EBIKES AND SCOOTERS - PA LAW
The Lower Windsor Township Police Department strongly encourages parents to review this information to ensure children are operating their e-vehicles in accordance with the law.
Electric scooters, E-Bikes and more have become a popular way to get around, but their legal status in Pennsylvania can be confusing. Here’s a breakdown of where you can and can’t legally ride your electric vehicles. Also, click on the links below to see PennDOT Bike Safety and the “Micromobility Fact Sheet” PDF – which includes E-bikes, motor scooters, motorized pedalcycle and segways.
Rules of the Road:
Pennsylvania law is quite strict when it comes to electric scooters on public roads. The Commonwealth considers them vehicles, meaning they are not exempt from titling and registration requirements as set forth by PennDOT and would be required to pass equipment standards and inspection requirements. However, most electric scooters don’t have the necessary equipment (like turn signals and mirrors) to meet these registration and inspection requirements. This effectively makes them illegal to ride on Pennsylvania roads.
Use the following links to access information on the General Bicycle Laws in PA and two-wheeled vehicles:
DCNR policy regarding e-bikes being operated in state parks and forests:
https://www.pa.gov/agencies/dcnr/recreation/what-to-do/biking/ebike-policy
Sidewalk Use On Electric Scooters:
You might think sidewalks are a safer option, but Pennsylvania law also prohibits electric scooters on sidewalks - Title 75 – Section 3703
Where Can I Legally Ride An Electric Scooter:
The primary place you can legally ride your electric scooter in Pennsylvania is on private property. If you have a large yard, or obtain permission from a landowner, you can use your scooter there. Stay Informed It’s important to be aware that rules and regulations about electric scooters can change.
E-Dirt Bikes:
FAQ: Where can I operate an Electric Dirt Bike? On private property or trails that allow such activity.
FAQ: How is an electric dirt bike different from an E-Bike / Scooter? The electric dirt bikes are specifically designed for off-road use only. They exceed the restrictions on MPH.
FAQ: Can I register my E-dirt bike? NO, They can not be registered in Pennsylvania as they do not have Vehicle Identification Numbers (VIN)
FAQ: Can I register my motorized dirt bike or ATV? Yes, with the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR)
FAQ: How do I know if it's an e-bike or something else? See the PennDOT Micromobility Fact Sheet stated regulations for each category.
LWTPD officers have the discretion of issuing a citation or a warning when enforcing the Pennsylvania Vehicle Code. If stopped for operating one of these vehicles/bikes on the roadway or sidewalk, you may be issued a citation that incurs a fine.
