Are Electric Scooters Legal in Utah?
Updated on December 1st, 2023
In Utah, motor assisted scooters are governed by similar regulations as bicycles, with certain exceptions. Operators are not required to have a driver’s license, nor do scooters need to be equipped with seating positions, lights, horns, or mirrors as defined in specific sections of Utah Code. Electric scooters must not be operated on public property where bicycles are prohibited, within public parking structures, or in a manner that carries more persons than the scooter is designed for. Modifications to the scooter's original design are prohibited unless done to comply with rental company speed restrictions. Minors under eight years of age are not allowed to operate an electric scooter with the motor engaged on public property, and those between 8 and 15 must adhere to additional safety guidelines.
Except as otherwise provided in this section, a motor assisted scooter is subject to the provisions under the same rules as a bicycle.
For a person operating a motor assisted scooter, the following provisions do not apply:
(i)seating positions under Section 41-6a-1501;
(ii)required lights, horns, and mirrors under Section 41-6a-1506;(iii)entitlement to full use of a lane under Subsection 41-6a-1502(1)
(iv)driver licensing requirements under Section 53-3-202.
A person may operate a motor assisted scooter across a roadway in a crosswalk, except that the person may not operate the motor assisted scooter in a negligent manner in the crosswalk:
(i)so as to collide with a:(A)pedestrian; or(B)person operating a bicycle or vehicle or device propelled by human power
(ii)at a speed greater than is reasonable and prudent under the existing conditions, giving regard to the actual and potential hazards then existing.
A person under eight years of age may not operate a motor assisted scooter with the motor running on any public property, highway, path, or sidewalk.
A person may not operate a motor assisted scooter:
(a)in a public parking structure;(b)on public property posted as an area prohibiting bicycles;
(c)while carrying more persons at one time than the number for which it is designed;
(d)that has been structurally or mechanically altered from the original manufacturer's design, except for an alteration by, or done at the request of, a person who rents the motor assisted scooter to lower the maximum speed for the motor assisted scooter; or
(e)at a speed of greater than 15 miles per hour or in violation of Subsection 41-6a-1115.1(3).
Max Speed
15 mph
Minimum Age
No one under the age of 8 may operate an electric scooter. Riders between the ages of 8 and 15 must complete a bicycle safety and skills course. Additionally, they must be under the supervision of an adult if they are under the age of 15.
Helmets Required?
Helmets are recommended for all riders but mandatory only for those under 18 years of age according to some local ordinances. State law might not mandate helmet use, but it is advisable to check local regulations.
