Motorized Bicycles in North Dakota

There are many benefits to be had by using a motorized bicycle as your primary (or secondary) method of transportation. With rising gas prices, environmental concerns and a suffering economy, it's no wonder more and more people are choosing them over other options.

The state of North Dakota has slightly different requirements for mopeds and scooters. In both cases, however, it is important to know whether or not your bike is classified as a motorcycle, since the law's requirements are different for motorcycles.

Electric Bicycles (E-Bikes)

In North Dakota, e-bikes are classified into three classes based on their motor wattage and top assisted speed:

1. Class 1: E-bikes with a top assisted speed of 20 mph and a motor of 750W or less. These bikes are allowed on bike trails and paths unless otherwise posted.
2. Class 2: E-bikes with a motor that only provides assistance when the rider is pedaling, and ceases to provide assistance when the bike reaches 20 mph. These bikes are also allowed on bike trails and paths unless otherwise posted.
3. Class 3: E-bikes with a top assisted speed of 28 mph and a motor of 750W or less. These bikes are not allowed on bike trails and paths.

All e-bikes are required to have a visible, legible label indicating the class of the e-bike. Riders under the age of 14 must wear a helmet while riding an e-bike.

Mopeds

In order for your bike to be considered a moped in North Dakota, it must meet the following requirements:

• It must have 2 or 3 wheels.
• It must have pedals or a footrest.
• It must have a motor/engine, and a top speed of 30 mph on level ground.
• It must have an automatic transmission.
• It can't be wider than 32 inches.

Additionally, you are required to abide by the following requirements if you want to drive on public roads:

• You must be at least 14 years old and have a driver's license, or a motorized bicycle/instruction/temporary permit (motorcycle endorsement is not required.)
• You must get your moped registered and titled through the North Dakota Department of Transportation (NDDOT).
• You must carry liability insurance.
• You must wear a helmet at all times if under 18 years old (though it is still recommended if you are over 18.)
• You must obey all normal traffic laws, which can vary slightly depending on your city.

Moped Registration

When registering your moped, you should bring the following to your local DOT office:

• A manufacturer's Certificate of Origin (MCO), or the current title and registration documents signed over to you.
• An odometer certification.
• Proof of insurance.
• Cash or check to pay for the $25 registration fee (plus 5% tax.), plus an additional title fee of $5.

If you have any further questions, we recommend that you contact the Motor Vehicle Division, at (701) 328-2725.

Scooters

If your motorbike is a scooter rather than a moped, it must still meet the top speed requirements, otherwise it is classified as a motorcycle and must follow all of the motorcycle laws.

Scooter Registration

If your scooter is classified as an off-highway vehicle, then it does not need to be titled and registered (though it can't be driven on public roads.)

Aside from that, the main difference between the requirements for mopeds and scooters is that scooters are required to be inspected the first time they are titled.

Don't Have a Motorcycle License?

We've got you covered. Click the button below to see a list of e-bikes that don't require any license or registration to ride on public roads in North Dakota: