Electric scooters became legal in NYC following November 2020 statewide legislation.
Age and Speed: Riders must be at least 16 years old. Maximum permitted speed is 15 mph. It is illegal to operate in excess of 15 mph.
Equipment Requirements: All e-scooters must be equipped with working brakes, lights, reflectors, and a bell or audible signal device. Front white lights visible from 500 feet and rear red lights visible from 300 feet required during low-light conditions.
Helmet Laws: Riders under 18 must wear approved helmets. Helmets not legally required for adults, though strongly recommended.
Where You Can Ride: Must utilize bike lanes rather than sidewalks or vehicle lanes. Cannot operate on sidewalks. Can operate on highways with posted speed limits of 30 mph or less. Not permitted on highways, expressways, or tunnels.
Parking: Since late 2024, the city has installed over 200 dedicated e-scooter parking zones, with plans to add 300 more by end of 2025. Cannot block sidewalks, building entrances, or accessibility ramps.
Registration and Licensing: No DMV registration required. No special license needed.
2025 Safety Standards: Retailers must provide operating manuals (effective January 7, 2025). Lithium batteries must comply with UL 2849, UL 2271, or EN 15194 safety standards (as of October 9, 2024).
Pending Legislation: Proposed legislation for licensing requirements has not yet passed into law.