Modern Vespa

I live in Northern Virginia. I'm looking at purchasing a mp3 500 in the near future. I do not have my motorcycle license yet. Here's my question.

In the state of Virginia, I need to pass the written test, then take the skills course(road test). As you all know the mp3 is automatic so it doesn't need to change gears and what not. How do I use this scooter for the test drive? I can't buy the scooter and drive it home (no license)

Any suggestions?

I'm not sure if you're asking how to use the scoot to practice or whether or not you'll be able to pass because the scooter is automatic, so I'll try and answer both:

1. If you need a practice vehicle...the best thing to do is to sign up for a local MSF course. This course costs around $250, but it has several HUGE advantages:
a. It provides a practice motorcycle(knowing how to shift is not a bad thing in any case)
b. It reduces your insurance rates on the scoot because its an official training session.
c. It EXEMPTS YOU from the road test.
d. It makes sure you know how to deal with dangerous situations and is overall a great course to take.
That would be my strong suggestion. If this is impossible, do like some do and find a small out of the way road area or parking lot and practice there. Set up cones and different routes to practice on. There are some forum posts on this.

2. If you're asking if they'll let you take the road test, then the answer is most likely yes. Many of us have, and I've never heard of an instructor/officer not letting someone take it because its an automatic. Know that you will still need to know some things about shifting on the written test such as where the clutch is located and which foot controls the gears...basic stuff. I took my road test and to be honest, if you're like most of us, you'll be too busy answering questions about the mp3 for them to really care how well you do. Good luck, and keep us updated!

I don't know the DMV rules for your state, but in California since the Mp3 has 3 wheels a motorcycle endorsement is not required.

I bought my scooter before I got my license. I did practice in the neighborhood at a school working on one Sunday no one there. Then I went and took the motorcycle course and got my license. After but I had to ride one of their motorcycle which was 250cc. When you first start out riding its easier on the motorcycle then it is on the scooter but I'm glad I did. I took my course at Bayside Harley Davis Portsmouth Virginia. So it's good to get your license first then go get the scooter and have some fun. I hope this helped you out. Cost 125.00 Kenny


PS-you have to get your motorcycle license in Virginia

You can use your bike for the riding part of the test at the dmv.
Apply for your learners at the DMV....I think it's 20 questions.
You can ride on the road with the learners as long as you have
someone riding along with you that is licensed.

If I were you I would probably just sign up for the closest Motorcycle
Safety Course. Once passed you can take the paper they give you
to the DMV and they will add the M endorsement on your driving permit.

Jayknife is right best thing to do. If I didn't take the course would probably be hurt by now. Just when you think you know everything you don't. Good course

Yes, take the BRC....use their scoot or motorcycle (why take a chance marring yours up) pass the Written and "E-Val" riding test....get card saying you passed then go down to MV office with it, to add cycle endorsement to drivers license. Good luck to ya!

I suggest getting your permit then take the MSF. I live in CA but still got my permit in case some cop pulls me over and has an issue with the 3 wheel issue.

I took the MSF but felt not ready for the test which they said I can take anytime for free.

Get the permit to at least practice on a bike legally.

You can have them deliver your bike if that's an option. Test rides are rare unless they have a demo bike like mine did.

I took the MSF not to get the license but rather to get the DOD decal for riding on base. If you are retired military, DOD employee, contractor, or service member you can take the course on base at no cost. And since its required to be MSF certified to get a DOD decal they will pay you to attend, you do not have to take annual leave to attend. Good training I've had my M1 endorsement for 25 years and still picked up new tips.

Don't know if this helps, But this is an MSF response. I am sure the elders have posted this before. My apologies..

Go to the DMV and get your lerner's, just to be safe. The local community colleges in VA usually host the MSF courses, about $90 (counts as a 1 credit course). Take the course and get your permit, then practice a lot in parking lots. The DMV road test is a beast; actually made to be super difficult to convince people to take the MSF course. The state if VA owns the MSF bikes--granted, the bikes aren't great, but they are not yours if you drop it. Also, the bikes are 250cc and are not intimidating to new riders. Some Harley dealers--I know around Richmond--offer their own courses, but at around $300 and they use 400cc Buells.