Not all mopeds and scooters are created equally. And if you don't do a little research before you buy, it could cost you.

Mopeds and scooters are very popular right now. NBC Augusta found dealerships in the Augusta area can barely keep them in stock.

A lot of people may think they're the same because of their similar body styles, but they're not.

"Mopeds are basically motorized bikes, hence the word moped. Mopeds are capable of 30, 40 sometimes 50 mph," said Alan Moffett, Sales Manager at Street and Trail Motor Sports.

"Scooters can range from fifty CCs capable of 30 mph up to 650 CCs capable of 120 mph,” said Moffett.

CCs stand for Cubic Centimeters of an engine. The larger the engine, the faster the vehicle can go.

"You have license ramifications as far as whether you require or don't require a license. 50 CCs and below does not require a license," said Moffett.

That means if your scooter or moped goes LESS than 30mph, you do not need a motorcycle license.

If it's capable of going faster than 30 mph, you will need to get a license.

So, if you're thinking about trading in your gas guzzler, make sure you do your homework.

Insurance, tags and registration varies in South Carolina and Georgia.

To find out what exactly what you need to know click on the related content link in this story.