Moped Rules for Martha's Vineyard

Helmets and Goggles

• The regulation stating that all moped operators and passengers must wear a helmet was the first one specific to mopeds in Martha's Vineyard. The regulation has been amended to require that glasses or goggles be worn with only Department of Transportation (DOT) standard helmets. The DOT standard ensures that the helmet meets or exceeds the safety requirements outlined by the government.

RMV Stickers

• A moped sticker, issued by the Registry of Motor Vehicles (RMV), must be affixed to the moped where it is visible to other drivers. These stickers are issued once a vehicle has met the criteria of being an approved moped. Those criteria are as follows:

  * The moped must have a cylinder capacity of no more than 50 cubic centimeters.

  * The moped must have an automatic transmission.

  * The moped must have a maximum speed of no more than 30 miles per hour.

  * The moped must comply with all applicable federal motor vehicle safety standards.

Traffic Laws

• Moped operators are required to obey traffic laws, as set by the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. Mopeds are allowed on public roads and in some bicycle lanes, but moped operators must always abide by all signage and traffic lights. Mopeds must also obey all posted speed limits, but cannot exceed 25 miles per hour.

Driver's License and Permits

• Moped operators must carry a valid license or permit, any time they are driving a moped. A valid license does not have to be issued by the sate of Massachusetts, but it must be equivalent to one, and not expired. All Martha's Vineyard moped rental companies require a valid license before they will rent you a vehicle.

Shoes

• It's tempting to wear sandals on the way to the beach, but it's against the rules while you're on a moped. Closed toe shoes are required wear for both moped operators and passengers. This is a common rule, enforced by all Martha's Vineyard moped rental companies. Privately owned mopeds do not fall under this rule.

Drugs and Alcohol

• Laws regarding alcohol and drugs also apply to all moped operators in Martha's Vineyard. Alcohol is limited by Massachusetts standards and narcotic use is strictly forbidden, both under penalty of law.