If you own an electric scooter in Maringá or are thinking about buying one, you need to know the new 2026 requirements now in effect throughout Brazil. Since the beginning of the year, CONTRAN Resolution 996/2023 has been fully applied in the enforcement of rules for self-propelled individual mobility devices.
The good news? You do not need a driver's license, a license plate, or RENAVAM registration for electric scooters. However, there are clear rules about where you can ride, required equipment, and fines—and that is exactly what we will explain in this practical guide.
Keep reading to avoid trouble and ride 100% within the law.
Do electric scooters require a driver's license or license plate in 2026?
No. Electric scooters do not require a driver's license, an ACC permit, a license plate, or RENAVAM registration. This is provided for in Article 12 of CONTRAN Resolution 996/2023, under Article 134-A of Brazil's Traffic Code (CTB).
This rule applies to scooters with a maximum speed of up to 32 km/h (about 20 mph). Anyone selling or using scooters above that limit may fall into a different vehicle category.
At Patinep Store, every scooter we sell complies with this technical limit—which means you leave the store ready to ride legally.
Where can I ride an electric scooter in 2026?
Riding rules have become clearer and more specific. Nationwide, under Resolution 996/2023, you may ride:
- Sidewalks and pedestrian areas: up to 6 km/h (about 4 mph)
- Bike paths, bike lanes, and bicycle routes: up to 20 km/h (about 12 mph), or the limit set by the road authority
- Roads with a posted speed limit of up to 40 km/h (about 25 mph): permitted, traveling with the flow of traffic
In Maringá, Municipal Law No. 11.981/2025 reinforces these same speeds: 20 km/h on bike paths and 6 km/h on sidewalks, in squares, and in parks. Riding on high-speed roads or streets with a speed limit above 40 km/h is prohibited.
Required equipment: what your scooter must have
As of 2026, enforcement requires 3 pieces of equipment on your scooter: an electronic speed indicator or limiter, a bell, and front, rear, and side nighttime lighting or reflectors (Article 3 of Resolution 996/2023).
In practice, if your scooter does not have these items, it is not compliant. Most modern models come from the factory with them—but it is always worth checking.
At Patinep Store, all scooters from the Foston, Bee Green, Panda, and Goo Elétricos brands that we sell already include this equipment as standard. If you bought yours elsewhere and are not sure, bring it to our service center and we will check it.
Can minors ride electric scooters? Is there an age limit?
Resolution 996/2023 does not establish a nationwide minimum age—but it allows municipalities to set their own rules. Many cities have already set the minimum age at 16 or 18.
In Maringá, Municipal Law 11.981/2025 sets the minimum age at 16 to ride without an accompanying adult. Anyone under 16 must be accompanied by a responsible adult.
In addition, carrying a passenger or giving someone a ride on the back is prohibited—an electric scooter is an individual vehicle. This applies throughout Brazil.
Does Brazil's drunk-driving law apply to electric scooters? What about helmets?
Yes, Brazil's drunk-driving law applies to electric scooters. Operating one under the influence of alcohol or psychoactive substances is prohibited and subject to penalties under the CTB, Brazil's Traffic Code.
Helmet: nationwide, it is recommended but not mandatory. However, municipal laws may make it mandatory. In Maringá, Law 11.981/2025 requires helmet use.
Therefore, if you ride in Maringá, wear a helmet—it is required by municipal law and also improves your safety.
Fines and violations: what can happen in 2026?
Fines for those who descu