City officials remind us that many of the scooters seen on our streets need to be licensed as a motorcycle.

Beginning next month, scooter riders could find out the hard way.

There is a common misconception that the size of the motor is the only factor that distinguishes between a scooter and a motorcycle.

There are several other factors.

Most scooters fail to meet the motorized bicycle requirement due to one or more of the following:

• Lack “foot pedals to permit muscular propulsion”
• Motor over 50 cubic centimeters
• More than three gross brake horsepower
• Capable of exceeding thirty miles an hour on a level road surface

If the scooter fails any of these requirements, it may qualify as a motorcycle and could be licensed and used on the roadway; it may not be operated unlicensed on the road.

To drive a scooter or moped, you must have a motorcycle endorsement on your driver’s license and wear a helmet.

Beginning in November, the St Joseph Police Department traffic unit will begin aggressive enforcement for these violations. This time frame will allow owners to license and insure their vehicles and get properly outfitted for operating a motorcycle.