Motorized Bicycle Laws in North Dakota

Motorized Bicycles in North Dakota

Generic Court GavelThere 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 laws requirements are different for motorcycles.

Electric Bicycles

The State of North Dakota doesn’t seem to have any laws pertaining to electric bicycles. So, we’ll refer to federal laws.

According to federal law, e-bikes are defined as bicycles that have a motor that is no bigger than 750 watts, and can go no more than 20 MPH on level ground.

You don’t need a driver’s license to ride an electric bike according to federal law.

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.

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!