As electric scooters continue to gain popularity across urban and suburban areas, many riders are curious about where these devices can be operated, especially on highways. A common question among young riders is, “Are electric scooters allowed on highways?” The simple answer is that electric scooters are generally not allowed on highways. This limitation is primarily due to safety concerns, including the significant speed differences between scooters and highway traffic, the lack of appropriate infrastructure for scooters on highways, and the overall design of these vehicles, which is better suited for lower-speed urban environments.

Key Features and Considerations for Electric Scooters on Highways

Before delving into specific state regulations, it is essential to understand why electric scooters are restricted from highways and what general rules apply across the United States:

• Speed Limit Differences: Highways are designed for high-speed vehicles, typically with speed limits ranging from 45 to 75 mph. Electric scooters, with their lower speed capabilities, cannot safely integrate into this fast-moving traffic.
• Infrastructure Incompatibility: Highways lack the necessary infrastructure, such as bike lanes or protected paths, that would allow for the safe operation of electric scooters. This infrastructure is more commonly found on city streets and suburban roads where scooters are primarily intended to be used.
• Safety Concerns: The significant speed differential between scooters and other vehicles on the highway poses a severe risk of accidents. Additionally, scooters are less visible to drivers on highways, especially at higher speeds, increasing the likelihood of collisions.

State-by-State Regulations for Electric Scooters on Highways

Understanding the specific regulations in each state is crucial for safe and legal scooter operation:

California

Highway Use: Electric scooters are not allowed on highways where the speed limit exceeds 35 mph unless there is a designated Class II or IV bikeway.

Permitted Roads: Scooters can operate on roads with speed limits up to 35 mph, and they must use bike lanes when available.

Speed Limit: Scooters are restricted to a maximum speed of 15 mph on all roads.

Licensing: Riders must have a valid driver’s license or learner’s permit.

Helmet Requirement: Helmets are mandatory for riders under 18 years old.

Sidewalk Use: Operating scooters on sidewalks is prohibited except where local laws permit.

For more details, refer to our post on California Electric Scooter Laws.

New York

Highway Use: Electric scooters are not allowed on highways and are restricted to roads with speed limits of 30 mph or less.

Local Regulations: Local municipalities have the authority to impose additional restrictions or permissions, making local laws crucial.

Licensing: No special license is required, but riders must obey all bicycle traffic laws.

Helmet Requirement: Helmets are required for riders under 18 years old and for all Class 3 e-bikes.

Speed Limit: Electric scooters should not exceed the posted speed limits, typically capped at 20 mph.

Sidewalk Use: Generally prohibited, with scooters required to use bike lanes or roads.

For more information, check out our guide on Are Electric Scooters Allowed on Airplanes.

Georgia

Highway Use: Electric scooters are not allowed on highways where the speed limit exceeds 35 mph.

Permitted Roads: Scooters can be used on roads with speed limits of 35 mph or less, ensuring safer operation in lower-speed areas.

Licensing: A valid driver’s license or learner’s permit is required.

Helmet Requirement: Helmets are mandatory for all riders, emphasizing safety.

Speed Limit: Scooters must adhere to the road’s speed limits, typically not exceeding 20 mph.

Sidewalk Use: Generally prohibited except where local ordinances allow it.

Colorado

Highway Use: Electric scooters are not allowed on highways unless a local ordinance explicitly permits it.

Permitted Roads: Scooters are allowed on roads with speed limits of 30 mph or less, making them suitable for urban and suburban settings.

Licensing: No specific license is required, but riders must follow the same traffic laws as cyclists.

Helmet Requirement: Helmets are highly recommended, especially in high-traffic areas.

Speed Limit: Scooters should not exceed the speed limits of the roads they operate on, usually capped at 20 mph.

Sidewalk Use: Sidewalk use varies by locality, so riders should check local regulations.

Texas

Highway Use: Electric scooters are not allowed on highways with speed limits above 35 mph to minimize the risk of accidents in high-speed traffic.

Permitted Roads: Scooters can operate on roads with speed limits up to 35 mph.

Licensing: No special license is required, but scooter riders must follow the same traffic laws as other vehicles.

Helmet Requirement: While not mandated by state law, helmets are strongly encouraged.

Speed Limit: Scooters must not exceed 20 mph, adhering to posted speed limits.

Sidewalk Use: Generally prohibited unless local ordinances allow it, focusing on road or bike lane use.

Florida

Highway Use: Electric scooters are not allowed on highways where the speed limit exceeds 35 mph, aligning with safety protocols for slower-moving vehicles.

Permitted Roads: Scooters can be used on roads with speed limits up to 30 mph, ensuring they operate within safer lower-speed environments.

Licensing: A valid driver’s license or learner’s permit is required to legally operate an electric scooter.

Helmet Requirement: Helmets are mandatory for all riders under 16 years old.

Speed Limit: Scooters must adhere to a maximum speed limit of 20 mph on all permitted roads.

Sidewalk Use: Generally prohibited, with exceptions only where local ordinances specifically allow it.

To learn more, read our guide on How Fast Do Electric Scooters Go.