If you own an electric scooter or are thinking about buying one, you need to know: 2026 has changed enforcement. With CONTRAN Resolution 996/2023 now fully in effect, integrated operations between municipal guards and traffic police are already on the streets of Maringá and across the country. The target? Scooters tampered to exceed 32 km/h and mopeds invading bike lanes and sidewalks. That means the old trick of unlocking the speed limiter can cost you: a fine of R$ 293.47 (approx. USD 58), 7 points on your CNH (Brazilian driver's license), and even vehicle seizure. But don't worry: you can ride legally and hassle-free—just understand the rules and follow a few tips. In this guide, you'll see what changed, where you can ride, what fines exist, and how to protect yourself.
What's Changing in 2026? Integrated Inspections Target Scooters
In 2026, enforcement on electric scooters got serious. According to Jornal Repercussão, municipal governments and Detrans (state traffic departments) have started conducting integrated operations with municipal guards and traffic police, specifically targeting scooters and mopeds. The two main targets are:
- Speed limiter tampering – scooters caught exceeding 32 km/h are reclassified and, without a license, are seized.
- Mopeds and heavy mini-vehicles invading bike lanes and sidewalks – this puts cyclists and pedestrians at risk.
In other words, enforcement is no joke. But if you follow the rules, there's no reason to worry.
Speed Limit: 32 km/h is the Cap
CONTRAN Resolution 996/2023 defines electric scooters as low-speed mobility devices with a technical limit of 32 km/h. Scooters exceeding that—through unlocking or modification—are treated as mopeds. This changes the requirements: registration, license plate, licensing, and a driver's license (ACC or Category A CNH).
Without these documents, the fine is severe: R$ 293.47 (approx. USD 58) and 7 points on your CNH, plus vehicle seizure. So keep the factory limiter. It's not worth the risk.
Where to Ride in Maringá: Rules under Municipal Law 11.981/2025
In Maringá, Municipal Law 11.981/2025 sets specific limits:
- Bike lanes and cycle tracks: maximum speed 20 km/h.
- Sidewalks, squares, and parks: maximum speed 6 km/h.
- Shared roads: allowed only on roads with a speed limit up to 40 km/h.
Additionally, you must wear a helmet, have a speed indicator, a bell, and nighttime lighting. Riding on fast roads or streets with high speed limits is prohibited. Respect these limits—it's the law.
Fines and Penalties in 2026: Updated Values
The fines for mopeds and tampered scooters in 2026 are hefty. Check the current amounts:
- Riding a moped without a plate/registration/licensing or without a helmet: severe infraction, R$ 293.47 (approx. USD 58) and 7 points on your CNH (not wearing a helmet also suspends your CNH).
- Riding a moped on sidewalks, pedestrian paths, or bike lanes without authorization: severe infraction, fine of R$ 880.41 (approx. USD 176) and 7 points.
- Riding in a prohibited area: medium infraction, R$ 130.16 (approx. USD 26) and 4 points.
- Driving an unregistered/unlicensed vehicle: R$ 293.47 (approx. USD 58) and 7 points.
- Vehicle without a license plate: R$ 293.47 (approx. USD 58) and 7 points.
- Riding without documentation: vehicle impoundment.
And remember: the Zero Tolerance Law applies to scooters. No alcohol when riding.
How to Avoid Fines and Ride 100% Legally
The rule is simple: keep your scooter as it came from the factory. Don't unlock speed limiters, respect speed limits on each road, use mandatory equipment, and never carry passengers (scooters are single-rider).
If your model has a motor above 1 kW or exceeds 32 km/h, treat it as a moped: register it, get a license plate, and obtain an ACC or Category A CNH. When in doubt, check the documentation or contact Patinep Store.
Have a More Powerful Scooter? How to Get Compliant
Some models available on the market may have