Registering Motorcycles and Mopeds in Texas

You must register motorcycles and mopeds, so, let’s first make sure what you have is a motorcycle or moped.

According to Texas law, a motorcycle is defined as a motor vehicle other than a tractor that is equipped with a rider's saddle and designed to have no more than three wheels on the ground when propelled.
 
A vehicle is considered a moped if it is a motor﷓driven cycle that cannot attain a speed in one mile of more than 30 miles per hour, has an engine that can't produce more than two-brake horsepower, and connects to a power drive system that does not need the operator to shift gears.

To register your motorcycle or moped for the first time, you will need to visit a TX Department of Transportation (DOT) County Tax Assessor's office or an approved subcontractor station. However, the motorcycle registration renewal process can be completed by mail or online if you meet specific eligibility criteria.

The general process for registering your motorcycle in that state of Texas is the same process you would follow for any other vehicle registration. You will need to provide:

• Proof of your identity.
• Proof of legal ownership.
• A safety inspection certificate obtained at an official inspection station.
• Proof of a valid liability insurance policy for your motorcycle.

The annual registration fee for motorcycles and mopeds is $30.30. There are also certain local taxes and registration fees that will vary according to your county of residence. You must keep up with the registration in order to keep your motorcycle riding legal.

Gasoline or Battery-Powered Scooters

One thing to keep in mind when planning to register vehicles in Texas is that gasoline or battery-powered scooters, also known as pocket bikes or toy motorcycles, generally can't pass the vehicle safety inspection that is required for them to be registered or driven on public roads. Therefore, it is legal to operate a scooter on public property only.