There’s been a lot of discussion lately about the use of electric scooters, unicycles, hoverboards, etc., on the roadways in Pennsylvania.   Please take a moment and review the PA micromobility fact sheet to see what is legal to ride and where. 

Golf Carts- Title 75 (section 77a) of 2023, indicates it is unlawful to operate a golf cart on any highway.  A golf cart may be operated on private property and make a direct crossing of a highway upon compliance with the following requirements:  (1) the crossing is made at an angle of approximately 90 degrees to the direction of the highway and at a place where no obstruction prevents a quick and safe crossing.

(2) the golf cart is brought to a complete stop before crossing the shoulder or main-traveled way of the highway.  (3) the driver yields the right-of-way to all oncoming traffic.

A golf cart may not be operated by anyone under the age of 12 and a person between 12-16 years of age may not drive a golf cart across any highway unless the person is under the direct supervision of a person 18 years of age or older.

Ebikes -May be operated on sidewalks and roadways in Pennsylvania, unless prohibited by local ordinance.  They are prohibited on freeways.  They are classified as a vehicle, but not a motor vehicle and is exempt from titling, registration, insurance, etc. They should follow laws related to and be treated by motorists the same as a bicycle.

Segway- Defined as an EPAMD, Electric Personal Assistive Mobility Device- A self-balancing, two-nontandem-wheeled device designed to transport only one person with an electric propulsion system.  They are allowed to be operated on sidewalks and the berm of a roadway unless prohibited by local ordinance.  They are not required to be registered, etc.  

Electric Wheelchair- Specifically designed for and used by an individual with mobility-related disability in lieu of walking, can be used on the berm of a roadway.  These devices are not considered vehicles according to the Pennsylvania Vehicle Code.  Operators of these devices should follow laws related to and be treated by motorist the same as a pedestrian.

Electric Scooters- They are prohibited on the roadways and only be operated on private property.  

Electric Unicycles-They are prohibited on the roadways and only be operated on private property

Staying Informed -

It’s important to be aware that rules and regulations about electric scooters can change. Keep yourself up-to-date through these sources:

• PennDOT website: https://www.dmv.pa.gov/VEHICLE-SERVICES/Title-Registration/Pages/Motor-Scooters.aspx

• PennDOT Mopeds, Motor-Driven Cycles and Motorcycles Fact Sheet: https://www.dot.state.pa.us/Public/DVSPubsForms/BMV/BMV%20Fact%20Sheets/fs-momo.pdf