Does your teen want to become more independent and drive a moped or motorized scooter? As a parent, even if you are not a moped or scooter driver yourself, you are responsible for giving your teen the proper guidance. You will have to provide your teen with explanations, rules to follow, and possible solutions to problems along the way.
Mopeds and scooters are often a person’s first experience driving a motorized vehicle on the road. Although this mode of transportation ensures a certain independence, it also exposes new drivers to the risk of being involved in an accident. First, young moped and scooter drivers generally have little experience on the road and may be prone to taking more risks. Second, they are not well protected and are sometimes difficult for other drivers to see. As a result, it is very important that they learn to share the road with other road users.
Your teen can take the Road Safety Education Program – Operating a Moped or Motorized Scooter driving course to learn basic techniques and how to drive a moped or scooter safely on the road. This 6-hour course includes a theoretical component as well as a closed-track practical component.
To obtain a licence to drive a moped or scooter, your teen requires your consent if he or she is a minor.
You must ensure that your teen obeys the rules that apply to driving a moped or scooter:
Find out more on the webpage about obtaining a moped or motorized scooter driver’s licence.
On a moped or scooter, young drivers can only rely on helmets and protective clothing to keep them safe from bodily injury. In the case of an accident or fall, protective gear helps avoid injuries or lessen their severity. It is important to always wear protective gear, even when the weather is hot. In addition, brightly coloured helmets and protective clothing, as well as reflective strips, can make moped and scooter drivers more visible.
In addition to the mandatory helmets, moped and scooter drivers and passengers should wear jackets, pants, gloves and footwear that are specially designed for riding a motorcycle.
Before buying a moped or scooter, or a helmet or protective gear, read our Buyer’s Guides to obtain more information and make the right choices.
Even if your teen is travelling independently by moped or scooter, your involvement shouldn’t stop there! As a parent, you know your teen best, including his or her temperament and maturity level. You can set the rules that you feel are most appropriate.
For example, you can set a curfew or forbid your teen from driving on certain roads. You can also help determine the safest routes to his or her destinations. Together, you can even sign a family contract.
“Hey mom, hey dad, I’m heading out on my moped.”
When your teen heads out, instead of only discussing the destination and return time, share some important and appropriate reminders for his or her outing. For example:
Did you know that cannabis is the drug that is most often detected in teens who are killed in accidents?
Traffic accidents are still one of the leading causes of death for young people aged 16 to 24 in Québec. Accidents occur more frequently in the evening, at night and on weekends. Encourage your teen to stay safe!
Last update: January 10, 2023
