Don't take this the wrong way. We are all friends here and I don't want to see you get in trouble. The plate is easy, you just go to the DMV website and everything is done via computer and mail. You never need to show up at the DMV. The moped plate is "supposed" to be used for mopeds only, which is 50cc or less. The four CA DMV criteria for mopeds are:I was pretty lucky with a 2005 Whizzer I picked up to part out for a future Whizzer build. Bought in California by the original owner who went through all the trouble to get proper registration. It came with a title, all associated paperwork, and most importantly it has a real California moped license plate. The plate will go with the engine to my future Whizzer powered build.
50 cc or less
2 hp or less
30 mph or less
able to move just by pedal power
You may never be called on it, but if a CHP officer that knows engines can spot the difference between a 50 cc engine and a 110 cc engine it may cause you expensive problems. I always side with caution because I hate to look over my shoulder all the time. If you register it as a scooter you will be good to go and even ride in the traffic lane as a plus.