Can You Drive an Electric Scooter on the Road? Know the Rules and Regulations

Electric scooters have become a popular mode of transportation for their convenience, eco-friendly nature, and cost-effectiveness. However, one of the most common questions among riders is: Can you legally drive an electric scooter on the road? The answer is nuanced and depends heavily on where you're located, as different federal, state, and local regulations govern electric scooter use across the United States.

This comprehensive guide explores the legal landscape surrounding electric scooters on roads, covering federal guidelines, state-by-state variations, licensing and registration requirements, safety regulations, and practical tips for staying compliant. Whether you're considering purchasing your first scooter or you're an experienced rider moving to a new area, understanding these laws ensures a safe and legal riding experience.

Quick Answer: Can You Ride Electric Scooters on Roads?

Yes, in most states: Electric scooters are legal to ride on roads in the majority of US states, typically on roads with speed limits of 35 MPH or lower. As of mid-2024, 28 states plus Washington, D.C. have updated their electric scooter laws, addressing age restrictions, speed limits, and designated riding areas.

Two exceptions: Pennsylvania and Delaware have straightforward bans on electric scooters, prohibiting their use on public roads.

The details matter: Even where legal, specific regulations about where you can ride (roads vs. bike lanes vs. sidewalks), speed limits, age requirements, helmet laws, and equipment standards vary significantly by state and local municipality. The remainder of this guide explores these variations in detail.

Federal Regulations: Baseline Standards

While most electric scooter regulation happens at the state and local level, federal guidelines establish baseline standards that influence state laws.

Federal Speed and Power Limits

Maximum speed: According to federal regulations, electric scooters shouldn't exceed a maximum speed of 20 MPH. This federal guideline influences many state regulations, though states can impose stricter limits.

Motor power limit: Electric scooters are federally allowed on roads if they have an electric motor of 750 watts or lower. Scooters with motors exceeding 750 watts may be classified differently and subject to motorcycle regulations in some jurisdictions.

Classification implications: Scooters that meet these federal standards (20 MPH maximum, 750 watts or less) are typically classified as low-speed electric vehicles rather than motor vehicles, which exempts them from many requirements that apply to motorcycles, mopeds, and cars.

What Federal Law Doesn't Cover

Federal regulations do not address:

• Where scooters can be ridden: Roads, bike lanes, sidewalks, or prohibited areas


• Age requirements: Minimum age for riders


• Safety equipment: Helmet requirements, lights, reflectors


• Registration and licensing: Whether DMV registration or driver's licenses are needed

These important aspects are left to state and local governments, resulting in the patchwork of regulations that riders must navigate.

State-by-State Regulations: The Legal Landscape

Electric scooter laws vary dramatically across the United States. Understanding your specific state's requirements is essential for legal riding.

States Where Electric Scooters Are Banned

Pennsylvania: Electric scooters are not permitted on public roads, bike lanes, or sidewalks. The state has not legalized personal electric scooters for public road use.

Delaware: Similarly prohibits electric scooters on roads, including on-road bike lanes. Riders cannot legally operate electric scooters on public infrastructure.

Unclear status: Idaho and New Hampshire have less clear legal frameworks, with electric scooter legality remaining ambiguous in some interpretations.

States Requiring DMV Registration

Most states do not require DMV registration for electric scooters, but three states stand out with registration mandates:

North Carolina: Requires DMV registration for personal electric scooters. Riders must complete registration paperwork and may need to display registration credentials.

Hawaii: Mandates DMV registration for electric scooters before they can be legally operated on public roads.

Louisiana: Also requires electric scooters to be registered with the state DMV.

All other states: Do not require registration, treating electric scooters similarly to bicycles in this regard.

States Requiring a Driver's License

Most states don't require a driver's license for electric scooter operation, but several exceptions exist:

Alabama: Electric scooters are classified as motor vehicles and subject to the same rules as motorcycles. Riders must possess a valid driver's license and wear helmets while operating electric scooters.

Missouri, Montana, and Georgia: Classify electric scooters the same as motorized bicycles, requiring a valid driver's license. Scooters exceeding 30 MPH are regulated as motorcycles with additional requirements.

California: You can operate an electric scooter with any class of driver's license. While a license is required, you don't need a motorcycle-specific license—any standard driver's license suffices.

Ohio: Legalized electric scooters in 2021, classifying them as "low-speed micromobility devices." No driver's license is needed, and electric scooters are exempt from DMV registration and insurance requirements.

Most other states: Do not require licenses for electric scooters, though some local jurisdictions may impose licensing requirements for rental scooter programs.

Age Requirements by State

Many states establish minimum age requirements for electric scooter riders:

• 16 years minimum: Arkansas, New York, Florida, Washington D.C., and most states that specify ages


• 15 years minimum: Hawaii (over 15)


• 14 years minimum: Virginia


• No state minimum: Many states don't specify minimum ages, though local municipalities often establish their own requirements

Parental guidance: Even in states without minimum age laws, manufacturers like US-based Levy recommend adult supervision for riders under 16 and age-appropriate scooter models (with limited speeds) for younger riders.

Helmet Laws by State

Helmet requirements vary significantly across states:

All ages must wear helmets:

• Washington: Helmets required for all electric scooter riders regardless of age

Riders under 18 must wear helmets:

• California: Mandatory helmets for riders under 18


• Arkansas: Helmet requirement for riders under 18 (specifically for shared scooters)


• New York: Riders under 18 must wear helmets


• Minnesota: Riders under 18 may be required to wear helmets by local law


• Colorado: Helmet requirement for riders under 18

Riders under 16 must wear helmets:

• Maryland, Delaware, Hawaii: Mandatory helmets for riders under 16

No statewide helmet requirement:

• Arizona, Florida: No state-level helmet mandates, though local jurisdictions may require helmets

Best practice recommendation: Regardless of legal requirements, safety experts and manufacturers strongly recommend helmets for all riders. Electric scooters can reach 15-20 MPH, and head injuries account for 70% of fatalities in scooter accidents. Wearing a helmet dramatically reduces injury risk.

Speed Limits by State

States regulate both the maximum speed electric scooters can travel and the road speed limits where they're allowed:

Scooter maximum speeds:

• 15 MPH maximum: California, Minnesota, Washington, NYC specifically


• 20 MPH maximum: New York (statewide), Maryland, federal guideline


• 10 MPH in certain areas: Washington D.C. limits scooters to 10 MPH in many downtown zones

Road speed limits where scooters are permitted:

• 25 MPH roads: Most states allow e-scooters only on roads posted 25 MPH or below


• 30 MPH roads: Some states permit riding on roads up to 30 MPH speed limits


• 35 MPH roads: California and several other states permit scooters on roads with speed limits of 35 MPH or less

Compliance features: Quality manufacturers like Levy offer multiple riding modes that allow riders to cap their scooter's maximum speed, ensuring compliance with local speed limits regardless of the scooter's technical capabilities.

Where Can You Ride Electric Scooters?

Beyond whether scooters are legal, understanding where you can ride is crucial for compliance and safety.

Roads and Streets

Generally permitted: In states where electric scooters are legal, riding on public roads is typically allowed with important restrictions:

• Speed limit restrictions: Roads must have posted speed limits of 25-35 MPH or lower (varies by state)


• Preferred routing: When bike lanes are available, most states require scooters to use bike lanes rather than regular traffic lanes


• Traffic rules apply: Scooter riders must obey all traffic signals, signs, and rules just like vehicles and bicycles


• Right-of-way: Scooters must yield to pedestrians and follow right-of-way rules

Prohibited roads:

• Highways and expressways: Electric scooters are not permitted on interstate highways, limited-access highways, or expressways in any state


• High-speed roads: Roads with speed limits exceeding 30-35 MPH (depending on state) are off-limits


• State highways: In some jurisdictions, state highways are specifically prohibited even if speed limits would otherwise permit scooters

Bike Lanes and Paths

Strongly preferred: When available, bike lanes are the preferred and often required location for electric scooter riding in most states. Dedicated bike infrastructure provides safer separation from both vehicle traffic and pedestrians.

Shared-use paths: Multi-use paths designated for bicycles and pedestrians typically accommodate electric scooters, though local regulations may restrict speeds or prohibit scooters on certain paths.

Exception - Pennsylvania and Delaware: In states that ban electric scooters entirely, riders cannot use on-road bike lanes or off-road paths for scooter operation.

Sidewalks: Restrictions Vary

Sidewalk regulations are among the most variable aspects of electric scooter law:

States prohibiting sidewalk riding (11 states):

• California: California Vehicle Code §21230 clearly states it's illegal to ride scooters on sidewalks, except when briefly crossing to enter or exit adjacent property


• Ohio: Allows electric scooters on roads and bike paths but prohibits them from sidewalks


• Florida: Permits use on streets and bike paths but prohibits sidewalk riding


• New York: Riding e-scooters on sidewalks is illegal


• Connecticut: Permits scooters on roads and bike lanes but prohibits them on sidewalks


• Plus others: Additional states with sidewalk prohibitions include several northeastern and midwestern states

States permitting sidewalk riding:

• Texas: Classifies electric scooters similarly to bicycles, allowing them on roads, bike lanes, and sidewalks unless prohibited by local ordinance


• Arizona, North Carolina, Iowa, Louisiana, Rhode Island, Virginia: Permit sidewalk riding under state law, though local municipalities may restrict or prohibit it

Rationale for sidewalk bans: States prohibit sidewalk riding primarily to protect pedestrians. Electric scooters traveling at 15-20 MPH pose collision risks on sidewalks designed for walking speeds of 3-4 MPH. The rise in pedestrian injuries from scooter-sidewalk conflicts has driven many jurisdictions to ban the practice.

Private Property

Generally allowed: Private property owners can permit electric scooter use on their property. Common locations include:

• Large private campuses (colleges, corporate headquarters)


• Private residential communities with internal roads


• Parking lots and garages (with owner permission)

Liability considerations: Property owners should be aware that permitting electric scooter use may create liability exposure if accidents occur.

Safety Equipment Requirements

Beyond helmets, many states and localities mandate specific safety equipment for electric scooters.

Lighting Requirements

Night riding regulations: Most states require electric scooters to have functional lighting when operated during low-light conditions (dusk, dawn, nighttime, reduced visibility weather):

• Front white light: Typically must be visible from at least 300-500 feet ahead


• Rear red light or reflector: Must be visible from at least 300-500 feet behind


• Side reflectors: Some jurisdictions require side-facing reflective materials

Always-on requirements: Several jurisdictions require lights to be functional and turned on at all times, not just at night, increasing visibility during daytime riding.

Quality matters: US-based manufacturers like Levy integrate high-quality LED lighting systems into their scooters as standard equipment, ensuring compliance without requiring aftermarket additions and providing better visibility than cheap add-on lights.

Braking Systems

Dual brake requirements: Some states specify that electric scooters must have at least one brake (front or rear), while safety-conscious manufacturers provide dual braking systems:

• Electronic/regenerative brake: Typically on rear wheel, also helps recharge battery


• Mechanical disc brake: Provides reliable stopping power independent of battery/electronics

Quality manufacturing: Brands like Levy emphasize reliable dual braking systems as standard safety features, recognizing that quality brakes are essential for safe urban riding and compliance with evolving regulations.

Audible Warning Devices

Bell or horn: Some jurisdictions require electric scooters to have a bell or horn capable of alerting pedestrians and other road users. While not universally mandated, having an audible warning device is a best practice.

Reflective Materials

Visibility enhancement: Wearing reflective clothing or having reflective materials on the scooter increases visibility, especially during low-light conditions. Some localities mandate reflective elements.

Local Regulations: The Final Layer

Even in states where electric scooters are legal, local cities and municipalities often impose additional regulations that can be more restrictive than state law.

Common Local Restrictions

Designated zones: Cities may establish zones where scooters are prohibited entirely, such as:

• Historic districts with heavy pedestrian traffic


• Specific downtown areas during certain hours


• Entertainment districts with high foot traffic


• Areas near schools or hospitals

Parking regulations: Many cities have established dedicated parking zones for scooters to reduce sidewalk clutter. Since late 2024, New York City has installed over 200 dedicated e-scooter parking zones, with plans to add 300 more by end of 2025.

Speed restrictions: Local ordinances may impose lower speed limits than state maximums, particularly in crowded areas, parks, or near schools.

Time restrictions: Some localities prohibit or restrict scooter use during certain hours, such as late night/early morning periods.

How to Find Local Regulations

Research methods:

• City websites: Check your municipal government's transportation or vehicle regulations pages


• Local DMV offices: Contact local Department of Motor Vehicles or transportation departments


• Scooter sharing apps: If your city has rental scooter services, their apps often show prohibited zones and local rules


• Local advocacy groups: Bicycle and micromobility advocacy organizations often maintain updated regulatory information

Enforcement and Penalties

Understanding potential penalties for violations helps riders appreciate the importance of compliance.

Common Violations and Penalties

Riding on prohibited surfaces:

• Riding on sidewalks where prohibited: Fines typically $50-$200


• Riding on highways or high-speed roads: Fines $100-$500, potential impoundment

Equipment violations:

• No helmet (where required): $25-$100 fines for first offense


• Missing lights or reflectors: $50-$150 fines


• Non-functional brakes: $75-$200 fines, safety hazard citations

Speed violations:

• Exceeding posted limits: $50-$250 fines depending on severity


• Excessive speed in pedestrian zones: Higher fines, potential criminal charges if injuries occur

Age and licensing violations:

• Underage riding: $50-$150 fines, parental notification


• Operating without required license: $100-$500 fines in states requiring licenses

Liability in Accidents

Civil liability: Riders involved in accidents may face civil lawsuits for injuries or property damage caused. Operating illegally (on prohibited surfaces, without required equipment, in violation of regulations) can strengthen plaintiff cases and increase liability exposure.

Insurance considerations: Most homeowner's or renter's insurance policies don't specifically cover electric scooter accidents. Riders should verify their coverage and consider additional liability protection, especially in states that classify scooters as motor vehicles.

Scooter Impoundment

Seizure authority: Law enforcement in some jurisdictions can impound electric scooters operated illegally, particularly if:

• Rider is significantly underage


• Scooter is operated recklessly or at excessive speeds


• Scooter is abandoned or parked illegally


• Rider cannot produce required registration/license (in states requiring them)

Retrieval costs: Impoundment typically involves storage fees ($20-$50 per day) and retrieval charges ($100-$300), making compliance more economical than violations.

Choosing Compliant Electric Scooters

Selecting a scooter designed for legal compliance makes following regulations significantly easier.

Key Features for Compliance

Speed limiting capabilities: Look for scooters with multiple riding modes that cap maximum speeds. This allows you to comply with varying local speed limits without purchasing different scooters for different jurisdictions.

Integrated lighting: Scooters with built-in, always-on lighting systems ensure automatic compliance with visibility requirements without requiring separate purchases or installation.

Quality braking systems: Dual braking systems (electronic + mechanical) provide redundancy and superior stopping power, meeting or exceeding most regulatory requirements.

Appropriate power ratings: Scooters with motors at or below 750 watts comply with federal guidelines and avoid classification as motorcycles in most jurisdictions.

UL certification: UL-certified batteries and electrical systems demonstrate safety standards compliance, increasingly important as some jurisdictions mandate certified components.

US Manufacturers and Compliance Focus

Levy Electric: As a US-based manufacturer, Levy designs scooters specifically for the American regulatory environment:

• Multiple speed modes: Allow riders to cap speeds at 10, 15, or 20+ MPH to comply with different local regulations


• Integrated lighting: High-quality front and rear LED lights come standard, meeting visibility requirements across all states


• Dual braking systems: Electronic regenerative and mechanical disc brakes provide compliant, reliable stopping power


• 750W motors: Motor specifications comply with federal power limits


• UL-certified batteries: Swappable battery packs feature UL certification for safety compliance


• Quality construction: Durable, lightweight design (under 27 pounds) facilitates portability while maintaining safety standards

Customer support advantage: US-based manufacturers typically provide better guidance on compliance requirements for American riders, understand regional regulatory variations, and offer responsive support when questions arise about legal use.

Avoid Non-Compliant Scooters

Warning signs of non-compliant scooters:

• Motors exceeding 750 watts (may trigger motorcycle classification)


• Top speeds significantly exceeding 20 MPH (25+ MPH models may be illegal in many jurisdictions)


• No integrated lighting or reflectors


• Single brake systems or poor-quality brakes


• Non-certified batteries (fire risk and potential legal issues)


• No speed limiting options

International Comparison

Understanding how US regulations compare to other countries provides perspective.

European Union

Generally more permissive: Many EU countries have embraced electric scooters with supportive regulations:

• Speed limits typically 20-25 km/h (12-15 MPH)


• Age requirements vary (14-16 minimum in most countries)


• Sidewalk riding generally prohibited, bike lanes preferred


• Helmet requirements vary by country

United Kingdom

Rental only (as of 2025): Private electric scooters remain illegal on public roads in the UK, though rental trials continue in many cities. The UK represents one of the more restrictive developed markets.

Asia-Pacific

Highly variable: Regulations range from very permissive (Thailand, some Chinese cities) to restrictive (Singapore requires registration and licensing). Enforcement varies significantly even where regulations exist.

Staying Compliant: Practical Tips

Following these best practices helps ensure you remain within legal boundaries.

Before Your First Ride

• Research thoroughly: Check state laws, verify local ordinances, and identify any special restrictions in areas you plan to ride


• Verify equipment: Ensure your scooter has all required safety features (lights, reflectors, brakes, horn/bell if required)


• Obtain required documents: If your state requires registration or a driver's license, complete these requirements before riding


• Get proper safety gear: Purchase a quality helmet (even if not legally required) and consider protective pads

While Riding

• Know your route: Plan routes that use bike lanes and permitted roads, avoiding prohibited areas


• Obey speed limits: Respect both your scooter's legal maximum speed and road speed limit restrictions


• Follow traffic rules: Stop at red lights and stop signs, yield right-of-way appropriately, signal turns when possible


• Be visible: Use lights during all low-light conditions, wear bright or reflective clothing


• Ride defensively: Assume other road users don't see you, maintain safe distances, avoid dangerous maneuvers

Stay Updated on Law Changes

Regulations are evolving: Electric scooter laws continue to change as cities and states gain experience with these vehicles. As of mid-2024, 28 states updated their regulations, and more changes are expected in 2025-2026.

Monitor changes through:

• State DMV websites and newsletters


• Local transportation authority announcements


• Micromobility advocacy organizations


• Manufacturer communications (quality brands like Levy often notify customers of regulatory changes)

Conclusion

Can you drive an electric scooter on the road? In most of the United States, yes—electric scooters are legal on roads with speed limits typically of 35 MPH or lower, provided you comply with state and local regulations. However, Pennsylvania and Delaware maintain bans on electric scooters, and even in legal states, the specific rules governing where you can ride, speed limits, age requirements, helmet laws, and equipment standards vary significantly.

The federal baseline (20 MPH maximum speed, 750 watts or less motor power) establishes broad parameters, but state and local regulations create the detailed framework riders must follow. Most states don't require DMV registration or driver's licenses for electric scooters (notable exceptions: registration in NC/HI/LA, licenses in AL/MO/MT/GA), treat them similarly to bicycles for many purposes, and permit riding on roads and bike lanes while prohibiting sidewalk use in many jurisdictions.

Safety requirements vary but commonly include age minimums (typically 16+), helmet requirements (especially for riders under 18), and lighting for low-visibility conditions. Speed limits generally cap scooters at 15-20 MPH, with roads limited to those posted at 25-35 MPH or below. Violations can result in fines ranging from $25-$500 depending on the offense, with more serious consequences for reckless operation or accidents.

Choosing a compliant electric scooter from quality manufacturers makes following regulations significantly easier. US-based brands like Levy design specifically for American regulatory requirements, incorporating multiple speed modes for different jurisdictions, integrated lighting systems, dual braking, 750W compliant motors, and UL-certified batteries—all while maintaining extremely lightweight construction that facilitates portability and multi-modal commuting.

As electric scooter adoption continues growing and regulations continue evolving, staying informed about federal, state, and local laws ensures you can enjoy the convenience, efficiency, and environmental benefits of electric scooter transportation while remaining legal, safe, and considerate of other road users. Before your first ride, research your specific location's requirements, equip yourself with proper safety gear, and choose a quality scooter designed for compliance. With proper preparation and awareness, electric scooters offer a practical, legal, and enjoyable way to navigate urban environments.