Are Electric Scooters Legal in Kansas?
Updated on December 1st, 2023
In Kansas, an electric scooter is categorized under KSA 8-1498 as a self-propelled vehicle with an electric motor, handlebars, two wheels in contact with the ground, a brake system, and a standing deck. Operators must comply with vehicle driver obligations, including observing traffic signals, yielding appropriately, avoiding collisions with pedestrians, and maintaining prudent speeds. Although there is no statewide helmet law or minimum age requirement, these may be governed by local city or county ordinances. The use and operation on public property, along with any additional safety requirements, are also regulated at the local level.
An e-scooter is defined in KSA 8-1498 as a self-propelled vehicle that has at least two wheels in contact with the ground, an electric motor, handlebars, a brake, and a deck that is designed to be stood upon when riding.
All the rights and duties applicable to the driver of a vehicle apply to a cyclist and the operator of an e-scooter. The following are examples:
Obey traffic control devices unless otherwise directed by a law enforcement officer
Yield the right-of-way as indicated to other vehicles (stopping as necessary for emergency vehicles) and pedestrians.
Exercise due care to avoid colliding with any pedestrian.
A pedestrian has the right-of-way on any sidewalk
Stop before crossing a sidewalk when emerging from an alley, building, private road, or driveway
Speed must be reasonable and prudent for actual conditions. Obey speed limits and signal turns
There are no state wide helmet laws or age restrictions on electric scooters. Regulations regarding the safe operation of electric scooters and the presence of electric scooters on public property are governed by local authorities.
Max Speed
Not specified in state law, subject to local regulations
Minimum Age
Not specified in state law, subject to local regulations
Helmets Required?
No statewide mandate, varies by local ordinance
