Scooter licence, price, exam and registration
Vehicles such as scooters (some are referred to as “moped,” because they are a scooter that can also be propelled with pedals) are very popular with young people. Many adults enjoy them too, whether it’s to get around the city easily, to save on gas or simply for pleasure! It must be remembered, however, that they are full-fledged vehicles, and their use is governed by a number of regulations.
What is a scooter?
A scooter is a two- or three-wheeled passenger vehicle with a maximum speed of 70 km/h. A scooter is equipped with an electric motor or a combustion engine with a cylinder capacity not exceeding 50 cubic centimetres (cc), as well as an automatic transmission.
Do I need a licence to drive a scooter and what is the minimum age?
To drive a scooter on public roads, you must be at least 14 years old and hold a Class 6D licence - same for electric bikes if your are under 18 years old. Holders of a driver’s licence or probationary licence of any class (except Class 8) may also drive this type of vehicle.
How can I get a scooter driver’s licence?
The conditions for obtaining a Class 6D licence are as follows:
- Be at least 14 years old (parental authorization required if the person is a minor);
- Successfully complete the Road Safety Education Program – Operating a Moped or Motorized Scooter driving course at an accredited driving school (6 hours total);
- Pass the SAAQ exam with a mark of at least 75% (as well as the vision test);
- Pay the exam fees and the price of the driver’s licence.
Rules for driving a scooter (demerit points and alcohol)
If you have less than 5 years of driving experience with a Class 6D licence:
You must comply with the zero-alcohol rule.
You must have less than 4 demerit points on your record.
If you have 5 or more years of scooter driving experience:
You must comply with the zero-alcohol rule until age 22.
You are subject to the intermediate demerit point bracket, that is:
under age 23: 8 points
ages 23 and 24: 12 points
age 25 and older: 15 points
The scooter driver’s licence must be renewed each year. When driving your scooter, you must always have your valid driver’s licence on you, as well as the registration certificate and proof of insurance for the vehicle.
A scooter driver must wear a helmet that is compliant with safety standards, with a visor or protective glasses. Wearing full protective equipment is also advisable when riding.
Restrictions and obligations for drivers and owners of a scooter
Regardless of their age, all scooter riders must wera a protective helmet that meets the standards.
Insurance is not required for 50cc or smaller scooters with a maximum speed of 32 km/h and not used on public roads. However, third-party liability insurance is recommended, as is insurance to protect the scooter and its accessories against theft, hail, fire, etc.
If you use your 50cc or smaller scooter on public roads, you are obliged to register and insure it.