AZE.US
Azerbaijan is introducing new requirements for moped riders, bringing vehicles that previously could be operated without registration or a driver’s license under tighter road safety regulations.
Under the new rules, mopeds must be registered with the state and display license plates. Riders will need an A1-category driver’s license and must carry the vehicle’s registration certificate.
Mopeds will also be subject to technical inspections and mandatory insurance. Their riders will assume many of the same legal responsibilities that already apply to drivers of other motor vehicles.
The state fee for issuing or replacing a driver’s license will be 30 manats ($17.65). A separate 30-manat fee will apply to the vehicle registration certificate. Technical inspections and the issuance of a state license plate will require a 15-manat ($8.82) fee.
Baku residents interviewed about the changes largely supported the new requirements. They said unregistered mopeds frequently move unpredictably between cars, perform dangerous maneuvers and create risks for both riders and other road users.
State registration would also make it easier for authorities to identify moped owners following traffic violations or accidents.
Road safety experts said people under the age of 16 had previously been able to operate mopeds. Some riders lacked even a basic understanding of traffic rules, ignored signals and drove in unsafe positions on the roadway.
Azerbaijan’s Main State Traffic Police Department has also issued a renewed warning to motorcycle and moped riders.
Police identified speeding, failure to maintain a safe distance, disregarding traffic signals, dangerous maneuvers and overtaking in oncoming lanes as the leading causes of crashes involving two-wheeled vehicles.
Riders were reminded to wear helmets and other protective equipment, obey speed limits and avoid behavior that could endanger others. The warning specifically addressed riding without holding the handlebars, performing wheelies and recording videos while moving through traffic.
During the first half of 2026, Azerbaijan recorded 17 traffic accidents involving motorcycles, mopeds and similar two-wheeled vehicles. The crashes killed 11 people and injured 10 others.
AZE.US