Electric Scooters in California: What Age Can Kids Start Riding?

Navigating the world of electric scooters can be confusing, especially when it comes to determining the legal age for children to ride them in California. With a variety of electric scooters on the market, and conflicting state and local regulations, it’s important for parents to be informed before allowing their children to hop on and start scooting. In this article, we will provide a comprehensive overview of the relevant laws, guidelines, and age restrictions to help clarify the appropriate age for children to ride electric scooters in California.

In California, state law (AB 604) outlines the legal requirements for electric scooter usage. According to this legislation, riders must be at least 16 years old and have a valid driver’s license or instruction permit. Additionally, riders must wear a helmet meeting federal standards, and scooters must not exceed a maximum speed of 15 mph on level ground. While these laws apply to public roadways, bike lanes, and certain pathways, they do not cover private property or off-road areas.

However, it is important to note that local jurisdictions may impose additional restrictions, making it crucial for parents to familiarize themselves with their specific city or county rules. For example, some cities may have designated areas where electric scooters are not allowed, such as on sidewalks or near schools. Furthermore, certain scooter-sharing companies may require riders to be 18 years old to rent and operate their devices.

Given the 16-year-old age requirement stipulated by California state law, it is generally not recommended for younger children to use electric scooters on public roadways. However, many electric scooters on the market are designed specifically for kids and can be used safely in controlled environments, such as private property or parks. Parents should always prioritize their child’s safety and consider factors such as their child’s physical abilities, maturity, and adherence to safety guidelines when deciding whether to allow them to ride an electric scooter.

In conclusion, the legal age for using electric scooters in California is 16 years old. Nonetheless, younger children may ride electric scooters designed for their age group in safe, controlled environments. It is ultimately a parent’s responsibility to ensure their child’s safety while riding an electric scooter It is ultimately a parent’s responsibility to ensure their child’s safety while riding an electric scooter and to comply with state and local regulations.