Do I need a driver's license for an electric scooter?

No, if it's a self-propelled individual mobility device within CONTRAN limits (up to 32 km/h and 1,000W). Above that, it's a moped and requires a category ACC or A license.

What is the fine for riding a scooter on the sidewalk?

A severe infraction with a fine of R$ 293.47 (approx. USD 57), if there's no municipal authorization. In Maringá, sidewalk riding is prohibited above 6 km/h.

What do I need to ride an electric scooter in Maringá?

A mandatory helmet, speedometer, bell, front and rear night lighting, and respect for speed limits: 20 km/h on bike lanes, 6 km/h on sidewalks, and up to 40 km/h on shared roads.

Can I ride a scooter that goes faster than 32 km/h?

If it exceeds 32 km/h from the factory, it's a moped. It requires a plate, registration, driver's license, and helmet. Without those, fines are severe.

Electric Scooter Fines 2026: Updated Values & Rules in Brazil

Since January 1, 2026, CONTRAN Resolution 996/2023 has been fully enforced across Brazil. It defines what counts as an electric scooter, required equipment, and penalties for non-compliance. If you use a scooter in Maringá, you also need to follow Municipal Law 11.981/2025, which sets speed limits and specific rules for bike lanes and sidewalks. In this guide, we'll get straight to the point: what the fines are, how much they cost, and how to avoid trouble. Here at Patinep Store, we're e-mobility specialists and we're ready to help you ride safely and legally.

What changed in 2026 with CONTRAN Resolution 996/2023?

Since January 1, 2026, CONTRAN Resolution 996/2023 is in full effect. It classifies scooters as self-propelled individual mobility devices, provided they have a maximum power of 1,000W, a factory top speed of 32 km/h (20 mph), width up to 70 cm, and wheelbase up to 130 cm. Above that, it becomes a moped and requires a license plate, registration, driver's license, and helmet. Another change: fines for irregularities are now enforced, whereas before they were just a recommendation.

Electric scooter fines in 2026: current amounts

Penalties were defined in December 2025 and are already being applied. Here are the key amounts:

Riding in unauthorized areas: medium infraction, fine of R$ 130.16 (approx. USD 25).
Riding on sidewalks or bike lanes without municipal authorization: severe infraction, fine of R$ 293.47 (approx. USD 57).
Riding a moped without a plate or registration: severe infraction, fine of R$ 293.47 (approx. USD 57).
Riding a moped without a helmet: severe infraction, with suspension of driving rights.

Rules under Municipal Law 11.981/2025 in Maringá

Maringá has its own rules, set by Municipal Law 11.981/2025. To summarize: on bike lanes and cycle tracks, the maximum speed is 20 km/h (12 mph). On sidewalks, squares, and parks, only 6 km/h (4 mph). On shared roads, only where the limit is up to 40 km/h (25 mph). Helmets are mandatory, along with equipment like a bell, nighttime lighting, and speedometer. No riding on expressways or roads with high speed limits.

When does a scooter become a moped?

If your device exceeds 1,000W, 32 km/h factory speed, 70 cm width, or 130 cm wheelbase, it is considered a moped. In that case, you need a plate, registration, a category ACC or A license, and a helmet. Fines for irregular mopeds are severe: R$ 293.47 (approx. USD 57), and riding without a helmet can suspend your license. So, pay close attention to your vehicle's specifications.

How to avoid fines and ride in compliance

The tip is simple: respect speed limits, use required equipment, and know your city's rules. In Maringá, ride on bike lanes at 20 km/h maximum, on shared roads up to 40 km/h, and on sidewalks at 6 km/h, with a helmet. Also check that your scooter has a speedometer, bell, and night lighting. If in doubt, Patinep Store can help you choose a model that already complies with the law.