Moped road rules and restrictions

By the end of this topic you can

• You can name the places a moped must not be ridden.
• You can explain how speed limits apply to mopeds.
• You can list the restrictions on a learner moped rider.
• You can check a moped is legal to ride: tax, insurance, MOT and helmet.
• You can read bus lane signs to see whether mopeds may use them.

What you need to know and understand

• Motorways must not be used by provisional licence holders or by riders of motorcycles under 50cc (4 kW), which includes typical mopeds.
• You must not ride on a pavement or footpath, except to cross it to get lawful access to a property.
• You must not ride in a cycle lane marked by a solid white line during its times of operation.
• In a bus lane, only the vehicles shown on the sign may use it during its hours of operation.
• Learners must display L plates (L or D plates in Wales) and must not carry a passenger or tow a trailer.
• Rider and any passenger must wear a securely fastened helmet that meets the regulations.
• The moped must be taxed and insured, and needs an MOT once it is 3 years old.

Where you can and cannot ride

A moped is a motor vehicle, so it belongs on the road, not on pavements, footpaths or bridleways. You may use most ordinary roads, including dual carriageways, but not motorways. On fast dual carriageways a moped can be much slower than other traffic, so many riders choose a quieter route.

• Motorways: not allowed.
• Pavements, footpaths and bridleways: not allowed, except crossing to reach a driveway or property.
• Cycle lanes with a solid white line: not allowed during their hours of operation.
• Bus lanes: only if the sign shows a motorcycle symbol, or outside the hours shown.
• Cycle tracks: not allowed.

Speed limits on a 28 mph machine

Speed limits apply to mopeds just as they do to motorcycles, but your moped cannot go faster than about 28 mph. In 30 mph zones, or 20 mph in many built-up areas of Wales, you will often be at or near the limit. On 40, 50 and 60 mph roads you will be slower than most traffic, so ride well positioned, check mirrors often and expect to be overtaken. Never tamper with a moped to make it faster; it would then no longer be a moped and your licence and insurance may not cover it.

Temporary limits at road works and signs for low bridges or weight limits apply to you too. Our guides to UK speed limits and to road works and contraflows explain these in more detail.

Extra rules while you are a learner

R plates are not used in Great Britain. Licensing in Northern Ireland is run by the DVA and some rules differ, so riders there should check the DVA's own guidance.

1. Hold a provisional licence and a valid CBT certificate.
2. Display L plates front and rear (L or D plates in Wales).
3. Ride alone: no pillion passenger.
4. Do not tow a trailer.
5. Keep off motorways.
6. Pass your theory and practical tests within 2 years of CBT.

Common mistakes

• Riding on the pavement to skip traffic. It is illegal.
• Using any bus lane. Check the sign for a motorcycle symbol and the hours.
• Giving a friend a lift while on L plates. Learners must not carry passengers.
• Following a sat nav onto a motorway. Set it to avoid motorways.
• De-restricting a moped. It changes the vehicle category and can void insurance.

Test yourself: Moped road rules and restrictions

Answer each question, then read the explanation. Questions come in a random order each time.

Go deeper

• Less Common UK Road Signs
• Driving Through Road Works
• UK Speed Limits for Cars