Motorized Bicycle Laws in Louisiana

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Motorized Bicycles in Louisiana

Generic Court GavelBicycling is a good alternative method of transportation. Mopeds and scooters are a good way to save money on gas, but they have different regulations in Liousiana. It’s important to know the OMV’s (Office of Motor Vehicles’) regulations for riding, and know what your motorbike is classified as, since there are different laws for each.

Electric Bicycles

The State of Louisiana doesn’t have laws in place for e-bikes, so we’ll refer to the federal laws.

According to federal law, an e-bike is defined as a bicycle that has a motor that is no bigger than 750 watts, and has a maximum speed of 20 MPH.

Although you don’t need a driver’s license according to federal law, you must be at least 16 years old.

Mopeds

It Louisiana, in order for a bike to be considered a motorized bicycle or moped, rather than a moped, scooter or motorcycle, it must:

  • Have pedals that are designed to be used by the driver to assist with propulsion.
  • Have a motor that can produce no more than 1.5 brake horsepower, and if gas powered, is no bigger than 50 cc.
  • Has an automatic transmission.
  • Be unable to go more than 25 mph on a flat surface.

You must have a valid Louisiana driver’s license to drive a moped, and you are not allowed to drive on interstate highways, sidewalks or footpaths. If you are between 15 and 16 years old, then you must be within 3 miles of your home while driving, unless you have a parent or guardian with you.

Interestingly, while you do need a driver’s license to drive a moped, you do not need one for motorcycles or scooters that have less than 5 hp.

All motorized vehicles are required to be registered. To register, you will need to bring the following items to the OMV:

  • Proof of insurance.
  • A bill of sale for your vehicle.
  • Title or certificate of origin.
  • An odometer reading.
  • Evidence of security of interest (form UCC-1 or equivalent.)

Titling your moped costs $18.50, plus an additional handling fee of $8, and additional taxes based on your location and purchase price of your moped. You must pay all fees with cash, check or money order (credit cards are not accepted.)

For further inquiries, we suggest contacting your local OMV at (225) 925-6146.

Scooters

Unfortunately, the state of Louisiana does not allow scooters to be used on public roads. They don’t have to be registered, but they are allowed to be used as a viable means of transportation.

According to the state of Louisiana, they do not meet the required safety-equipment standards, so you will have to stick to other vehicles, such as motorized bikes.

Want a Motorized Bicycle?

We have a great selection of motorized bicycles for sale! While we recommend getting an e-bike, we also have motorized bicycle kits for sale and bicycle accessories for sale. All of our listings are highly reviewed, as you will see for yourself!