Are Electric Scooters Legal in New York City?
Updated on December 1st, 2023
Electric scooters and electric bicycles with assist are allowed on certain streets and highways in New York State, specifically those with a posted speed limit of 30 mph or less. However, local municipalities have the authority to regulate the specific conditions regarding the time, place, and manner of use of these devices within their jurisdictions. Electric scooters and electric bicycles with assist cannot be registered in the state, but they may operate on roads designated for their use. For electric scooters, riders under the age of 18 are required to wear helmets, while for certain throttle-controlled electric bicycles, the helmet requirement is mandatory for riders of all ages. It is critical for riders to stay informed about any local regulations that may apply to specific districts within New York City.
You can operate an electric scooter or bicycle with electric assist on some streets and highways in New York State:
- you can operate these devices on highways with a posted speed limit of 30 MPH or less
- municipalities can further regulate the time, place and manner of operation of these devices
- you cannot operate these devices on a sidewalk except as authorized by local law or ordinance
An electric scooter or bicycle with electric assist cannot be registered but still may be operated on some streets and highways in New York State.
Riders of electric scooters and throttle-controlled electric bicycles must be over 16. Helmets are required on scooters for those under 18, while on certain types of throttle-controlled bicycles everyone must wear a helmet.
https://www.nytimes.com/2020/11/23/nyregion/electric-scooters-nyc.html
Max Speed
20 mph
Minimum Age
16
Helmets Required?
Yes for riders under the age of 18 on scooters, and for riders of all ages on certain types of throttle-controlled electric bicycles.
