Do electric scooters need a driver's license in 2026?

No, if it is classified as a self-propelled individual mobility device with a speed limit of 32 km/h and power up to 1,000 W. Models above that are mopeds and require an ACC or a Category A CNH.

What is the maximum speed of an electric scooter in Maringá?

On bike lanes and cycle tracks, the limit is 20 km/h. On sidewalks, squares, and parks, only 6 km/h. The device can be built for up to 32 km/h, but the road sets the limit.

What changed in scooter classification in 2026?

CONTRAN Resolution 996/2023 was fully implemented on January 1, 2026, ending the deadline for regularizing old mopeds. Now enforcement clearly separates self-propelled devices, electric bicycles, and mopeds.

How do I know if my scooter needs a license plate?

Check if the model has a maximum factory speed above 32 km/h or power above 1,000 W. If yes, it's classified as a moped and requires a plate, registration, and licensing.

Can electric scooters ride on the street in Maringá?

Yes, but only on roads with a speed limit of up to 40 km/h. It's prohibited on high-speed roads or streets with elevated limits. Helmet and signaling items are mandatory.

Electric Scooter Classification 2026: What Changes in Practice

What Changed in Electric Scooter Classification in 2026

Since January 1, 2026, CONTRAN Resolution No. 996/2023 (Brazil's National Traffic Council) has been fully enforced across Brazil. The deadline for regularizing older mopeds ended on December 31, 2025, so enforcement is now clearer.

In practice, the 2026 electric scooter classification defines three main categories: self-propelled individual mobility devices, electric bicycles, and mopeds. Each has specific registration rules, speed limits, and rider requirements.

For scooter users in Maringá, the news is good: most models sold today fall under the self-propelled category and require no license plate, registration, or driver's license (CNH).

Self-Propelled Devices: The Category for Most Scooters

Self-propelled individual mobility devices are those that don't require human effort to move. This is where most electric scooters sold in Brazil fit.

To maintain this classification, the vehicle must have a maximum factory speed of up to 32 km/h (20 mph) and a nominal power of up to 1,000 W. Within these limits, there's no need for plate, RENAVAM (national vehicle registration) registration, or annual licensing.

In Maringá, municipal law No. 11.981/2025 complements the federal rule with local limits: 20 km/h (12 mph) on bike lanes and 6 km/h (4 mph) on sidewalks. Even if the device allows 32 km/h, the road sets the limit.

Electric Bicycles vs. Self-Propelled Devices: Understanding the Difference

The 2026 electric scooter classification clearly separates electric bicycles from self-propelled devices. The main difference lies in the propulsion system.

Electric bicycles operate only with pedal assist—they cannot have a manual throttle. The auxiliary motor must be limited to 32 km/h. Like self-propelled devices, they don't require plates, registration, or a CNH.

Scooters with a throttle (almost all models) are self-propelled, not bicycles. That's why it's essential to verify the model respects the 32 km/h and 1,000 W limits before buying.

Mopeds: When RENAVAM Registration Is Mandatory

Electric vehicles with characteristics that exceed what's allowed for self-propelled devices or electric bicycles are classified as mopeds. In this case, the bureaucracy increases significantly.

For mopeds, the rider needs an ACC (moped permit) or a Category A CNH, a helmet, RENAVAM registration, a license plate, and annual licensing. This applies to any vehicle that exceeds 32 km/h or 1,000 W of power.

Important: for mopeds manufactured or imported before the resolution, the deadline for RENAVAM registration ended on December 31, 2025. Those who didn't regularize missed the window and need to seek guidance from Detran (the state traffic department).

Maringá's Local Rules Remain in Effect in 2026

CONTRAN Resolution allows municipalities to set their own limits based on technical studies. Maringá has used this prerogative since 2025 with Law No. 11.981.

Here, the maximum speed on bike lanes and cycle tracks is 20 km/h. On sidewalks, squares, and parks, the limit drops to 6 km/h. On shared roads, riding is only allowed where the road's speed limit is up to 40 km/h (25 mph).

Helmet use is mandatory in all situations. Also required: a speed indicator, a bell, and nighttime signaling. Be careful: riding on high-speed roads or streets with elevated speed limits is prohibited.

Brands like Foston, Bee Green, Panda, and Goo Elétricos offer models that fit the self-propelled category, with typical range between 20 and 40 km (12–25 miles) per charge.

What to Consider When Buying a Scooter in 2026

When choosing an electric scooter, the first step is to confirm the model fits the self-propelled category. Check the maximum factory speed and nominal power on the spec sheet.

Entry-level scooters cost between R$ 1,800 (approx. USD 360) and R$ 3,500 (approx. USD 700). Models