There is no single federal law for riding an electric scooter in the United States. Each state decides how e-scooters are defined and where they can be ridden, and cities often add their own rules on top. Here is how e-scooter laws work across the US in 2026, with guides for California, Miami and New York.
How e-scooter rules work in the US
- States define what counts as an electric scooter, and set rules on age, helmets, licences, top speed and which roads you can use.
- Cities and counties can add stricter rules, such as sidewalk bans, lower speed limits, parking rules and permits for shared rental scooters.
- Most states treat e-scooter riders much like cyclists, and most do not require registration or insurance.
California
California allows motorized scooters on roads with a speed limit of 25 mph or less, and in bike lanes on faster roads. Riders need a driver's licence or instruction permit, riders under 18 must wear a helmet, the maximum speed is 15 mph and sidewalk riding is not allowed. Read our full guide: Electric scooters in California.
Florida: Miami
Florida gives scooter riders the same rights and duties as cyclists, with no licence, registration or insurance required, and lets cities set their own rules on sidewalks, minimum age and photo ID. The City of Miami is considering a citywide ordinance, and Miami Beach has adopted new safety rules. Read our full guide: Electric scooters in Miami.
New York
New York State has allowed e-scooters since 2020. Riders must be at least 16, riders aged 16 and 17 must wear a helmet, and sidewalks are off-limits. New York City has a 15 mph speed limit for e-scooters and requires scooters sold in the city to be UL 2272 certified. Read our full guide: Electric scooters in New York.
Before you ride anywhere in the US
- Check your state's vehicle code and your city's rules, especially for sidewalks and speed limits.
- Wear a helmet, even where it is not required for adults.
- Use a front light and rear light or reflector at night.
- Never ride under the influence: impaired riding laws can apply to e-scooters.
Hazel Studios ships the HAZEL 1.0 folding electric scooter to the United States. For rules in other countries, see our guides to e-scooter laws in Canada and e-scooter laws in the UK.
This guide is a general summary, not legal advice. Rules can change, so always confirm the current requirements with your state and city.