• motor scooter #2 image by Aaron Kohr from Fotolia.com
  
  Due to increased gas prices and concern for the environment modes of transportation are evolving. A small portion of the American population has traded their cars for bikes or motorized scooters. Once regarded as unsafe or not a real vehicle, motorized scooters are now finding their place in society. If driven with caution and obeying traffic laws, a scooter can easily become a great mode of transportation.
  
  

Definition

• To fully understand Florida laws, it is important to define a scooter. The Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles states: "Motor Scooters are not defined in either Chapter 319 or 320 of the Florida Statutes. However, they fit the definition of a motorcycle as defined in section 320.01(27) Florida Statutes." Motorcycles, under section 320.01(27), are defined as "any 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, but excluding a tractor or a moped."
  
  Section 316.003(82) defines motorized scooters as "any 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, but excluding a tractor or a moped."
  
  

License

• To operate a motor scooter on public streets and roadways, one must be at least 16 years of age and hold a regular operator (Class E) or "motorcycle only" drivers license SS.322.03(1), 322.01(26) and 322.05(1), F.S.
  
  It is important to remember, "if the vehicle is powered by a motor with a displacement of more than 50 cubic centimeters, the operator must have a motorcycle endorsement."
  
  

Registration

• Mini scooters, mini/motor scooters, and mini motorcycles having a seat or saddle must be titled and registered in Florida. Motorized scooters are those without a saddle or seat. Motorized scooters cannot be titled and registered in Florida and are "not to be operated on the roadways or sidewalks," according to the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles.
  
  

Other Requirements

• No helmet is required to operate a scooter in Florida. However, local laws vary so it important to get this information before operating a scooter. The scooter must be street legal. Operating equipment such as headlights, brake lights and mirrors must be in accordance to Florida laws. Riding in between lanes on the highway is prohibited in the state of Florida. The operator must maintain a speed of 40 mph or higher on the interstate to avoid a traffic violation.