Are Electric Scooters Legal in Delaware?
DEDelaware
Banned in Most Areas
Quick Facts
Max Speed
20 mph on public bike paths and designated roads
Minimum Age
16 years old to operate an electric scooter on designated public roads and paths
Helmets Required?
Yes, for persons under the age of 18
Summary
Delaware still bans motorized scooters on public roads, sidewalks, and ROWs unless it’s a permitted special event (21 Del. C. §4198N), though HB 114 (2025) would exempt ≤15 mph “low-speed motorized scooters” once fully enacted.
Detailed Information
Under 21 Del. C. §4198N, operating a motorized skateboard or scooter on public streets, sidewalks, or rights-of-way is illegal unless you are pushing an unpowered device across the road or holding a government-issued special-event permit. Violations bring $25–$115 fines (repeat offenses can trigger forfeiture), anyone under 18 must wear a helmet, devices can be seized for ignoring police stop orders, and retailers have to keep signed disclosures proving buyers know the public-road ban. Riders may use private property only with the owner’s consent, and parents are on the hook for damage caused by minors. The General Assembly’s HB 114 (2025) is working through the legislature to carve out “low-speed motorized scooters” capped at 15 mph so they could operate legally, but until that bill is signed and implemented, Delaware effectively remains a no-share zone where only private-property riding is allowed.
Official References
2025-11-10
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