Non-compliant motorcycles, mopeds and scooters prohibited
As of July 30, 2024, a ministerial order prohibits the operation on public roadways of motor vehicles that:
- resemble motorcycles, mopeds or scooters
AND
- do not bear a certification mark indicating that they comply with Canada Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (CMVSS)
Prohibition order No. 2025-15 has many benefits:
Improved road safety:
- Due to the size of these vehicles and the speeds they can reach, they are a hazard to vulnerable road users on sidewalks and bikeways. In addition, these vehicles cannot be operated on the road network since they do not have CMVSS certification attesting that they are safe.
Fairness toward owners and drivers of regulation motorcycles, mopeds and scooters who fulfil their obligations:
- To be authorized to drive regulation motorcycles, mopeds or scooters on the road network, owners must register their vehicle and hold a civil liability insurance policy that covers property damage. Drivers must also hold the appropriate class of licence.
Compliance with the Highway Safety Code and Transport Canada requirements:
- Non-compliant new vehicles are prohibited from being sold in Québec and cannot be imported into Canada because they bear no certification indicating that they comply with the standards in force.
On some of these noncompliant vehicles equipped with an electric motor, auxiliary pedals have been installed close to the back wheel. The fine for operating a prohibited vehicle on a public roadway is from $300 to $600.
Similar electric motorcycles, mopeds and scooters with compliance labelling are on the market. These vehicles can be registered with the SAAQ for road use.
These vehicles can be legally operated on the road network if they comply with the standards in force.
For more information
Frequently asked questions regarding non-compliant motorcycles and mopeds/scooters