Are Electric Scooters Legal in Vermont?
Updated on December 1st, 2023
Vermont has updated its legislation to include rules for the operation of electric scooters, now recognized as EPAMDs. These devices are generally treated like bicycles, meaning they are allowed to operate on streets and bike lanes where bicycles are permitted. Electric scooters must yield the right-of-way to pedestrians and follow the same traffic laws as bicyclists. Usage in specific areas may be subject to local ordinances, and some cities may have pilot programs to evaluate their integration into the transportation system. While state laws provide a framework, local regulations should be verified for the most accurate and current rules.
Electric scooters are not mentioned in any official legislation in Vermont. However, current laws do state that motor-assisted bicycles shall be governed as bicycles under Vermont law, and operators of motor-assisted bicycles shall be subject to all of the rights and duties applicable to bicyclists under Vermont law. Motor-assisted bicycles and their operators shall be exempt from motor vehicle registration and inspection and operator's license requirements. A person shall not operate a motor-assisted bicycle on a sidewalk in Vermont.
A person under 16 years of age shall not operate a motor-assisted bicycle on a highway in Vermont.
Max Speed
20 mph
Minimum Age
16 years
Helmets Required?
No state law mandates helmet use for all riders, but individual cities may require helmets, particularly for riders under a certain age.
