In 2026, electric mopeds require registration, licensing, a license plate, and a driver's license to operate legally. This requirement has been enforced since the regularization deadline ended on December 31, 2025.
However, this rule does not apply to every two-wheeled electric vehicle. Scooters classified as self-propelled individual mobility devices remain exempt from registration, license plates, licensing, and a driver's license (CNH), as long as they meet the technical limits set by the National Traffic Council (CONTRAN) Resolution No. 996/2023.
The main difference lies in the motor power and the maximum factory speed. Equipment with a motor up to 1 kW and speeds up to 32 km/h falls into the self-propelled category. In contrast, an electric moped has a motor from 1 kW to 4 kW or speeds between 32 km/h and 50 km/h.
In Maringá, you must also comply with Municipal Law No. 11.981/2025, including helmet use, speed limits, and mandatory equipment. Below, find out how to identify your vehicle and what steps to take.
Does an electric moped need a license plate and CNH in 2026?
Yes. Electric mopeds require registration, licensing, a license plate, and a CNH (driver's license) of category ACC or B to operate in 2026. Wearing a helmet is also mandatory, along with compliance with all other applicable traffic rules.
This requirement is set by CONTRAN Resolution No. 996/2023, which regulates mopeds, electric bicycles, scooters, and other self-propelled individual mobility equipment.
The deadline for regularizing mopeds ended on December 31, 2025. Therefore, effective enforcement has become a key concern for anyone using this type of vehicle in Maringá and the state of Paraná.
What's the difference between a self-propelled scooter and an electric moped?
A self-propelled scooter does not need a plate or CNH if it stays within the limits of up to 1,000 W and up to 32 km/h from the factory. An electric moped, on the other hand, has a motor of 1 kW to 4 kW or speeds between 32 km/h and 50 km/h.
- Self-propelled individual mobility equipment: motor up to 1 kW, maximum factory speed up to 32 km/h, width up to 70 cm, and wheelbase up to 130 cm.
- Electric moped: motor from 1 kW to 4 kW or speeds between 32 km/h and 50 km/h.
The easiest way to start identifying your device is to check its specification label, the manual, and the purchase invoice. Classification does not depend solely on the trade name used by the seller.
What documents and equipment are required?
For electric mopeds, registration, licensing, RENAVAM (Brazilian national vehicle registry) identification, license plate, CNH category ACC or B, and a helmet are required. The vehicle must also meet the technical and documentation conditions required by the traffic authority.
For self-propelled scooters, there is no requirement for registration, plate, licensing, or CNH as long as they remain within the limits of CONTRAN Resolution No. 996/2023. Even so, users must respect mandatory equipment and municipal rules.
In Maringá, Municipal Law No. 11,981/2025 requires a speed indicator, a bell, and nighttime lighting. Helmet use is mandatory, and riding is limited to 20 km/h on bike lanes and cycle paths and 6 km/h on sidewalks, squares, and parks.
What happens if an electric moped is without a license plate?
After December 31, 2025, riding an electric moped without registration, licensing, or a license plate can result in a very serious infraction, a fine of R$ 293.47 (approximately USD 59), and vehicle impoundment. Other penalties under the Brazilian Traffic Code (CTB) may also apply.
Cited among the applicable infractions are articles 230, IV and V, regarding the absence of a plate and lack of registration or licensing. Article 244 also provides penalties for riding without a helmet.
Enforcement takes into account the correct category of the vehicle. Therefore, before riding, it's worth confirming