-end mopeds could cost up to $5,000, according to Lazer Helmets.
Scooters tend to cost more than mopeds because of their design and higher-powered engines. Popular high-end brands like Vespa offer premium scooters. As of May 2025, the Vespa GTS 310 HPE starts at $7,899.
Where do you buy a moped or scooter?
You have a few options when it comes to buying a moped or scooter. If you want a more common or prestigious brand, you can visit scooter or moped dealerships in your area. This gives you the advantage of test riding a variety of models to get a better sense of the riding experience.
For a wider selection, you can search online marketplaces, including Facebook Marketplace or Craigslist. These sites offer used mopeds and scooters, where you may be able to find a discounted price, negotiate a better deal, and test ride the moped or scooter before buying.
Big box stores like Target, Walmart, and Amazon sell mopeds and scooters. Be sure to read reviews and research the specific moped or scooter models, especially if you're buying online. Some models require assembly if shipped through these outlets.
Is insurance required for mopeds and scooters?
You're generally required to have a motorcycle insurance policy with liability coverage if operating any vehicle with an engine of 50cc or greater, though requirements vary by state. Liability coverage may pay for damages or injuries you cause to others while operating the vehicle, up to your coverage limit. In addition, some lenders may require motorcycle comprehensive coverage and motorcycle collision coverage if you finance or lease the vehicle.
Some states require liability coverage for any motorized vehicle on the road, while others don't require insurance if the engine is smaller than 50cc or the top speed is lower than 30 miles per hour.
How much insurance is required for mopeds vs. scooters?
Although requirements vary, you must typically have as much bodily injury and property damage liability coverage while driving a scooter or moped as you would when operating a motorcycle. For example, a state may require a minimum of $25,000 in bodily injury per person, $50,000 in bodily injury per accident, and $25,000 of property damage per accident. You can choose to carry higher liability limits if the state minimum isn't enough to cover your assets. Find out the minimum motorcycle liability limits in your state.
Pro tip:
Get scooter insurance or moped insurance for as low as $75 per year.*
What are the differences in moped and scooter laws?
Different states view the legal classifications of mopeds and scooters differently. For instance, some states consider a moped to be any vehicle with an engine size of 50 cc or less. In some states anyone 15 years old or older can operate a moped if they have a learner's permit. Headgear and tags may or may not be required. And, in some states, mopeds can't be operated on a road that exceeds a certain speed limit.
Some states define a scooter as any vehicle with an engine greater than 50cc and less than 350cc. In many states a scooter must be registered, which means it must have a tag, and it must be street legal. Because states vary in their approach, check your local regulations regarding the scooter and moped laws in your area.
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