Safety -
Motorized Scooters & Pocket Bikes

Motorized Scooter Defined:
The California Vehicle Code defines a motorized scooter as any two-wheeled device that has handlebars, is designed to be stood or sat upon by the operator, and is powered by an electric motor that is capable of propelling the device with or without human propulsion. A device meeting this definition that is powered by a source other than electrical power (e.g. a gasoline-powered, two-stroke engine) is also a motorized scooter (407.5 CVC).

Do you Know the Rules?
A person operating a motorized scooter is not required to be licensed but must be at least 16 years of age. The operator is not subject to the provisions of the vehicle code relating to financial responsibility, registration, and license plate requirements. Every person operating a motorized scooter upon a highway has all the rights and is subject to all applicable rules of the road to ensure the safety of the operator and others.

What is a Pocket Bike?
These mini-motorcycles have roots in Europe as entry-level to the full size GP motorcycle racers. They range in size from 1’4” to 2’2” and are priced from $300 to over $3000 for a race ready bike. Owners manuals clearly state that they are intended for use on closed tracks. Unfortunately, these bikes are being mass marketed as “scooters."

Don't get taken for a ride... The Laws!
Since pocket bikes are considered motor-driven cycles in the Vehicle Code, they must be registered and insured to be used on the street. The driver must have an endorsement for a motor-driven cycle on their license and wear a DOT motorcycle helmet.

View the Milpitas Police Department information Pamphlets for more on Motorized Scooters and Pocket Bikes:

• Scooter Pamphlet
• Pocket Bike Pamphlet