If you’re interested in getting an electric scooter then you’re probably wondering if you need a license. To clarify, electric kick scooters are those that look like razor scooters, not the ones that look like vespas, although I don’t think either require a license in Canada. This blog is specifically for Electric Kick Scooters, so if you’re interested in buying one of those, be sure to check out this blog to learn about licensing requirements for your scooter in Canada.
In Canada, riding an electric scooter doesn't require a license. This is great news for a lot of people, making it easier for everyone to get around. Whether you're young or old, or even if you don't have a driver's license, you can hop on an e-scooter and go.
Rules for Riding E-Scooters in Canada
Even though you don't need a license to ride an electric scooter in Canada, there are still some rules you may need to follow, especially if you're in a city like Toronto, Ontario. Here's what you need to know:
- Age Limit: You have to be at least 16 years old to ride an e-scooter.
- Helmets for the Young: If you're under 18, you need to wear a helmet. This is for your safety.
- Stay Off Sidewalks: E-scooters aren't allowed on sidewalks or places meant just for walking. This keeps everyone safe.
- Where You Can Ride: You can ride on paths or bike lanes that are meant for multiple uses, but only if the local laws say it's okay. In most cases, you can only ride your electric scooter on private property.
- Parking: When you're done riding, you have to park your e-scooter in a spot that's meant for them. Make sure you're not blocking the way for others.
- Speed and Power Limits: Your e-scooter can't go faster than 24 km/h (that's about 15 mph), and the motor can't be more powerful than 500 Watts.
These rules apply to electric scooter riders in Toronto, but those rules might not apply to you. Take Oshawa for example, although it’s only 30 minutes from Toronto it has a completely different approach to scooters. In the Durham region you can legally ride an electric scooter with fewer rules and regulations in place. Before you ride your electric scooter be sure to research the rules specific to your province and city!
Why It's Good There's No License Requirement
Not needing a license for e-scooters means that there is a lot more accessible transportation to those who need it most.
- Great for Teens: Young people who are at least 16 can ride e-scooters, giving them a way to get around on their own. A lot of 16 year olds could go out and get their learners permit (G1) but they likely can’t afford driving lessons for their G2 let alone a car to drive once they have their license. An electric scooter is a far more convenient mode of transportation for young adults to get to school or work with ease.
- A Second Chance: If you don't have a driver's license, or if it's been taken away, you can still use an e-scooter to get where you need to go. In many rural towns across Canada, electric scooters have been a popular replacement of vehicles for those who have lost their licenses. Living in a rural area means that everything is pretty spread out, not having a vehicle or a license makes it hard to get around, luckily e-scooters don’t require a license, even if you have a DUI!
- Helpful for Older Adults: E-scooters are easy to use and can help older people stay mobile and active. Older adults don’t always drive, and taking the bus can be a dangerous and exhausting experience for them. Luckily electric scooters can be used to get around, offering great suspension, range, and slow speeds making the ride safe and comfortable for older adults.
In Canada, the fact that you don't need a license to ride an e-scooter is a pretty big deal, it improves accessibility for the youth, those without a license and older adults. Getting around is a lot easier and more accessible with an electric scooter, they’re a relatively low cost means of transportation. So, even though you don't need a license to ride an electric scooter, you still have to follow the local rules and regulations. Be sure to check the rules where you live, stay safe on the roads, and enjoy riding your e-scooter.