The Indiana Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV) states that mopeds (motor scooters) must have a 2.0 brake horsepower rating and have an engine over 50cc (cubic centimeters) to be titled as a motorcycle. Otherwise the vehicle is treated as a motorized bicycle and will not be titled.

A motorized bicycle, commonly known as a “moped,” is distinguished under Indiana law by having no more than two-horse power, a cylinder capacity not exceeding 50 cubic centimeters, and an automatic transmission. Such a vehicle is not considered a “motor vehicle.”

Vehicles with engines exceeding these limits are motorcycles, and a person must meet the licensing requirements to operate such a vehicle legally. A manufacturer’s certificate of origin or a certificate of title, if any, to the vehicle will indicate whether such vehicle is a motorized bicycle or a motorcycle.

The following requirements apply to the operator of a motorized bicycle:

• An operator of a motorized bicycle must be at least 15 years of age.
• An operator of a motorized bicycle must have a valid driver license or have a current BMV issued identification card in his or her possession.
• A motorized bicycle may not be operated on an interstate highway or at a speed in excess of 25 miles per hour.
• If an individual is under the age of 18, they are required to wear protect headgear and protective glasses, goggles or transparent face shield.

Driving a motor vehicle without valid liability insurance is against the law in Indiana. A motorist who operates a vehicle without an automobile liability insurance policy is subject to a 90-day driver license suspension or a one-year suspension if it is a repeat violation within a three-year period.

In Indiana one has to buy a State minimum liability coverage of $25,000/$50,000/$10,000 for a motor vehicle, whether an automobile or motorcycle. These amounts stand for coverages one has to buy of:

• at least $25,000 worth liability coverage for bodily injury to 1 person.
• at least $50,000 worth liability coverage for all bodily injuries.
• at least $10,000 worth liability coverage for property damage.

The IN Department of Insurance notes that each newly written Indiana auto liability policy must include uninsured and under insured motorists coverages, unless you reject this in writing. Minimum liability limits are:

• Uninsured Motorists: Bodily Injury: $25,000/$50,000
• Property Damage: $10,000
• Under insured Motorists: Bodily Injury: $50,000

If your motor scooter is under 50cc it would appear that Indiana does not consider it to be a motor vehicle and thus does not need to be insured however you noted that your scooter was titled which means that perhaps your scooter may be considered a motorcycle. The IN BMV noted such an under 50 cc moped like vehicle is treated as a motorized bicycle and will not be titled so you should contact the BMV to clarify what your motor scooter is classified as and if insurance is needed on it or not since your vehicle is titled.

Some scooters may fall under the same restrictions as a motorized bicycle, while others may be considered a motorcycle in Indiana so there are different rules regarding your motor scooter depending upon how the IN BMV classifies it. If insurance is needed for it then you would have to get a policy that covers this specifically since your car insurance would not extend to the scooter without it being part of your policy.

If you need to put insurance on your motor scooter check with your auto insurance carrier to see if they offer this type of coverage and also shop around with us for motorcycle insurance to cover your vehicle.