What is a Moped Under Turkish Traffic Law? Under the Turkish Highway Traffic Regulation published by the General Directorate of Highways (KGM), a moped is legally classified as a 'motorlu bisiklet'. It is defined as a two- or three-wheeled vehicle with a maximum speed not exceeding 45 km/h. For internal combustion engines, the cylinder capacity is capped strictly at 50 cc. Electric versions must not exceed a maximum continuous rated power of 4 kW. Any two-wheeled vehicle exceeding these limitations is legally categorized as a motorcycle (motosiklet) and is subject to completely different registration, tax, and licensing rules. This exact distinction is a frequent topic in Turkish driving theory exams. ## Licensing Requirements: The Class M License To ride a moped on public roads in Türkiye, you must hold at least a Category M driving license. The minimum age requirement to obtain a Class M license is 16 years. However, candidates should note that obtaining higher-class driving licenses, such as Class B (passenger cars), Class A1, Class A2, or Class A (motorcycles), automatically covers Class M privileges. This means that if you pass your passenger car driving test, you are immediately authorized to ride a moped without any additional testing or administrative updates. ## Critical Traffic Rules and Restrictions for Mopeds Because mopeds have limited acceleration and a maximum design speed of 45 km/h, they are subject to strict operational restrictions. The most important safety rule is that mopeds are strictly prohibited from entering motorways (otoyol). Motorways have high speed limits, and slow-moving vehicles pose an extreme safety hazard. Additionally, moped riders are required by law to wear a protective helmet and goggles at all times. Riders are not allowed to use pedestrian sidewalks, and they may only carry a passenger if the vehicle registration document explicitly states that the moped has a designated passenger seat. ## Mopeds on the MTSK Driving Theory Exam When preparing for the Turkish driving theory exam (MTSK e-sınav), watch out for specific trick questions. Exams often ask you to identify the maximum engine capacity of a moped (50 cc) or its top design speed (45 km/h). Other common questions test your knowledge of motorway restrictions, asking which vehicle types are banned from entering. Make sure you do not confuse 'motorlu bisiklet' (moped) with 'motosiklet' (motorcycle) when selecting the correct license class on your exam.