Electric Scooter Laws by State in 2026: Complete Guide

Electric scooters have taken over American cities — but the rules vary wildly from state to state. Before you ride, here's everything you need to know about electric scooter laws in the United States in 2026.

Federal vs. State Regulations

There is no single federal law governing electric scooters. Instead, each state sets its own rules regarding speed limits, age requirements, helmet use, and where you can ride. Some cities add their own local ordinances on top of state law.

Electric Scooter Laws by State: Top 10 Most Populated

California

• Max speed: 15 mph on public roads
• Age requirement: 16+
• Helmet: Required under 18
• Where to ride: Bike lanes, roads with speed limits ≤ 25 mph, sidewalks prohibited
• License/registration: Not required

Texas

• Max speed: 35 mph (classified as motor-assisted scooter)
• Age requirement: 16+
• Helmet: Required under 21
• Where to ride: Roads, bike lanes; sidewalk rules vary by city
• License/registration: Not required under 35 mph

Florida

• Max speed: No state limit (local rules apply)
• Age requirement: 16+
• Helmet: Required under 16
• Where to ride: Roads, bike lanes, sidewalks (unless locally prohibited)
• License/registration: Not required

New York

• Max speed: 15 mph
• Age requirement: 16+
• Helmet: Required under 18 (all ages in NYC recommended)
• Where to ride: Bike lanes, roads; sidewalks prohibited
• License/registration: Not required

Pennsylvania

• Max speed: 15 mph
• Age requirement: 16+
• Helmet: Required under 18
• Where to ride: Bike lanes, roads with speed limits ≤ 25 mph
• License/registration: Not required

Illinois

• Max speed: 15 mph
• Age requirement: 16+
• Helmet: Recommended, not required
• Where to ride: Bike lanes and roads; Chicago has specific rules
• License/registration: Not required

Ohio

• Max speed: 20 mph
• Age requirement: 16+
• Helmet: Not required
• Where to ride: Roads, bike lanes, multi-use paths
• License/registration: Not required

Georgia

• Max speed: 20 mph
• Age requirement: 15+
• Helmet: Required under 16
• Where to ride: Bike lanes, roads ≤ 35 mph, sidewalks prohibited in business districts
• License/registration: Not required

North Carolina

• Max speed: 20 mph
• Age requirement: 16+
• Helmet: Required under 16
• Where to ride: Bike lanes, roads; sidewalks allowed unless locally banned
• License/registration: Not required

Michigan

• Max speed: 25 mph
• Age requirement: 12+
• Helmet: Required under 19
• Where to ride: Roads, bike lanes, sidewalks (with pedestrian priority)
• License/registration: Not required

Key Takeaways

• Most states cap speed between 15-25 mph on public roads
• Minimum age is typically 16 years old
• Helmets are required for minors in almost every state
• Sidewalk riding is prohibited in most major cities
• No state currently requires a driver's license for low-speed e-scooters

Tips for Riding Legally

1. Always check your city's local ordinances — they often differ from state law
2. Wear a helmet regardless of legal requirements
3. Use lights and reflectors when riding at night
4. Carry liability insurance if available in your state
5. Register your scooter if your city requires it

Looking for a reliable electric scooter that meets US regulations? Browse our electric scooter collection — all models ship free within the US with a 2-year warranty.