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Electric scooter laws and helmets: what to check before your first ride
Updated
There is no single US scooter law. States, cities and even campuses set their own rules on where you can ride, how fast, how old you must be and whether you need a helmet. CPSC says the rules differ by place and to follow your local traffic laws. It also says to always wear a bicycle helmet, whatever the law says.
What to look up for your town
- Where you can ride. Street, bike lane, sidewalk or path. Many cities ban sidewalk riding.
- Speed limits. Some places cap scooter speed below what our picks can do. Most of them have a slower mode you can use.
- Minimum age and helmet rules. Often stricter for younger riders. Segway lists age 16 and up for both of its scooters here.
- Lights. Many places require a front light and rear reflector or light at night.
- Parking and transit. Your train, bus, office or campus may limit folding scooters or charging indoors.
- Battery rules. Some cities require UL 2272. See UL 2272 explained.
Your city's transportation department and your state's DMV page are the places to check. This page is not legal advice.
Why a helmet matters on a scooter
CPSC estimates that injuries from e-scooters rose 22 percent in 2022 from 2021. Head and neck injuries are among the most common, with arms and legs. NHTSA notes many scooter crashes are single-vehicle falls on poor pavement, and that injuries are likely to be worse when a car is involved. A bicycle helmet that fits snugly and sits level is the minimum. On a 22 MPH scooter, many riders step up to a helmet rated for faster riding.
Ride so drivers see you
- CPSC says most deaths involve motor vehicles. Assume drivers do not see you, especially in parking lots and garages.
- Use lights, reflectors and a bell. Do not make sudden moves.
- One rider only, and never ride after drinking or drug use.
- Keep both hands on the bars and slow down for bumps.
Speed and our picks
Listed top speeds run from 15.5 MPH on the Gotrax GXL V2 to 22 MPH on the Segway MAX G2 and Hiboy MAX Pro. If your city caps scooters lower, use the eco or middle mode. It also stretches your range, as the calculator shows.
Scooter rules differ by state, city and campus. This page is general information, not legal advice. Check your own local rules before you ride.
Next: put your own battery and weight into the range calculator, or see the 6 commuter scooters on the short list.