Electric scooters are scooters with an electric drive – agile, small and easy to transport thanks to a folding mechanism. They are much more practical than other alternative modes of transport such as motorcycles and cars and therefore a lot of people and tourists love to drive them through the city. With the regulation for small electric vehicles, there is now a legal basis for the use of these electric scooters. But where are the electric scooters allowed to drive, do you need a driver’s license and what fines threaten if you don’t follow the rules? In this article we will explain all the rules and regulations for electric scooters. Let’s start!
Are Electric Scooters Street Legal? Yes, electric scooters are street legal, especially in the US. You can easily check that information in the papers you received when buying and look for a “street-legal” tag in your electric scooter. Electric scooters that are classified as street-legal don’t require a license or registration.
Note: Electric scooters that do not need registration must not exceed top speed up to 20 mph (32 kmh), and must have an electric motor that is less than 750 W (1.01 hp) of power.
Best Electric Scooters That Are Street Legal:
Model: Max Speed: Range: Power: Available:
1. eFlux Freeride X2 45 km/h 35 km 2000 W Check Price
2. Razor EcoSmart 29 km/h 20 km 500 W Check Price
3. Egret TEN V4 25 km/h 40 km 556 W Check Price
4. Winkine 2000W 65 km/h 80 km 2000 W Check Price
5. SOFLOW SO2 20 km/h 40 km 500 W Check Price
6. GigaByke Groove 32 km/h 56 km 750 W Check Price
7. eFlux Street 40 35 km/h 30 km 800 W Check Price
8. Doohan iTank 45 km/h 112 km 1500 W Check Price
9. Velix E-kick 20 20 km/h 40 km 350 W Check Price
10. Hawk 3000 50 km/h 60 km 3000 W Check Price
What Does „Street Legal“ Mean For Electric Scooters?
The Federal law passed in 2002 defined that electric bikes as “three or two-wheeled vehicle that can reach a maximum speed up to 20 mph (32 kmh) and with the electric motor that is less than 750W (1.01 hp) of power.” Therefore, if an electric scooter has a performance that meets these criteria, it’s street legal and you don’t need a license and registration.
The driving characteristics of the electric scooter are similar to that of a bicycle. Therefore, in principle, the same rules should apply to them as to bicycles. They are only allowed on cycle paths, cycle lanes and cycle streets. If they are not available, they are allowed on the road, even outside built-up areas.
Scooter drivers must give pedestrians absolute priority on combined cycle and footpaths. Pedestrians must not be hindered or endangered. If there is any danger, it is not enough to ring the bell. Rather, the driver must immediately ensure that they can brake in good time when they recognize a possible dangerous situation.
Example: A electric scooter driver had seen a pedestrian who was walking backwards while taking photos on the footpath. She rang the doorbell, but he didn’t respond. She was injured in the collision. The Court rejected your request for compensation for pain and suffering. It said the woman was solely responsible for the accident. Pedestrians must be able to move safely and unhindered on combined cycle and footpaths.
Where Are Electric Scooters Allowed to Drive?
E-scooters are allowed on cycle paths, cycle lanes and cycle streets. Only if these are missing, it is allowed to use the road. Small e-scooters are forbidden on the sidewalk, in the pedestrian zone, and in one-way streets opposite to the direction of travel – unless driving is permitted by the additional sign “Electric scooter free”.
10 Best Street Legal Electric Scooter
In the following lines, we will briefly introduce you to the best street-legal electric scooters. So if you are looking for an electric vehicle with which you can commute to work, university or school every day, then you should take a closer look at the following models.
1. eFlux Freeride X2
Specifications:
- Power: 2000 W
- Max Speed: 45 km/h
- Max Range: 35 km
- Battery: 12 Ah
The eFlux Freeride X2 is particularly interesting for people who value high quality, do not have that much budget, and are looking for a street legal electric scooter at the same time. The model has wave disc brakes in the front and rear, can reach up to 45 km/h and meets the highest safety standards. Due to its tires, not only is a short braking distance guaranteed, but the electric scooter can also be driven perfectly on off-road terrain.
Of course, Freeride X2 has the enormous thrust that is impressive. The motor has an output of around 2000 watts, and it works at around 60 volts. The battery has a charge capacity of around 12 Ah, which will take you quite a long way. Depending on the driving style, the maximum range is around 35 kilometers, provided that the battery is fully charged. This model is particularly popular due to its road approval, which means that the scooter can be used perfectly in everyday life.
2. Razor EcoSmart Metro
Specifications:
- Power: 500 W
- Max Speed: 29 km/h
- Max Range: 20 km
- Battery: 9 Ah
The Razor EcoSmart Metro is one of the best picks on our list if we look at the price range, speed, ease of use and transportation. This model is super flexible and it requires less storage space unlike other electric scooters. Although this electric model does not have a beautiful design, it is a pleasure to drive and it is very light. Of course, this electric scooter is street-legal.
The EcoSmart Metro can go up to 18 mph and it has a solid battery that lasts for 40 minutes of riding. It comes with a 500 W motor and hand-operated rear brakes that can stop the scooter instatly. It takes about 15 minutes to assemble this scooter to have it ready to ride. The only weak point of this model is the battery, which could be much better, because it cannot cover long distances with only one charge.
3. Egret TEN V4
Specifications:
- Power: 556 W
- Max Speed: 25 km/h
- Max Range: 40 km
- Battery: 10.4 Ah
The Egret Ten V4 is the best e-scooter we have tested and convinces as a real all-rounder: It is ahead of the competition in almost all categories, so it does a lot of things right. The scooter is well made and leaves little to be desired in terms of equipment. An odometer is included as well as a speedometer and a side stand as well as a height-adjustable handlebar. The finger throttle accelerates in six speed levels, and the handles can also be folded. The disc brakes round off the lavish equipment.
Its handling and suspension are also good, only the braking distance is 1.9 meters relatively long. This is certainly also due to the weight, at 18.6 kilograms, which makes him a comparatively heavy. On the other hand, the battery lasts a long time. 556.8 watt hours are generous, while the range of 44.5 kilometers is more than sufficient. The lithium battery charges for a relatively long time at 404 minutes (about 6.5 hours).
4. Winkine 2000W eScooter
Specifications:
- Power: 2000 W
- Max Speed: 65 km/h
- Max Range: 80 km
- Battery: 21.8 Ah
The Winkine 2000W is the electric scooter that differs from its competition in many ways. This model has a 2000W electric motor, fat-tires that give great stability during ride, and a cool design. You can reach a top speed of 30 mph by Winkine, while the range is 50 miles with the 21.8 Ah lithium-ion battery. As already mentioned, the great stability provided by the Winkine while driving is a great advantage and can withstand up to 350 lbs of weight.
It comes with front LED light, hydraulic disc brake system and front suspension. This scooter is street-legal. Although it is a bit more expensive than the other models on this list, it is definitely worth taking for those who like the design and driving style that Winkine provides.
5. SOFLOW SO2
Specifications:
- Power: 500 W
- Max Speed: 20 km/h
- Max Range: 40 km
- Battery: 36 V
The SoFlow SO2 is the best street legal electric scooter under $1,000 and impresses above all with its long range of 32 kilometers and its easily exchangeable battery. The battery can be removed without much effort and charged independently of the scooter. In the three other test categories of handling, driving characteristics and equipment, however, the SO2 did not come out with a “satisfactory” rating. The driving behavior of the scooter is rather poor, especially the decelerated, and sluggish acceleration plays a major role here.
The electric motor is definitely a bit too weak, especially for the permitted total weight of 120 kilograms. The SO2 reaches its limits very quickly, especially uphill. The processing of the SoFlow is also below the average of the competing models. This is partly due to the loose handlebars: Even when fully engaged, the handlebars give way too much to the front and back. That must not be the case and in the worst case it can represent a real security risk.
6. GigaByke Groove
Specifications:
- Power: 750 W
- Max Speed: 32 km/h
- Max Range: 56 km
- Battery: 14 Ah
The GigaByke Groove is an electric scooter that has two integrated pedals and looks like a bicycle. This model also don’t require a driver’s license. The Groove has built-in 750W motor and can reach a speed up to 20 mph. It is very comfortable, stable while driving and has a great design. The distance that GigaByke Groove can cover depends on the battery pack and the terrain you are driving on, but on average it can cover between 25-30 miles (60-70 km) per signel charge.
This model comes with a front LED headlight, rear LED turn signals making it safe for night driving. It has a built-in LCD display that shows the battery status, the speed at which you are driving, and how many more kilometers you can cover. Charging time is 6 hours, which is a solid time for an electric scooter.
7. eFlux Street 40
Specifications:
- Power: 800 W
- Max Speed: 35 km/h
- Max Range: 30 km
- Battery: 8 Ah
The eFlux Street 40 is also a street legal electric scooter. It even has a small basket behind the seat that you can use comfortably to store your purchases in it. As far as the top speed is concerned, this electric scooter can reach a maximum of 35 km/h. A modern automatic transmission is also installed. The acceleration can also be clearly felt because the 800-watt motor pushes hard. Perforated wave disc brakes are used here, which quickly bring the eFlux Street 40 to a standstill.
Good brakes are particularly important in road traffic! The range is 30 kilometers per full battery charge. However, you should note that the maximum permissible total weight is 110 kg. Of course, the model is delivered with a certificate that confirms the roadworthiness of the eFlux Street 40.
8. Doohan iTank
Specifications:
- Power: 1500 W
- Max Speed: 45 km/h
- Max Range: 112 km
- Battery: 28 Ah
The Doohan iTank is one of the first, modern electric scooters that comes with 3 wheels. This model is adorned with a unique design, excellent features, and quality driving stability. With the iTank you can move not only on flat terrain but also on uneven surfaces thanks to the built-in hydraulic suspension system. It is powered by a 1500 W electric motor that has a 28 Ah 60V lithium-ion battery with which you can go 70 miles on a single charge.
The maximum speed that iTank can reach is 28 mph, which is pretty impressive for the 3 wheel model. iTank does not have a very impressive turning radius, as normal electric scooters have, so keep that in mind. This electric scooter is also street-legal and doesn’t require a license or registration. We can say that the only real disadvantage of this model is its price, which is not very small. But if you plan to use it often, you will save a lot of money with this scooter.
9. VELIX E-KICK 20
Specifications:
- Power: 350 W
- Max Speed: 20 km/h
- Max Range: 40 km
- Battery: 10.4 Ah
If you like it long rides and pleasantly sprung, you should take a look at the Rolektro Velix E-Kick 20. It impresses with its good range and very good cushioning, making it ideal for city use, even on cobblestones. With the SXT e-scooter, you have to cut back on handling. It is very heavy and only offers one-speed step. In our opinion, the model is still very cheap, and scores satisfactorily in the test with a strong tendency to achieve a good result.
The equipment is a bit slimmed down compared to the competition. The handlebars are not height-adjustable and there is no ignition key. Furthermore, the handles of the handlebars cannot be folded, which could lead to problems, especially when transporting the scooter. The braking distance of around 2.3 meters is okay.
10. Hawk 3000
Specifications:
- Power: 3000 W
- Max Speed: 50 km/h
- Max Range: 60 km
- Battery: 20 Ah
The Hawk 3000 is a particularly high-quality street-legal electric scooter, but it also comes at a proud price above $2000. This scooter weighs an impressive 110 kilograms and, thanks to the 3000 watt motor, can move a lot, the maximum payload is a whopping 183 kilograms. This means that two people can ride this two-wheeler on the road without any problems. A driver’s license of class AM or higher is required to operate this electric scooter.
The range of this model is a good 60 kilometers. However, a range of 60 kilometers is sufficient for most drivers in everyday life. The scooter has a charging time of 4 hours, but comes with a lead battery and is therefore less efficient than other scooters with lithium-ion batteries. Another advantage of this model is the low maintenance requirements. The wheel hub motor, disc brakes and the construction of electric motors make the scooter very low-maintenance. Ideally suited for short journeys, which are not a burden for an electric motor.
Is There an Alcohol Limit For Electric Scooters?
Many users of electric scooters believe that you can drive them even if you have drunk a little too much. It is noted that in the first 8 weeks after the electric scooters were approved in many major cities, the police caught more than 20% drunk drivers, many with over 1.1 per mille. E-scooters are motor vehicles because of their motor so the same rules apply for them.
The same alcohol limits apply as for cars. From 0.5 per mille there is a fine of $550, two points and one month’s driving license withdrawal. A criminal offense exists from 1.1 per mille. If there are alcohol-typical failures, this even applies from around 0.3 per mil. The limit is higher for cyclists. Drunkenness is punishable only from 1.6 per mille. The same limit applies to electric bikes, where the engine only runs when you are pedaling.
Electric Scooter Laws: What Happens If You Ignore it?
In the event of these violations of the E-Scooter Act, the following fines are due:
- Driving over a red traffic light: $70 – $200
- Telephoning without a speakerphone: $60
- Driving against the one-way street: $25 – $40
- Driving without lights: $25 – $40
- Driving on the sidewalk: $20 – $40
- Driving side by side: $20 – $35
- Driving without a bell: $20
NOTE: Penalties vary from country to country, so this is an average price.
The Pros of a Electric Scooter That Are Street Legal
- You can save money in the long run.
- They are very cheap and affordable.
- They are easy to use and maneuver.
- You can get to your destination very quickly.
- You do not need a parking space.
No helmet, No driving License, Minimum Age 14 Years
The limitation of the maximum speed up to 20 mp/h (32 km/h) also means that the scooters do not fall within the scope of the helmet requirement. A driver’s license is not yet required. The minimum age for drivers is 14 years. In addition, the scooter must have a vehicle identification number. Buyers should pay attention to these guidelines.
The vehicle must be equipped with two independent brakes and, like a bicycle, have lighting – although the lamps can be removable. Yellow reflectors are provided so that the driver can be better seen from the side in the dark. In addition, a bell – or alternatively a signal that clearly has a warning character.
Can You Also Drive the Electric Scooter in Winter?
Rain, snow, ice: Anyone who is out and has an e-scooter in winter must be particularly careful. Because then the risk of an accident is greater. With our tips you will still reach your goal safely:
- Preselect drive lower and accelerate carefully
- Controlled braking: Shift your weight back and make sure you are standing firmly
- On uneven ground: bend your knees + stand leg back, step leg forward
- If in doubt, prefer to dismount
- Avoid manhole covers, flagstones and cobblestones
- Wear a helmet and shoes with non-slip soles
Conclusion
Now that you have a better insight into the fact that some electric scooters are street-legal and that you don’t need a driver’s license to ride it, you can take a break. Unfortunately, many scooters are not street legal because they do not meet certain criteria and therefore do not meet the requirements of the road traffic regulations. Electric scooters that have less than 750W and a maximum speed of up to 20 mph do not need registration. Therefore, in this article, we briefly introduce you to the best electric scooters that are street legal. We hope you liked this article, and if you have some questions, just ask in the comment section below.