Each state in Australia has its own laws and regulations for riding e-scooters in its cities. If you don't live in Canberra, you can learn about your city's e-scooter laws here. If you live in Canberra, here's what you need to know:
2024: E scooter Laws Canberra
Things you need to know before riding an escooter in Australia
Escooter Guide for Canberra
If you came to this page looking for information on whether it is legal to ride electric scooters in Canberra, the answer is yes. Continue reading this guide to learn more about Canberra's e-scooter rules.
Minimum Age for riding an e-scooter in A.C.T
You need to be over 12 years old to ride an e-scooter on your own. If you're younger than 12, you cannot ride your e-scooter in the absence of an adult. You need to be over 16 years old to ride a shared e-scooter in Canberra. So, if you're between 12 and 16 years old and want to ride with friends after school, shared e-scooters aren't an option. You'll need to purchase an e-scooter.
Helmet Use
You must always wear an approved helmet when riding your scooter, regardless of your age. We stock the safest helmets to help you follow the law and protect yourself. Check out our guide to choosing the right helmet for you.
E-scooter on Canberra Buses/ Light Rail
If you thought you could save time by bringing a shared e-scooter on the tram, think again—it's illegal in Canberra. Only personal e-scooters are allowed, and the maximum size they can be is as shown in the picture below.
If you're thinking about getting an e-scooter in Canberra for your bus stop commute, you're onto something smart.
Just a heads-up your e scooter shouldn't block aisles, exits, or the driver's view, and it needs to be easy to hop on and off the bus with. No one wants to be that person causing a fuss. If you don't follow the rules, the driver might not allow you to board. You can’t put your e scooter in the wall mounted racks. If that area is full, you can stash it in the wheelchair-accessible spot, but only if it’s not needed for someone in a wheelchair.
But here’s the good news: grab an e-scooter from us, and you'll avoid all that drama. We've got foldable, lightweight, and sturdy options that make getting around super easy, without any extra hassle.
And just to spell it out—riding your scooter on the bus, tram, or train? Yeah, that’s a no-go in Canberra, the rest of Australia, and pretty much the whole world. 🤦🏼P.S. Please don’t ride off the bus like you’re in an action movie. Wait till you’ve deboarded before turning your e scooter on.
Speed Limit
To help you stay safe and comply with the law, all our e-scooters are limited to 25 km/hr. This ensures you are within legal speed limits and reduces the risk of serious injury in case of an accident like this one:
You cannot ride an e-scooter faster than 15 km/hr on footpaths and must stay below 25 km/hr at all times. Slow down to 10 km/hr at crossings, intersections, or when passing pedestrians. Always give way to pedestrians, stay to the left, and ride in the same direction as traffic.
Ridin' Solo and Sober
If you're riding an e scooter in Canberra, you can only ride solo. No passengers allowed. If you want to ride with your friend, you will both need your own e scooters. When riding an e-scooter in Canberra, remember that it's a solo activity—no passengers allowed. If you and a friend want to ride together, you'll each need your own scooter. Also, it's crucial not to drink and ride. Not only is it dangerous for you and others, but it's also illegal in Canberra.
Parking your e scooter in Canberra
If you're still deciding between using ride-share e-scooters or buying your own, consider this: Owning your e-scooter means you can avoid many safety issues that come from misuse or neglect. When it's yours, you'll take care of it, parking it properly and treating it with the value it deserves. But if you’re not ready to buy just yet and plan to stick with ride-share options, please treat them with the same respect. Proper care ensures everyone can enjoy a safe and convenient ride.
Frequently Asked Questions
Best Electric Scooters for adults
Zero Scooters and VSett Scooters sold by Ride Electric are the best electric scooters for adults. They meet your Australian local and national requirements and are built to last. With a network of dealers and stores all across Australia, we're able to help with all things scooters in Australia, from purchases to repairs, parts, and accessories.
Can I drive an electric scooter if I am 14 or 15?
As per Canberra Law, to be able to ride an electric scooter without adult supervision you have to be older than 12 years of age.
Therefore, if you are 14 or 15 years old and reside in Canberra, yes you can ride an electric scooter. For laws about a different city/state in Australia click here.
Do I need a license to ride my escooter in Canberra?
Escooters are considered Personal Mobility Devices which do not require a license to be used. A personal mobility device is could be an e-scooter, e-skateboard or a segway etc. which is powered by an electric motor, designed to be used only by 1 person. has 1 or more wheels and a brake system (amongst other requirements such as weight/dimensions and speed limit (mentioned above) according to section 18A of the Road Transport Regulation).
Are electric bikes and scooters making people lazy?
Electric bikes and scooters are a fantastic way to boost your activity level while shrinking your ecological footprint. Our electric scooters offer a reliable and eco-friendly alternative to car travel—it's convenient for you and better for the planet. Perfect for cutting down on your commute or giving you a quick, easy ride to the train station after a long day at work.