Motorized Scooter Safety & Law

Whether using a personal scooter or renting a shared-use rideable to reach your destination, all motorized scooter operators are expected to ride responsibly, respect pedestrians, and help keep our city’s streets and walkways safe and accessible for everyone. Riders are encouraged to review the guidelines on this page to understand age requirements, driver’s license rules, helmet laws, and exactly where these devices are permitted to operate.

What is a Motorized Scooter?

California Vehicle Code (CVC) § 407.5(a) defines a motorized scooter as any two-wheeled device that has handlebars, is powered by an electric motor (or other power source), and features either a floorboard designed to be stood upon while riding or a seat and footrests in place of the floorboard. State law distinguishes motorized scooters from mopeds, motorcycles, and e-bikes.

Laws and Regulations

• Age and Licensing: California law requires that all motorized scooter operators be at least 16 years of age and possess a valid driver’s license or instruction permit (CVC § 21235).
• Helmets: Helmets are strictly legally required for all motorized scooter operators under the age of 18. 
• Where to Ride: State law directs motorized scooter users to utilize bike lanes or separated bikeways. If a street has a speed limit greater than 25 mph, you must ride within a designated class II bike ne or or class IV separated bikeway. If no bike lane or bikeway is present on a street where the speed limit exceeds 25 mph, it is illegal to operate a motorized scooter on that roadway.
• Keep Off Sidewalks: For the protection of people walking, State law prohibits using a motorized scooter on a sidewalk, except when actively entering or leaving adjacent property (CVC § 21235). Sidewalk riding carries a fine of up to $207 in the City of Sacramento. 
• Speed Limits and Passengers: The maximum legal speed limit for a motorized scooter is 15 mph. Additionally, it is unlawful to carry any passengers—scooters are strictly for single riders only. 
• Responsible Parking: Never park a scooter on a sidewalk in a manner that blocks pedestrian access, ramps, doorways, or crosswalks. When using shared rental scooters, please park them upright in designated drop zones or at public bike racks to keep our walkways clear and accessible for everyone.