Electric Scooter Age Ranges: When Is Your Child Ready?

As electric scooters become increasingly popular among kids and adolescents, it is important for parents to address the question: what age can a child ride an electric scooter? The recommended minimum age for controllable electric scooters is 8 years, but individual skill level, safety considerations, and scooter specifications should also play a significant role in your decision-making process.

Recommended Age Ranges and Types of Electric Scooters

Manufacturers and safety experts recommend that kids should be a minimum of 8 years old before they use a controllable electric scooter. However, various factors should be considered to determine if your child is prepared to ride.

The simplest and slowest electric scooters, intended for children aged 8-10, typically have a maximum speed of about 8-10 mph. These scooters are designed for the younger kids and as they grow older, they can consider upgrading to a faster and more advanced electric scooter.

It is important to consider your child’s physical fitness, coordination, and maturity. If they have experience riding traditional push scooters or bicycles, they may be ready for an electric scooter. Evaluate your child’s ability to balance and control a scooter at different speeds.

Safety Measures for Kids Riding Electric Scooters

Purchase a scooter appropriate for your child’s age, size, and skill level.
Helmet - Helmets should be certified, properly-fitting, and cover the forehead to provide optimal safety.
Knee and elbow pads should fit snugly, but not too tight, to provide protection during falls or accidents.
Ensure your child wears closed-toe shoes that provide adequate traction, as well as comfort during the ride.
Educate your child about scooter safety rulesEducate your child about scooter safety rules, such as yielding to pedestrians, not using headphones while riding, and observing traffic signals.

Supervision and Boundaries

Even if your child meets the recommended age and skill levels, adult supervision is strongly advised, especially for children under 12. Be sure that they ride in safe areas, such as parks or cul-de-sacs, and away from heavy traffic.

Final Thoughts

While the minimum recommended age to ride an electric scooter is 8 years old, parents should thoughtfully consider if their child is responsible and coordinated enough to safely operate the scooter. After assessing their child’s readiness, parents can invest in an age-appropriate electric scooter, with necessary safety gear, and a plan in place for securing their child’s safety.