Helpful info on riding and renting scooters

Scooters are increasingly popular on the beach and throughout the Tampa Bay area. Find out some of the basic rules for scootering and where you can rent one:

By JAY CRIDLIN
Published August 12, 2005

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Fast facts

* In order to drive a scooter, you need a standard Class E driver's license and a motorcycle tag and registration. For scooters with engines larger than 50ccs, you'll need a motorcycle endorsement on your license, which entails a skills test or, if you're over 21, a written test.

* Helmet laws for scooters aren't all that different than those for motorcycles. If you're under 16 and a passenger, you must wear a helmet. If the scooter's engine is 50cc or less, drivers 16 and older are not required to wear one. If the engine is larger than 50cc, drivers must wear a helmet through age 21, at which point they can remove it if they have proof of medical insurance.

* Liability insurance is not required for motorcycle and scooter drivers in Florida - unless you cause an accident. In that case, not only will you be financially responsible, you might also lose your license, tags and registration. Many insurers, such as Geico and Progressive, will insure 50cc-plus scooters for $100 and up per year.

A few beach-area places that offer scooter rentals

* Transportation Station, 652 S Gulfview Blvd., Clearwater, (727) 443-3188

* Island Breeze Scooter Rentals, 6380 Gulf Blvd., St Pete Beach, (727) 360-1991

* Scooters on the Isles, 12930 Gulf Blvd., Madiera Beach, (727) 204-9002

* Island Marine, 11045 Gulf Blvd., Treasure Island, (727) 367-2132

- Jay Cridlin cridlin@tampabay.com