Electric scooters have taken the world by storm, offering a convenient and eco-friendly mode of transportation. However, navigating the legal landscape of electric scooters can be confusing, with laws varying from state to state. In this comprehensive guide, we'll break down the key regulations governing electric scooters in the United States in 2023.

Do You Need a License to Ride Electric Scooters?

The first burning question for many new e-scooter riders is whether they need a special license. The good news is that, in most states, there is no requirement for a specific e-scooter license. However, some states may stipulate the need for a valid driver's license. Notably, California stands out as the only state where a valid driver's license is mandatory to operate an electric scooter. The state has specific laws defining motorized scooters and imposes a maximum speed limit of 15 mph.There are also answers in the SISIGAD Q & A.

Are Electric Scooters Allowed on the Roads?

The road legality of electric scooters varies, with many states allowing them on roads with speed limits of 25 mph or less. Pennsylvania and Delaware, however, prohibit scooters on streets entirely. While some riders may find these restrictions frustrating, most are content with cruising at speeds below 20 mph. SISIGAD's electric scooter has a top speed of 19 miles per hour, meets the regulations of most states in the United States, and is very suitable for short-and medium-distance customer commuting.

Planning to travel with your electric scooter? Be aware that regulations can be tricky, especially when it comes to carrying scooters on planes. Check out our detailed guide for specific rules imposed by US airlines.

Is There an Age Restriction for Electric Scooters?

In general, most states require riders to be at least 16 years old to operate an electric scooter legally. Some states may have additional requirements, such as wearing helmets or holding a valid driver's license. It's crucial to familiarize yourself with your state's specific regulations to ensure a safe and legal riding experience.The following is a summary of the age of drivers who use electric scooters in various regions of the United States:

Shared Electric Scooters: Age and License Requirements

If you're considering renting a shared electric scooter from companies like Bird or Lime, be aware that you'll typically need to be at least 18 years old and possess a valid driver's license, irrespective of your location in the US. These age and license requirements are set by the companies themselves and not necessarily reflective of legal obligations. The SISIGAD brand electric scooter has no strict age limit, as long as your height is in the range of 51.18-78.74 inches, you can ride the SISIGAD electric scooter.

Legality of Electric Scooters by State

Now, let's delve into the specific regulations for electric scooters in various states across the US:

Alabama:

Scooters are legal, but specific laws are determined by local municipalities. The permissibility of scooter-sharing programs depends on the city.

Alaska：

Electric scooters are classified as "motor-driven cycles" and are subject to similar regulations as motorcycles, including licensing and power restrictions.

Arizona:

Treated like bicycles, electric scooters are allowed wherever bikes can be ridden. No insurance or registration is required, but helmets are mandatory for riders under 18.

Arkansas:

Scooters are street-legal, but certain age and speed restrictions apply. Regulations for scooter-sharing are determined by local municipalities.

California:

Extensive scooter laws require valid driver's licenses, but no vehicle registration. Speed and road restrictions apply, with helmets mandatory for riders under 18.

Colorado:

Scooters can be used on streets with speed limits of 30 mph or lower, and in some cases, sidewalks. They are subject to laws similar to bicycles, though some aspects remain undefined.

Connecticut:

Electric scooter laws resemble bicycle laws, including helmet requirements for riders under 16, sidewalk restrictions, and a 20 mph speed limit.

Delaware:

Scooters are treated like motorized skateboards and are not allowed on streets, highways, or sidewalks. However, enforcement is inconsistent.

Washington D.C.:

Scooters are classified as "personal mobility devices" with age and sidewalk restrictions. Helmets are required for shared scooter riders under 18, and a 10 mph speed limit applies.

Florida:

Scooters are legal statewide, with age restrictions and rules similar to bicycles. Scooter-sharing programs are subject to local ordinances.

Georgia:

Electric scooter laws have weight, speed, and location restrictions, with additional regulations determined by local municipalities.

Hawaii:

Comprehensive scooter laws cover age, helmet, lighting, weight, and speed restrictions.

Idaho:

Scooter laws are still developing, with local governments regulating their usage. Inquire with local law enforcement about specific regulations.

Illinois:

Electric scooters are classified as motor-driven cycles, with licensing, registration, and insurance requirements for private owners. Shared scooter regulations vary by municipality.

Indiana:

Scooters are known as "electric foot scooters" with specific criteria. They can be ridden on streets and bike paths, with local governments establishing additional regulations.

Iowa:

Scooters can be used on streets with speed limits of 35 mph or slower, sidewalks, and bike paths. Lighting requirements apply, but no licenses or insurance are needed.

Kansas:

Scooters are street-legal but not allowed on highways or sidewalks. Licensing and lighting requirements apply, but helmets are not mandatory.

Kentucky:

Scooters are treated like bicycles, with age, lighting, and location restrictions but no registration, licensing, or insurance requirements.

Louisiana:

Scooter riders need valid driver's licenses and must adhere to age, helmet, and location restrictions.

Maine:

Scooters are street-legal with speed, lighting, wheel size, engine power, and licensing restrictions.

Maryland:

Scooters are street-legal, subject to similar laws as bicycles, with a 20 mph speed limit.

Massachusetts:

Scooter riders must yield to pedestrians, wear helmets, and follow audible signaling rules. Licenses and speed restrictions apply.

Michigan:

Scooters fall under the electric skateboard category, with passenger, power, and speed restrictions. Lighting and traffic rules also apply.

Mississippi:

Mississippi's scooter laws remain largely unformed, with regulations left to local municipalities. Contact local law enforcement for specific scooter laws in your area.

Missouri:

Electric scooters are street-legal, treated like motorized bicycles, and allowed in bike lanes. Riders need a valid driver's license, and scooters must not exceed 30 mph.

Montana:

Montana treats electric scooters like motorized bicycles, allowing them on streets and bike paths but not sidewalks. Scooter riders must yield to pedestrians and follow traffic signals.

Nebraska:

Electric scooter usage is mostly unregulated statewide, with no need for registration. Riders should still follow traffic laws and avoid riding on sidewalks.

Nevada:

Electric scooters are allowed on public roads but cannot weigh over 100 lbs or exceed 20 mph. Riders must be at least 16 years old.

New Hampshire:

Statewide electric scooter regulations are lacking, but cities like Nashua and Portsmouth have laws governing shared scooters.

New Jersey:

Electric scooters are classified as "low-speed electric scooters," limited to 19 mph. Regulations for riding on trails and sidewalks vary by city. A driver's license, insurance, or vehicle registration is not required.

New Mexico:

Electric scooter regulations are left to local municipalities, with a bill under consideration for statewide governance.

New York:

State law permits electric scooter use, requiring riders to be at least 16 and wear helmets. Scooters cannot be ridden on sidewalks or streets with speed limits over 30 mph.

North Carolina:

Registration with the DMV and a valid driver's license are required for electric scooters in North Carolina. Scooters can't be ridden on roads with speed limits over 25 mph.

North Dakota:

While not specifically regulated statewide, electric scooters in North Dakota are subject to existing moped legislation. Helmets are mandatory for riders under 18.

Ohio:

Electric scooters are classified as "low-speed micromobility devices," limited to 20 mph. Riders must be 16 or older, but a driver's license or insurance is not required. Scooters can be ridden on public roads, following traffic signals.

Oklahoma:

Regulation is left to individual cities, with scooter-sharing programs in Oklahoma City, Norman, Stillwater, and Tulsa. Consult local law enforcement for specific regulations.

Oregon:

Electric scooters are treated like mopeds, allowing motors up to 100w and a 24 mph maximum speed. Individual cities can establish their own rules.

Pennsylvania:

State-level electric scooter laws are developing, with bills seeking to establish statewide rules. Regulation is currently left to individual cities.

Electric Scooter Laws in Canada

In Canada, electric scooter laws differ by province, state, and city. While most provinces do not require a license to operate an electric scooter, some places do have minimum age requirements and may mandate a driver's license. Regulations are subject to change, so always check local laws before purchasing or renting an electric scooter.

Conclusion: Scoot Smart, Scoot Safe

On the surface, electric scooters provide a convenient and environmentally friendly mode of transportation. However, to fully enjoy the ride without encountering legal troubles, it's crucial to understand and adhere to the laws and regulations governing electric scooters in your area. Remember to wear a helmet, check local laws regularly, and ride responsibly to ensure a safe and enjoyable journey. Happy scooting!