A term, commonly used in vehicle registration and financial responsibility
statutes, that is generally defined to mean a device capable of transporting
people or property and is self-propelled by mechanical or electrical power.
However, state "motor vehicle" definitions usually contain a list of
exceptions of the kinds of vehicles that do not qualify—for example, vehicles
that are not designed for use on public roads, vehicles propelled solely by
human power, bicycles, motorized wheelchairs or other electric personal
assistive mobility devices, farm tractors, implements of husbandry, motorized
bicycles, mopeds, snowmobiles, all-terrain vehicles, motor scooters, and
vehicles running only upon rails or tracks. Each state's "motor
vehicle" definition must be examined closely to see what types of vehicles
qualify and what types do not. Any nonexempt vehicle that qualifies under a
state statutory definition of a "motor vehicle" may be subject to
that state's licensing, registration, and/or financial responsibility laws.