Traffic Regulations for Mopeds and Light Quadricycles (AM)
Who and what
AM covers mopeds - two- or three-wheeled vehicles with a maximum design speed up to 45 km/h and an engine up to 50 cc if petrol, or limited power if electric - and light quadricycles up to 425 kg unladen, 50 cc, 45 km/h. The minimum age is 16, and a category AM licence is required. A helmet is compulsory on mopeds; in light quadricycles, seat belts must be used.
Where you may ride
Mopeds ride on the roadway, as far right as is safe, not on pavements or pedestrian areas. Motorways and roads signposted for motor traffic only are off limits. Where a cycle lane exists, rules on whether mopeds may use it depend on the sign - read it. Carrying a passenger is allowed only if the vehicle is designed and approved for one and the rider holds the right licence.
Rules that surprise riders
A moped must not tow or be towed. Riding with no hands, or carrying a load that impairs control, is prohibited. Overtaking must be done with a safe lateral gap, especially when passing cyclists and pedestrians. At night and in poor visibility, lights are mandatory. Alcohol limits apply exactly as for car drivers - there is no relaxed limit for mopeds.
Traps
Questions blur the boundary between moped and motorcycle (over 45 km/h or over 50 cc is A1/A2 territory, not AM). Another trap is age and licence: 16 for AM, and a learner may ride only within the conditions of the licence. Watch for questions about motorway use - mopeds are never permitted there.
Rule of thumb
If it exceeds 45 km/h or 50 cc, it is not an AM vehicle - check the category before answering.