Do You Need a Driver's License for an E-Scooter? Brazilian Law Explained in 2026
The answer is no: you do not need a driver's license (CNH) to ride an e-scooter, as long as its maximum speed stays at 32 km/h (about 20 mph). CONTRAN Resolution 996/2023 classifies e-scooters and electric scooters as low-speed mobility equipment, waiving the requirement for a driver's license. However, there are other legal requirements you must follow — and Maringá (a city in southern Brazil) has its own rules that strengthen safety standards. In this guide, we explain everything you need to know about documentation, mandatory equipment, and how to ride safely in the city.
Driver's License Is Not Required for E-Scooters Up to 32 km/h
Federal Brazilian law is clear: e-scooters and electric scooters with a maximum speed of 32 km/h (about 20 mph) do not require a driver's license. This is the technical standard established by CONTRAN Resolution 996/2023. Any equipment exceeding this speed falls into a different category — and different requirements may apply.
This means that most e-scooters on the market, such as those from Foston, Bee Green, and Panda — which we offer here at Patinep Store — can be used without a driver's license. You don't need to obtain a license or carry any specific documentation just to ride an e-scooter.
What Is the Minimum Age to Ride an E-Scooter?
You must be at least 16 years old to ride an e-scooter without adult supervision. Brazilian federal law sets this age limit as a safety measure, ensuring that the user has sufficient maturity to control the equipment and follow traffic rules.
If you're under 16 years old, you must be accompanied by a responsible adult. This rule applies in Maringá as well — local law reinforces these requirements with no exceptions.
What Equipment Must You Carry When Riding an E-Scooter in Maringá?
Although a driver's license is not required, there is mandatory equipment you must have — and Maringá enforces this strictly. According to Municipal Law No. 11.981/2025:
- Helmet — mandatory in all situations
- Speed indicator — you must know what speed you're traveling at
- Bell or horn — to alert pedestrians and other road users
- Nighttime lighting — front and rear lights if you ride at night
These are not just recommendations: they are legally mandatory. Patinep Store offers e-scooters that come already equipped with these safety items. If yours doesn't have them, it's time to review your setup.
Speed Limits in Maringá: Where Can You Ride?
Maringá sets very clear speed limits to protect pedestrians and cyclists:
- Bike lanes and bike paths: maximum 20 km/h (12 mph)
- Sidewalks, plazas, and parks: maximum 6 km/h (4 mph)
- Shared traffic zones: permitted only on roads with speed limits up to 40 km/h (25 mph)
- High-speed roads or expressways: prohibited
These limits are much more restrictive than the e-scooter's technical capacity (32 km/h). Riding on a sidewalk at 20 km/h, for example, is illegal — you must reduce speed to 6 km/h. The mandatory speed indicator exists precisely so you know which zone you're in and what limit applies.
What's the Difference Between an E-Scooter and a Motorized Scooter?
Brazilian law distinguishes between two different types of equipment, which affects licensing requirements:
- Electric e-scooter (up to 32 km/h): no driver's license needed, minimum age 16
- Motorized scooter (above 50 cc): requires CNH category A driver's license
The difference lies in power and maximum speed. E-scooters in the category we sell at Patinep Store are classified as low-speed mobility equipment — therefore, they do not require a driver's license. More powerful motorized scooters are classified as motorcycles and have different legal requirements.