Below we have amassed the most commonly asked questions regarding mopeds, if there is anything you feel we have missed then please drop us a line and we’ll get it added.
What is a moped?
A moped in the UK is a motorcycle that has the following features:
- maximum design speed not exceeding 50 kilometres per hour (km/h) (about 31 miles per hour (mph)
- an engine capacity no greater than 50 cc
- it can be moved by pedal power, if the moped was first used before 1 September 1977
Who can ride a moped?
In the Uk mopeds can be rode from the age of 16 so long as you have a provisional moped license and have passed the Compulsory Basic Training (CBT). Once you have completed the training you will be issued with a DL 196 certificate and from this point you will be entitled to ride your moped as a learner with L-Plates, you will not be allowed to carry a pillion passenger or ride on motorways however.
If you have a car licence…
If you obtained your full car licence before 1 February 2001 you are automatically entitled to ride a moped without L-plates (D-plates in Wales).
If you obtained a full car licence after 1 February 2001 you must first complete a CBT course and obtain a DL 196 certificate to validate your entitlement.
What exactly does a CBT involve?
As a new rider, you are required by law to complete Compulsory Basic Training (CBT) before you can ride on L-plates. The CBT will introduce you to safety equipment and riding gear, basic machine control, and the concepts behind road safety. A qualified instructor will accompany you on a minimum of a two-hour road ride. Having reached a safe and proficient level of riding, you will receive a CBT certificate (DL196). This certificate is valid for two years, and allows you to ride displaying L-plates unaccompanied on the road.
You do have to pay for the course, and the cost can vary depending on a number of factors, eg. if you provide your own bike and helmet and which part of the country you are in.
Do i need insurance?
In order to ride on Britains roads you will need at least third party insurance cover
Do congestion charges apply to mopeds?
Absolutely Not!
Do i have to pay road tax?
Yes all mopeds must be taxed to ride on Britains roads, however the current rates are only £15 a year for a 50cc moped
Does a moped need a MOT?
Mopeds over 3 years old have to obtain an MOT test certificate to continue riding on the road.
