Modern Vespa

To ride a 2003 Piaggio Vespa ET2

I don't live in Cali, but I'd bet you do. And insurance. And registration. And plate. At least you would in AZ

Yes. You need your M1 endorsement.

Strictly speaking, a person *COULD* ride without one, as the plastic card doesn't denote ability to do something.

But it's illegal and likely to land you in a heap of trouble especially if in a collision, because fault would almost entirely land on you for being on it in the first place when you weren't legally permitted.

https://www.dmv.ca.gov/portal/handbook/motorcycle-handbook/license-requirements/

Get your endorsement.

Thanks 🙏

look up the closest CHP motorcycle safety class via https://motorcyclesafetyca.com/. you'll end up satisfying the DMV endorsement and gain a lot more skills. I did it as a returning rider, thought I knew my stuff, and ended up learning a lot more as a result. If I'm not mistaken, a participant brought their own scooter and did the road parts on it rather than the supplied 200/250 cc motorcycles, so that may be of interest to you.

Taking the safety class was the best thing I have ever done. Learned many lessons that saved my butt numerous times. And because it lowered by insurance considerably it even paid for itself over time.

not to mention, it saves you from having to ride the odd course in the DMV parking lot. Even on a scooter, that could be a bit nerve-wracking.

I wouldn't know I've never had to ride the DMV course

You can take the written test & then take the driving test within the next year.
If you take the practical at the dmv, dragging the back brake to makes it easier to do the circle. My wife went to the local dmv & practiced after hours. I also had used chalk & a string to make a 20ft circle in a church parking lot

Yes, even for a 50cc. MSF course will get you a certificate to take to the DMV. Not ride test required. IIRC.

Yep - this is the way. I did the course at Golden State Moto in San Jose - two evening Zoom sessions and two long mornings on the bike. More expensive, but much more useful and less stressful than just showing up at the DMV and riding round their course!