Does an electric bike with throttle require a driver's license in 2026? Understand the current rule
If you have an electric bike with a throttle and live in Brazil, pay attention: since January 1, 2026, the rules have changed with the full implementation of CONTRAN Resolution 996. But do you need a driver's license? The answer is: it depends on the power and speed of your model. In this guide, we explain everything simply and directly, and we also show the situation in Maringá-PR, where a specific municipal law also regulates usage.
What does CONTRAN Resolution 996/2023 say?
The resolution classifies vehicles into three categories. The “pure” electric bicycle, with pedal assist and no throttle, does not require a driver's license, license plate, or registration. The throttle bike, however, is classified as a Self-Propelled Individual Mobility Device, provided it respects the limits of 32 km/h and 1000W of power. In that case, no driver's license is required.
However, if the vehicle exceeds these limits (more than 1000W or more than 32 km/h), it is then considered a moped. In that case, you must have ACC or a category A driver's license, as well as RENAVAM registration, license plate, and annual licensing.
Practical summary of the new law
- Electric bicycle (pedal assist): no driver's license, no plate, no registration.
- Throttle bike up to 1000W and 32 km/h: no driver's license, no plate, can circulate where scooters circulate.
- Moped (above 1000W or 32 km/h): requires ACC or category A driver's license, plate, RENAVAM, and licensing.
What about Maringá? Municipal Law 11.981/2025 in detail
Maringá has its own legislation that applies to all individual electric mobility devices. According to Municipal Law No. 11.981/2025, the maximum allowed speed is:
- 20 km/h on bike lanes and cycle paths;
- 6 km/h on sidewalks, squares, and parks;
- Prohibited on fast roads or streets with a limit above 40 km/h.
Additionally, in Maringá, the use of a helmet is mandatory along with safety items such as a speed indicator, a bell, and night signaling. In other words, even without needing a driver's license, you must be equipped and respect local limits.
What changes in practice for those using a throttle bike?
If your bike has a throttle but does not exceed 32 km/h and 1000W, you do not need to get a driver's license — but you should treat it like a “big scooter”. This means you cannot ride on fast traffic roads, you should use bike lanes whenever possible, and respect the maximum speed in each location.
If your bike has been modified (or is factory-made) with more than 1000W or a speed above 32 km/h, it is legally a moped. In that case, riding without a driver's license/ACC, without a plate, and without licensing is a very serious infraction, with a fine of R$ 293.47 (approx. USD 59), 7 points on your license, and vehicle retention at the Detran yard. Regularization requires the CAT (Certificate of Adequacy to Traffic Legislation) or, for models prior to the resolution, CSV (Vehicle Safety Certificate) + inspection report + invoice.
How to regularize your electric bicycle or moped?
To avoid problems, follow the step-by-step:
- Check the power and maximum speed of the motor (usually found in the manual or on the vehicle's label).
- If it's up to 1000W and 32 km/h: make sure you have a bell, signaling, and speedometer, and respect Maringá's law.
- If it's above that (moped): contact Detran-PR to obtain the CAT or CSV, plate, and annual licensing. You can also...