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Types of Mopeds in South Carolina (What qualifies as a Moped)
Under South Carolina law, Mopeds fall into their own category. To qualify, a vehicle must have an engine no greater than 50 cubic centimeters, or an electric motor with less than approximately 1,500 watts; an automatic transmission; and no more than 3 wheels. If your vehicle is larger or more powerful than that, it is classified as a motorcycle and therefore follows a completely different set of licensing and insurance rules. The classification of your vehicle affects everything from registering it to where you can ride it.
License Requirements: What You Must Have Before You Ride
Although a license is required to operate a moped in South Carolina, the requirements are relatively simple. Any valid driver’s license is acceptable. If you do not have a driver’s license, you may obtain a moped operator’s license, or Class G license, provided that you are at least 15 years old, pass a vision screening, and successfully complete a written knowledge test on the rules of the road.
All riders under the age of 21 are required to wear an approved helmet while riding a moped in South Carolina. For riders over 21 years of age, helmets are optional according to state law, however, state authorities highly recommend wearing one. Mopeds have almost no protective features in the event of a crash, and injuries to the head can be catastrophic.
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Registration & Title of a Moped
Registration of mopeds has been a requirement to operate on public roads in South Carolina since late 2018. When you register your moped, you receive a licence plate to attach to the back of your vehicle. You must display the licence plate anytime you ride your moped on a public road. You simply need to show proof of ownership, pay a small registration fee, and you will be registered.
The title of a moped is optional; however, many owners choose to title their mopeds for ease of sale or transfer of ownership at a future date. There is no annual county property tax to register a moped, unlike the annual property taxes that owners of larger vehicles must pay. Be sure to keep a copy of your proof of registration with you at all times and renew your registration each year to remain compliant. Failure to register your moped or failure to display your licence plate can result in citation(s) and/or fines.
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Mandatory Liability Insurance in South Carolina for Mopeds?
Do you need liability insurance to ride a moped in South Carolina? Simply put, no. According to South Carolina statute, mopeds are exempt from the mandatory liability insurance requirements that apply to automobiles and motorcycles. Although legislators have considered revising this exemption in the past, it remains intact as of early 2026.
That being said, skipping liability insurance may not always be a wise decision. Should you be involved in an automobile accident as a moped operator, causing injury to another person or damage to another party’s property, you will be liable for the costs of such damages. Studies conducted regarding moped and scooter crashes in surrounding states indicated that more than 90 percent of the riders involved were uninsured. Basic liability insurance provides financial protection against medical bills, repair costs, and attorney fees should you be involved in an accident. Even what may seem like a minor collision can quickly escalate into unforeseen expenses, particularly when the full extent of your injuries does not become apparent immediately. Therefore, whether you ride your moped frequently or rely upon it for daily transportation, purchasing at least basic liability insurance coverage is advisable.
Traffic Laws for Moped Operators
South Carolina has established specific traffic laws governing the operation of mopeds. Given that mopeds are intended to travel at average speeds of 30 miles per hour, moped operators are prohibited from traveling on highways with posted speed limits higher than 55 miles per hour, unless crossing an intersection. On multi-lane highways, moped operators must remain in the farthest right lane unless making a left-hand turn. Headlights and tail lamps must be illuminated at all times. Only passengers are permitted to ride on a moped that is designed for that purpose.
Cities, counties, and townships have the authority to enact additional traffic regulations beyond those mandated by the State of South Carolina. In April 2025, the city of Myrtle Beach enacted an ordinance requiring electric scooters and similar vehicles to utilize bike lanes, avoid sidewalk travel, and refrain from utilizing highways with posted speed limits greater than 30 miles per hour. Additionally, the city implemented a maximum speed limit of approximately 20 miles per hour and required that all vehicles be equipped with headlights, reflectors, and other safety devices prior to nighttime travel. If you plan to ride in multiple cities, be certain to review any local ordinances that may affect your riding.
Rental Mopeds and Tourist Safety in Myrtle Beach
Millions of tourists visit Myrtle Beach annually, and many of those tourists rent mopeds or electric scooters to travel along the boardwalk and beachfront roadways. The rentals are generally economical, convenient to park, and fun to ride. However, the increasing popularity of rentals has also led to an increase in accidents. In fact, local media reported a 100 percent-plus increase in rental scooter crashes in a single year. City officials attributed the increase to inexperienced riders and increased traffic volumes.
As a result of the increased incidents, Myrtle Beach has enacted a new ordinance requiring rental companies to provide helmets and safety briefings to customers and to direct customers to safer routes. South Carolina has not implemented a similar regulation on a statewide basis; however, municipalities have begun to address the issue with localized ordinances.
If you rent a moped during your vacation, take it seriously. Many tourists view riding a moped as part of the “fun” of visiting a beach resort, rather than a legitimate form of transportation on actual roadways shared with real traffic.
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(843) 361-7549Increased Risks Faced By Tourists
Most tourists who rent mopeds have little to no experience riding a moped. They are expected to navigate roads filled with automobiles, trucks, and buses in a foreign environment. Most tourists are unaware of the specific roads on which mopeds are permitted, the location of bike lanes, or the typical flow of traffic in a particular area.
In addition to the general hazards associated with riding a moped, beach resorts present unique challenges. Wet pavement from afternoon thunderstorms, loose sand on the roadway, and narrow roadways filled with parked automobiles create few opportunities for reaction time. Traveling at night can be hazardous as well, due to the lack of adequate lighting for pedestrians, bicycles, and mopeds.
By employing common-sense practices, tourists can minimize their risks. Wearing a helmet, regardless of whether you are required to do so, will help protect you in the event of a crash. Wearing bright or reflective clothing will improve your visibility to other motorists, bicyclists, and pedestrians. Avoiding nighttime travel whenever possible is also a good idea. Always follow the safety guidelines presented by the rental agency. Sticking to low-speed roads and light-traffic areas can help you to avoid the most hazardous conditions. And never ride a moped after consuming alcohol.
Reasons Behind Moped Crashes
One of the primary reasons behind moped crashes is distracted driving. A motorist who momentarily takes their eyes off the road to glance at their cell phone may not see a moped until it is too late. Driving impaired is another reason behind numerous moped crashes. Moped riders are extremely vulnerable to injury because they are unprotected by a vehicle.
Left-turn crashes occur frequently. A motorist attempting to cross oncoming traffic may misjudge a moped’s speed and turn directly into its path. Since mopeds are much smaller and slower than automobiles, motorists often believe they have more time to act than they really do.
Rear-end crashes occur when the following motorist does not realize how slowly a moped is traveling. Making sudden lane changes without checking your blind spots is also a major risk factor. Leaving a safe distance between yourself and the motorist following you, signaling, and checking your rearview mirror and side mirrors regularly can all help to minimize these risks.
Dooring is a hazard present anywhere there is street parking. A parked motorist may open a door without looking for oncoming vehicles, leaving the moped rider with no place to go. Riding a little farther away from parked automobiles can help to avoid this type of incident.
The condition of the roadway can also contribute to the likelihood of a moped crash occurring. Loose gravel, sand, water, and debris can all reduce traction. Using functioning lights on your moped and attaching reflective items to your moped can improve your visibility to other drivers, bicyclists, and pedestrians on the roadway.
What to Do Following a Moped Accident
Your health is your number one priority. Immediately call emergency services following a moped accident. It is essential that you seek immediate medical attention, even if you feel fine. Adrenaline can mask serious injuries, and establishing a medical history can prove valuable when pursuing compensation for injuries sustained in the accident. File a police report as soon as possible, in order to establish a formal record of the events surrounding the accident.
Take photographs of the scene of the accident, the moped, and any other vehicles involved in the accident. Obtain the contact information of any witnesses to the accident. Prior to speaking with the insurance representative for either you or the at-fault driver, do not agree to settle for any amount of money or discuss the accident in detail. Even though mopeds are exempt from liability insurance requirements in South Carolina, you may still be able to file a claim with the at-fault driver’s insurance policy or through your own uninsured motorist coverage. Maguire Law Firm can assist you in determining your options and aid you in seeking reimbursement for your medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. Photographs taken at the scene of the accident and a thorough medical history will support any claims you intend to make.
Why Buying Moped Insurance Is Still Worthwhile
Liability insurance provides payment for the injuries or property damage you may inflict upon another individual. Without liability insurance, you would be personally responsible for the costs incurred. Some insurance policies include medical payments coverage, which provides for your medical bills regardless of who was responsible for the accident. Collision and comprehensive insurance provide coverage for any damage to your moped resulting from accidents, theft, or fire.
It is also beneficial to consider obtaining uninsured motorist coverage. This coverage applies when a motorist who strikes you and has no insurance or insufficient insurance to compensate you for your medical expenses, lost wages, etc., this coverage kicks in to cover your medical expenses, lost wages, etc. Some auto insurance policies automatically provide this coverage for injuries sustained in an accident involving a moped. Contact your insurance provider to determine if this coverage is included in your current auto insurance policy.
Contact an insurance agent to learn what types of insurance are available to you, and select a policy that meets your needs based on how frequently you ride and how much risk you wish to assume.
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* Disclaimer: Past results do not guarantee future outcomes. “Free* consultation” or “Free* Case Evaluation” refers only to the initial evaluation of your case and does not imply that legal representation is free*. Clients may be responsible for costs in addition to the attorney’s fees. Percentage fees are calculated before deducting costs from the gross recovery. No comparison is intended or implied between Maguire Law Firm’s services and those of other lawyers. Testimonials and endorsements do not constitute a guarantee, warranty, or prediction regarding the outcome of your case. Attorney Ian Maguire, Office: 1601 North Oak Street, Myrtle Beach, SC 29577.
Last updated Wednesday, March 11th, 2026
