KNOW YOUR DEVICE

This summarizes the distinctions reflected in the PennDOT guidance.

Bicycle

• Human-powered
• May ride in bike lanes
• May use many sidewalks
• Yield to pedestrians
• Front light and rear reflector required after dark
• Helmets required under age 12
• DUI laws still apply

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E-Bikes

• Must have operable pedals
• Maximum motor 750 watts
• Maximum motor-only speed 20 MPH
• Operator must be at least 16
• Same rules as bicycles
• DUI laws apply

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Motorized Pedalcycles

Examples:

• Gas mopeds
• Electric mopeds

Requirements:

• Minimum age 16
• Class C driver's license
• Cannot use limited-access highways
• Maximum speed 25 MPH
• DUI laws apply

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Motor Scooters

Examples:

• Honda Metropolitan
• Genuine Buddy
• Vespa-type scooters

Requirements:

• Registration required
• Insurance required
• License required
• Helmet required for riders under 21 (subject to statutory exceptions)
• Passenger restrictions
• Lights required
• DUI laws apply

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Electric Scooters

Not specifically recognized by Pennsylvania Vehicle Code

This means they generally cannot legally be operated on Pennsylvania highways, including roads, sidewalks, or bike lanes, unless Pennsylvania law changes.

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Did You Know?

✔ DUI laws can apply to many micromobility devices—not just cars.

✔ Helmets are always the safest choice, even when not legally required.

✔ Lights are required when operating after dark on devices where specified by law.

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Helpful Tips

• Wear a helmet.
• Be visible after dark.
• Obey traffic signals.
• Yield to pedestrians.
• Ride predictably.
• Never operate while impaired.

NBTPD Officers have the discretion of issuing a citation or a warning when enforcing the Pennsylvania Vehicle Code. If stopped for operating one of the electric devices on the roadway, sidewalk, or trail, you may be issued a citation that incurs a fine.

FOR THOSE WHO STILL OPERATE A BICYCLE THE OLD-FASHION WAY, CHECK OUT Bicycle Safety and Pennsylvania Laws.