Wisconsin Electric Scooter Laws

  • In the state of Wisconsin an electric scooter is defined as "a device weighing less than 100 pounds that has handlebars and an electric motor, is powered solely by the electric motor and human power, and has a maximum average speed that does not exceed more than 20 miles per hour on a paved level surface when powered solely by the electric motor." An "electric scooter" does not include an electric personal assistive mobility device (think Segway), motorcycle, motor bicycle, or moped.
  • A person making a turn on the electric scooter should give the appropriate hand and arm signals, but they do not have to do so if the hand is needed to complete the turn.
  • Electric scooters are exempt from vehicle registration by the Department of Transportation.
  • Legal age for E-Bike/Electric Scooters is 16 years or older and does not require a valid drivers license. They are considered Bikes/E-Bikes by the Wisconsin Department of Transportation.
  • Operators of electric scooters must observe many of the rules of the road. Operators who violate the applicable rules of the road are subject to the same penalties as those that apply to violations committed while operating a Segway.
  • Electric scooters may be operated on most roadways, sidewalks, bicycle lanes, and bicycle ways. However, a local highway authority may by ordinance regulate the rental and operation of electric scooters.
  • Electric scooters must satisfy the same equipment requirements as Segways, including lighting and brake requirements.
  • Wisconsin Act 11 modified the definition of a motor vehicle to include electric scooters.  This means that if you operate an electric scooter while under the influence of an intoxicant, you could be charged with an OWI.
  • In the city of Oshkosh electric scooters are not allowed on side walks or park paths. They do not allow operation on roads faster than 25mph unless there is access to a bike lane. Fine for operating on side walks/park paths is $15 plus court fees the same as any bike fine. Electric scooters are regulated legally as bikes and can only be banned off sidewalks. They can not require anything extra unless they do the same regulations to bikes/ebikes. Do not let anyone convince you it is not a bike. Wisconsin Department of Transportation says they are a bike by State Law.
  • Each state has their own electric scooter laws that might be similar to Wisconsin, but they vary from state to state. Most cities have local ordinances on the operation of electric scooters. Please check your local/state laws about the regulation of electric scooters/electric bikes.