Sorry, you need to enable JavaScript to visit this website.

dmv

Department of Motor Vehicles
 

DC Agency Top Menu

-We are experiencing a system error that is causing duplicate refund checks to be issued to some DMV customers erroneously. If you have been affected by the glitch, to quickly resolve this matter please deposit or cash one check and destroy the other. If you attempt to cash the second check, it will not be honored by the bank.
We apologize to all DMV customers for the inconvenience as we diligently work to rectify this issue.

 

-DC DMV will no longer prevent DC residents from applying for a new or renewed driver license because of failing to meet the requirements of the Clean Hands Law.

-A +A
Bookmark and Share

Non-Traditional Motor Vehicles

Motor vehicles are defined as vehicles propelled by an internal-combustion engine, electricity or steam. All traffic laws apply to motor vehicles, motorized bicycles and other types of non-traditional vehicles except as identified in the applicable DC Code statute or regulation

Types of non-traditional vehicles

motor-driven cycleA motor-driven cycle has a seat or saddle and two or three wheels in contact with the ground and a gas, electric, or hybrid motor with a maximum piston or rotor displacement of 50 cubic centimeters, or its equivalent, with a maximum speed of 30 MPH (miles per hour).

 

 

motorized bicycleA motorized bicycle has a post-mounted seat or saddle for each person; two or three wheels (at least 16 inches in diameter) in contact with the ground; fully operative pedals for human propulsion; and a motor capable of a maximum speed of 20 MPH on level ground.  

 

 

MotorcycleA motorcycle has a seat or saddle and two or three wheels in contact with the ground, is not a motor-driven cycle or motorized bicycle and can go over 30 MPH.

 

 

 

For additional/uncommon non-traditional vehicle types, visit this chart [PDF].


Requirements for licensing and registering non-traditional vehicles like a motorcycle or motor-driven cycle

  • A driver license
  • Registration and license plate
  • Liability insurance
  • Helmet with a US Department of Transportation certification
  • A motorcycle endorsement from DC DMV if speed can exceed 30 MPH  

For a comprehensive list of requirements based on your type of vehicle, visit this chart [PDF].

Traffic safety requirements for non-traditional vehicles like a motorcycle or motor-driven cycle

Drivers of non-traditional vehicles must know and obey traffic laws.

Here are some tips to help keep you safe as a driver:

  • Do not travel in in bike lanes, trails or sidewalks (except to park outside of central business district).
  • Do not travel in bus lanes.
  • Do not drive on highways (for example, 395, 295, 695).

Proper driving skills

  • Focus on defensive driving.
  • Do not tailgate or let other vehicles tailgate you.
  • Avoid riding between lanes of slow moving or stopped traffic.
  • Ride in the part of the lane where it is most likely that you will be seen.
  • Don’t speed and avoid sudden braking or turning.
  • Pass only when it is safe to do so and do not pass or ride off the roadway.
  • Use signals when turning or changing lanes, always check the rearview mirrors—and make a head check, and don’t crowd the other vehicle when you pass.
  • Watch out for intersections, where collisions are more likely to occur.
  • Stay out of vehicles’ blind spots to stay visible.
  • Be extra cautious during inclement and wet weather and bad road conditions (gravel, wet leaves, uneven road, etc.) 

Proper clothing

  • Wear protective clothing—pants and long-sleeved jackets—with bright, reflective colors on your upper body.
  • Wear clean, unscratched, high-quality goggles or a face shield on your helmet for eye protection.
  • Use durable, comfortable gloves that allow a firm grip on the controls.
  • Wear solid shoes or boots without hanging laces that can get tangled.

Proper vehicle operation

  • Use your headlights, day and night. 
  • Use both brakes together, braking firmly and progressively.
  • Don’t drink and drive.

Downloadable Resources

Click on the flyers below to download what laws, how to legally driver a non-traditional vehicle in the District and traffic laws drivers must adhere to. Flyers are available in PDF format.

Non-Traditional Motor VehiclesNon-Traditional Motor Vehicles

Español (Spanish)                                                            Español (Spanish)

Contact TTY: 
711