Yikes!
For daylight riding you still need a headlight and taillight with brake light (yeah, I know... sounds goofy to me too), mirror on the left side, a Motorized Bicycle plate which is different than a moped plate, a DOT helmet, and an M1 or M2 license. Turn signals are not required, but at least use hand signals to CYA.
I agree with you on "Not a good way to be welcomed into the sport"., but you gotta play the sport within the rules of the sport or else the referee will get you.
FWIW, the city of LaMesa has an all out ban on MB's. There is nothing you can do to be legal there.