If you’re considering a moped to easily cruise through city streets or avoid high gas prices, it’s important to understand the Illinois law before you make the purchase. A common question we hear is: Do you need a license for a moped in Illinois? In most cases, yes, you need a driver’s license.
Let’s explore the full rules, license requirements, and what separates a moped from a scooter or motorcycle under Illinois law.
What Is a Moped Under Illinois Law?
In Illinois, a moped is defined as a two or three-wheeled vehicle that:
- Has a combustion engine no larger than 50cc
- Does not require gear shifting
- Cannot exceed 30 mph on level ground
As long as your moped meets these conditions, it’s considered a motorized pedal cycle, not a motorcycle or scooter—even though today’s mopeds don’t actually have pedals.
Do You Need a License for a Moped?
Yes, you need an Illinois license to drive a moped, but not specifically a motorcycle license.
In Illinois, you may legally operate a moped with any valid Illinois driver’s license, including a standard Class D license. You do not need a Class M or Class L motorcycle license as long as the vehicle stays within moped specifications (under 50cc, no shifting, max 30 mph).
However, if your vehicle exceeds those specs, it’s no longer a moped. For example:
- If it has an engine under 150cc, it’s a motor-driven cycle → Requires a Class L motorcycle license
- If it has an engine of 150cc or more, it’s a motorcycle → Requires a Class M license
Do Mopeds Need Registration and Plates in Illinois?
Yes. Like all motor vehicles in Illinois, mopeds must be:
- Titled and registered
- Insured with liability coverage
- Equipped with a valid license plate
Even though they’re smaller than motorcycles or cars, mopeds are still treated as motor vehicles for legal purposes in Illinois. Failing to register or insure one can lead to penalties and fines.
Do You Need Insurance For a Moped?
Yes. All mopeds operated on public roads in Illinois must be insured with a liability policy. Even at slower speeds, a crash can cause damage or injury, and having the right insurance protects you legally and financially.
Safety Requirements For Mopeds
If you’re riding a moped, Illinois law also requires you to follow certain equipment and safety standards:
- If riding at night, you must have a working headlight visible from at least 500 feet
- A rear taillight visible from 100 to 600 feet
- If you carry a passenger, the moped must have a second seat and footrests
- All riders must obey traffic signs, signals, and general moped rules of the road
Riders under 18 are strongly encouraged to wear a DOT-approved helmet, even though it’s not required by law for adults.
What About Scooters and Low-Speed Electric Scooters?
Scooters with internal combustion engines over 50cc or that require shifting gears are classified as motor-driven cycles or motorcycles in Illinois. These require Class L or M licenses and must meet stricter registration, insurance, and licensing standards.
Low-speed electric scooters (under 100 lbs, top speed 10 mph, no combustion engine) do not require a license but can only be used where allowed by the local city or park district. You must be at least 18 years old, and only one rider is allowed. These are more like shared e-scooters and are not street-legal on faster roadways.
Get Road-Ready with Help from WSCE
At West Suburban Currency Exchanges (WSCE), we make the legal side of owning a moped simple. Whether you’re registering a new moped, renewing plates, or transferring a title, we’ll help you get it done—fast.
With over 25 locations across the Chicago area, WSCE is your trusted partner for:
- Vehicle title and registration
- License plate renewals
- Bill payment services
- And much more
Don’t let paperwork slow you down. Visit your nearest location today—and let us help you get back on the road, legally and confidently.
