Whether you’re a seasoned rider wanting a 50cc to get from A to B, or perhaps you’ve just had your 16th birthday and are looking to gain some independence. Either way, 50cc bikes can be a great way for you to get up and running on the road.

In this blog, we are going to be going through everything you will need in order to ride a 50cc scooter or moped on UK roads…

So without further ado - let’s get into it!

Yes, to ride a 50cc moped on the road in the UK you will need a licence of some degree, but there are some caveats and variables along the way. 

Typically, to ride a <50cc on the roads, you will need to be a minimum of 16 years old, hold a provisional license, possess a valid CBT (Compulsory Basic Training) certificate, or have passed your practical driving test before the 1st February 2001.

If you have just turned 16 years of age, you will also be legally obliged to ride with L plates attached to the front and back of your bike until you reach 17 and have completed the practical and theory riding tests required to get your motorcycle licence.

Let me try and explain with a simple table...

Licence:	Details:
Provisional & CBT	16 Years Old: max 50cc at 28mph / 17 Years Old+ : 125cc at 14.7hp (11kw) *RENEWED EVERY TWO YEARS*
Car Licence (pre 1st Feb 2001)	AM Licence
Car Licence & CBT (after 1st Feb 2001)	AM Licence

The last, and arguably one of the most important things you will also need when riding on UK roads is moped insurance. Whilst third-party only coverage is the minimum legal requirement in the UK, there are two other levels of insurance to consider before setting up your policy - please note there is no right or wrong answer, it is whatever suits you and your situation the most!

The answer is yes. In the event that you are caught riding your moped without valid insurance by the police, you may recieve a fine, points on your licence, and or/prison time.

It is worth noting that if you get caught riding without insurance, when setting up a new policy this will have to be declared to your insurers, as well as if you have been refused insurance on your moped.

Unfortunately, When trying to determine how much moped insurance will cost, it will depend on a variety of factors including (but not limited to):

• Level of coverage chosen
• Age
• Where you live/ where the moped is stored
• Riding experience
• Occupation

If you want more information on this why not check out our how to get cheaper motorcycle insurance blog?

According to the official GOV.UK website, taxing your 50cc moped will cost you £25. However, there are exceptions if you own an electric moped, road tax will currently cost you £0*.

*Please note that electric mopeds and motorcycles are only exempt from paying road tax or VED (Vehicle Excise Duty) until 1st April 2025!

As we mentioned earlier, unless you passed your driving test before 1st February 2001, you will not be able to legally ride a 50cc moped on UK roads without a valid CBT and provisional/AM licence.

So there you have it, I hope you enjoyed my rundown on everything you need to know regarding needing insurance for your 50cc moped or scooter.

Last but not least if you do have your very own moped or scooter that you need to insure - make sure to get a quote direct with Lexham!