Generally, in many places, 49cc scooters are considered street legal because of their engine size, which typically falls below the threshold that requires a motorcycle endorsement on your driver's license. However, being 'street legal' does not mean that there are no requirements or restrictions.

According to United States law, any vehicle with a 50cc engine or stronger is to be designated as a motorcycle—and thus, requires a title and registration to operate. Scooter manufacturers commonly use the term “49cc” to signify a scooter that is legal to operate without a title or registration—but the specifics of the law will vary by state.