Laws Pertaining to Motorized Scooters, Mopeds and Motorized Bicycles: "Pocket Bikes" and "Miniature Motorcycles"

Recently, with the popularity of "miniature motorcycles" and "pocket bikes" growing, the Brewer Police Department has received an increasing number of questions regarding these vehicles. There is a misconception among some that these vehicles do not need to be registered. Though this may be true in a few cases, it generally is not.

Maine motor vehicle law defines mopeds, motorized scooters, and motorized bicycles separately. The laws vary for each vehicle, but two facts remain constant:

1. An operator's license is REQUIRED to operate all scooters and mopeds on a public way.
   All mopeds, as well as many scooters, must be registered.
2. Typically, the vast majority of "pocket bikes" are legally mopeds. This means that, to be operated on a public way, they must be registered as mopeds and driven by a licensed operator. Therefore, no one under the age of 16 can ride these on a public way.

There has been a nationwide trend of citizen complaints regarding "pocket bikes." Generally, the complaints are initiated because of operator abuses. It is important to remember that these machines are not toys and are not meant for children. The Brewer Police Department takes pride in our reputation for keeping our streets safe through vigorous traffic law enforcement. Enforcement of existing laws regarding "pocket bikes" will be no exception.

Please drive safely and remember that abusing these machines may result in additional legislation.

For a more complete description of these laws, visit the Bureau of Motor Vehicles website here.