Are Electric Scooters Legal in Minnesota?
Updated on December 1st, 2023
Electric scooters, or motorized foot scooters, are subject to the same rights and responsibilities as bicyclists in Minnesota. These scooters can be operated on streets and highways without needing a driver's license, registration, or insurance, though they are categorized as 'motor vehicles' by law. They are prohibited from being ridden on sidewalks. Riders under 18 years of age are required to wear a helmet approved by the Department of Public Safety. To ride an electric scooter on public streets and highways, an individual must be at least 12 years old. When operating from sunset to sunrise or under poor visibility conditions, a motorized scooter must be equipped with working headlights and taillights that comply with the Department of Public Safety standards. Local regulations may impose additional rules regarding the operation and parking of electric scooters.
In Minnesota, electric scooters (motorized foot scooters) have the same rights and responsibilities as bicyclists. This means that these vehicles may be operated on streets and highways without a driver’s license and without the vehicle being registered, licensed, or insured. They are considered "motor vehicles" under Minnesota law. Motorized scooters may not be operated on sidewalks.
An operator of a motorized scooter who is under age 18 must wear a helmet approved by the Department of Public Safety. A person must be at least 12 years old to operate a motorized scooter on public streets and highways. A motorized scooter must have a headlight and taillight that meet Department of Public Safety standards if it is operated (from sunset to sunrise, and whenever weather or other atmospheric conditions such as fog or smoke reduce visibility to 500 feet).
Further regulations regarding the safe operation of electric scooters and the presence of electric scooters on public property are governed by local authorities.
Max Speed
15 mph
Minimum Age
12 years old for operating on public roads
Helmets Required?
Yes, for operators under age 18
