Arizona Scooter Laws

Get to Know the AZ Motor Scooter Laws

Each state is different, so don't assume that because Connecticut doesn't require licensing of scooters 50cc and smaller, that Arizona doesn't either. This page will give you a brief introduction and overview of the motor scooter laws for Arizona. Then, at the end of the page, you'll find a link for more detailed information on the Arizona scooter laws.

In terms of the motorcycle endorsement I mentioned above, what that means is that in addition to a driver's license (which is almost always going to be a prerequisite to getting a motor scooter license), you get an add-on endorsement to that license that allows you to drive a motorcycle or other 2-wheeled motorized vehicle like a gas scooter.

So, for instance, I got my motorcycle endorsement in Idaho by driving a 125cc scooter. But I could now go out and buy a big-a** Harley Davidson and ride that too if I wanted. (Not that I could handle a Harley with my little short legs and diminutive frame... but still, you know what I mean, right?)

Overview of Arizona Scooter Laws

First, it's important to understand the definitions in Arizona for the following terms:

• Motorcycle:

• Motor-driven cycle:

• Motorized bicycle:

None of these terms are specifically defined in the Arizona regulations, from what I could find, although they are in most other states. So I might be missing it. Although Arizona mentions both motorcycles and motor-driven cycles in their manual, they don't differentiate between them. But, as you'll see below, they do treat different size scooters in different ways.

Is a scooter driver's license required? To drive a motorcycle in Arizona, you need a motorcycle endorsement plus a driver's license.

Is there a limitation as to size of scooter and license? (According to one of my Arizona readers, JJ): An "M-Class" license is required for any street-going vehicle with fewer than 4 wheels that does not have functioning pedals. There is no provision for under 50cc scooters. Also, when you take your skills test, you will get a "J restriction" on your license if your test bike is less than 100cc. This limits you to being able to ride 100cc or lower scooters or motorcycles. If your test bike is greater than 100cc, you can ride anything on two (or three) wheels. Mopeds (with working pedals) do not require special licensing, but they are restricted to 35 MPH.

If a license is required, how do you get it? Do you need to take a written test? What about a skills test? Everyone who wants to apply for a motorcycle endorsement must pass a written test based on the Arizona motorcycle manual. Teens under the age of 18, but over age 16, must hold a learner's permit for 5 months in order to apply for a motorcycle endorsement. In addition, he/she must have passed a certified skills training program or have a parent's documentation in writing of at least 25 hours of driving practice on the motorcycle or scooter.

Is there any requirement for a skills class? See above re: teens; adults must pass a skills test and it looks like a skills class is highly recommended.

Does the scooter have to be registered? Yes

Is scooter insurance required? Yes

Is there a yearly inspection regulation? Unknown

Anything else you should know? Arizona drivers' licenses are issued to last till age 65, but a photo and eye test must be done every 12 years. JJ also writes, "One problem in AZ is that scooter dealers, police, and DMV workers are often unaware of what the rules are, and so information is often contradictory and hard to find." Helmets are not required for riders over the age of 17.

For more information on Arizona scooter laws and the motor scooter license regulations, visit: