Idaho Scooter Laws

Get to Know the Scooter Laws in Idaho

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

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

• Motorcycle: Every motor vehicle having a seat or saddle for the use of the rider and designed to travel on not more than three wheels in contact with the ground.

• Motor bike: Means any self-propelled two wheeled motorcycle or motor-driven cycle, excluding tractor, designed for or capable of traveling off developed roadways and highways and also referred to as trail bikes, enduro bikes, trials bikes,motocross bikes or dual purpose motorcycles which are not originally manufactured for use on public roadways.

• Motor-driven cycle: Means a cycle with a motor thatproduces five brake horsepower or less as originally manufactured that meets federal motor vehicle safety standards as originally designed, and does not include mopeds.

• Motor scooter: A generic term, not defined in the Idaho traffic law manual, referring to a wide variety of motorized cycles and toys. A two or three-wheeled vehicle of any size, manufactured for use on public roadways and sold by a licensed dealer is probably a motorcycle. A vehiclewith two or more wheels not manufactured for use on public roadways and sold by retail variety stores is probably a toy.

Is a scooter driver's license required? Yes, any 2-wheeled vehicle requires a motorcycle endorsement in Idaho.

Is there a limitation as to size of scooter and license? No, as stated above, all 2-wheeled vehicles require a license to drive.

If a license is required, how do you get it? Do you need to take a written test? What about a skills test? Idaho scooter licensing regs require you to take both a written test (50 questions) AND a driving skills test to prove you know how to safely operate your scooter.

Is there any requirement for a skills class? For scooter riders under the age of 18, getting a passing certificate in a STARS skills class is a requirement for moving from learner's permit to full endorsement.

Does the scooter have to be registered? Yes, all 2-wheeled motorized vehicles must be registered and display a license plate in Idaho.

Is scooter insurance required? Yes, motorcycle/scooter insurance is required in Idaho.

Is there a yearly inspection regulation? At this time, there is only a yearly emissions test required for 4-wheeled motor vehicles.

Anything else you should know? Street legal vehicles must be able to travel at least 55 MPH to be allowed on expressways (interstate-type highways).

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