House Research Department

Updated: October 2008

Low-Power Vehicles

Page 12

maximum wheel size of motorized foot scooters from 10 to 12

inches, which effectively eliminated pocket bikes from the

motorized foot scooter classification. Before the changes,

motorized foot scooters had been defined based on having a small

wheel size or a modest top speed, which meant that the category

included many pocket bikes.

Since most pocket bikes are no longer treated as a type of motorized foot scooter, it is likely that

they can no longer be legally operated on public roads. Some pocket bikes may fit within the

motorized bicycle classification while others will be treated as motorcycles, but will not be able

to be registered (see the section Identifying the Type of Vehicle for more information).

Regulations

Minnesota law treats motorized foot scooters like bicycles, meaning that operators have the same

rights as bicyclists and must generally follow the same laws. Minn. Stat. § 169.225.

A motorized foot scooter does not need to be registered, and a certificate of

Registration

title is not necessary.

A driver's license or permit is not required for operation. The minimum

Licensing

operator age is 12 years old.

The device does not need to be insured.

Insurance

A motorized foot scooter may not be operated on a sidewalk, except to

Operation

cross it. The device can be operated on a bicycle path, bicycle trail, bicycle

lane, or bikeway unless (1) the pathway is reserved for nonmotorized use,

or (2) operation is restricted by local government.

Operators must ride as close as is practical to the right-hand side of the

road, and must follow the same traffic laws as bicyclists. This includes a

requirement that when making a left turn, the rider must dismount and

cross the roadway on foot (the person is then subject to any restrictions

applicable to a pedestrian).

No passengers besides the operator can be carried.

Any person under age 18 must wear a helmet.

Safety equipment

The device can be operated when it is dark out, but under current

Department of Public Safety regulations it must meet the same lighting

requirements that apply to a bicycle: a headlight that is visible at least 500

feet ahead and a red reflector that can be seen from 600 feet behind when in

the path of a motor vehicle's headlight.