Do You Need a License to Drive a Vespa in Paris?

By Robert Palmer

If you are planning to travel to Paris and explore the city on a Vespa, you might be wondering if you need a license to drive one. The answer is yes, but it depends on the type of Vespa you want to drive and your age.

What is a Vespa

A Vespa is a popular Italian brand of scooter that was first introduced in the 1940s. It has since become an iconic symbol of European culture and is widely used for transportation in cities like Paris.

License Requirements for Driving a Vespa in Paris

To drive a Vespa in Paris, you need to have a valid driver’s license. If you are over 18 years old and have a driver’s license that allows you to operate motorcycles or scooters, you can legally drive any type of Vespa.

However, if you do not have a motorcycle or scooter license, but still want to ride a Vespa, there are some restrictions. In France, there are two types of licenses that allow you to ride scooters:

  • The AM license: This license allows people over the age of 14 to ride scooters that have an engine capacity of up to 50cc.
  • The A1 license: This license allows people over the age of 16 to ride scooters that have an engine capacity of up to 125cc.

If you don’t have either of these licenses, then unfortunately, driving any type of Vespa in Paris is not legal.

Why You Should Consider Renting A Vespa In Paris

Now that we know the legal requirements for driving a Vespa in Paris let’s take look at why renting one could be worth it:

  • You can explore Paris at your own pace, without having to rely on public transportation schedules.
  • You can avoid traffic congestion and reach your destination quicker than by car or bus.
  • You can park almost anywhere in the city, including designated motorcycle parking spots, which are often closer to popular attractions.
  • You can enjoy a unique and exciting experience that will make your trip even more memorable.

In Conclusion

If you want to drive a Vespa in Paris, you need to have a valid driver’s license that allows you to operate motorcycles or scooters. If you don’t have one, you can still legally ride a Vespa if you obtain an AM or A1 license. Renting a Vespa in Paris is an excellent way to explore the city and create unforgettable memories.