If you use an electric scooter in Maringá or are thinking about buying one, you've probably asked yourself: does an electric scooter pay IPVA? Do I need a plate? Is a driver's license required? In 2026, with enforcement of CONTRAN Resolution 996/2023 across the country, these questions have become even more common. The direct answer is: no, electric scooters do not pay IPVA, do not need a plate, do not require licensing or a driver's license—as long as they fall into the category of self-propelled personal mobility devices. In this guide, we'll explain exactly what changed, what applies to Maringá, and how to avoid confusion with the new rules. Keep reading to stay fully informed.

Electric scooters don't pay IPVA in 2026: what the law says

CONTRAN Resolution 996/2023, fully in effect since January 1, 2026, classifies electric scooters as "self-propelled personal mobility devices." For this, the vehicle must have rated power up to 1000 W, factory maximum speed up to 32 km/h, width up to 70 cm, and wheelbase up to 130 cm.

  • No registration, licensing, or plate required for this category.
  • No IPVA charged, as the scooter is not considered a motor vehicle.
  • No driver's license required, but minimum age is 16.

In other words, for the vast majority of scooters sold in Brazil, including Foston, Bee Green, Panda, and Goo Elétricos models, there's no IPVA or plate.

What changes in practice with CONTRAN Resolution 996/2023

In practice, CONTRAN Resolution 996/2023 reorganizes traffic rules but doesn't turn your scooter into a moped. Article 12 of the resolution and Article 134-A of the Brazilian Traffic Code (CTB) make clear that self-propelled equipment is not subject to registration or licensing. G1 reported on 11/18/2025 that these vehicles don't pay IPVA. So keep using your scooter normally, without bureaucracy.

And mopeds? When do plate and driver's license become mandatory?

If the scooter exceeds 1000 W of power or has a factory top speed above 32 km/h, it stops being self-propelled and is classified as a moped. In that case, 2026 rules require: helmet, plate, and a category A driver's license or ACC (Authorization to Drive a Moped).

Simply put: if you add a seat, a motorcycle throttle, or tamper with the speed limit, your scooter becomes a different vehicle. So pay attention to factory specifications.

Scooters in Maringá: what Municipal Law 11.981/2025 says

In Maringá, Municipal Law 11.981/2025 complements federal rules. Even without a plate or IPVA, you must respect local speed limits:

  • Bike lanes and cycle tracks: max 20 km/h
  • Sidewalks, squares, and parks: max 6 km/h
  • Shared roads: only allowed on roads with limit up to 40 km/h
  • Helmet use is mandatory

Additionally, the scooter must have a speed indicator, bell, and night signaling. Respecting these rules avoids fines and ensures your safety and that of pedestrians.

Frequently asked questions about IPVA, plates, and scooters

To wrap up, we've gathered the main questions we receive here at Patinep Store. Here are direct answers:

  • Does an electric scooter pay IPVA in 2026? No. Self-propelled personal mobility devices are exempt from IPVA.
  • Does an electric scooter need a plate? No, as long as it respects power limits (≤1000 W) and speed (≤32 km/h from factory).
  • Does an electric scooter require a driver's license? No, a driver's license isn't required. You just need to be 16 or older. For mopeds, a category A or ACC license is required.
  • What happens if I put a seat on my scooter? If the seat reclassifies it as a moped, you lose the exemption and will need a plate, helmet, and driver's license. That's why it's important to know the factory specifications.