The grace period is over. Since January 1, 2026, Contran Resolution No. 996 is fully enforced across Brazil, with no leniency. In practice, this means enforcement on electric scooters, mopeds, and electric bicycles is now active — including in Maringá.

If you use an electric scooter to commute or ride around town, you need to understand whether your vehicle falls within the limits the law defines as self-propelled (no plate, no driver's license, no registration) or whether it has been reclassified as a moped — which requires a license and registration.

In this guide, we explain simply and directly what changed, what you need to check on your scooter's spec sheet, and how to ride legally. If you prefer, our team at Patinep Store is ready to help you verify your model.

What Defines a Self-Propelled Scooter After Contran Resolution 996

Article 2, item II of Contran Resolution 996 defines a self-propelled vehicle cumulatively — meaning the vehicle must meet all the criteria below simultaneously:

  • Motor with a nominal power of up to 1,000 W;
  • Factory top speed of up to 32 km/h;
  • Maximum width of 70 cm;
  • Wheelbase of up to 130 cm.

If your scooter meets these limits, it is considered self-propelled. If not, it is reclassified as a moped (up to 4 kW and 50 km/h) or motorcycle — with all the requirements for a driver's license, registration, and licensing.

This check is simple: look at the spec sheet that came with your product or check the manual. If in doubt, at Patinep Store you can check models from Foston, Bee Green, Panda, and Goo Elétricos — all with options within the self-propelled limits.

Who Is Exempt from a Driver's License, Plate, and Registration — and Who Is Not

Article 12 of Contran Resolution 996 guarantees that riders of self-propelled vehicles do not need a driver's license (CNH), registration, license, or plate. You just need to be 16 or older and follow traffic rules.

However, if your scooter has a 2,000 W motor and reaches 70 km/h, it is no longer self-propelled and falls under the category of moped. In that case, as of 2026, you need an ACC (Moped Riding Permit) or a Category A driver's license (CNH), as well as registration and a plate. Riding without such a license in this category is a very serious infraction (Article 162 I of the Brazilian Traffic Code).

Mandatory Equipment Every Scooter Must Have

Even without a plate, self-propelled vehicles must have items provided for in Article 3 of the resolution:

  • Speed indicator or electronic speed limiter — can be replaced by a sound alert or a smartphone app;
  • Bell;
  • Night signaling at the front, rear, and sides.

Here in Maringá, Municipal Law No. 11,981/2025 also requires the use of a helmet — the federal rule only recommends it, but the city can be stricter. For safety, always wear one.

These items are low-cost and easy to install. At Patinep Store, we have accessories and we make sure your scooter stays legal.

Where to Ride an Electric Scooter in 2026

Article 9 of Contran Resolution 996 sets maximum speeds by road type:

  • Sidewalks and pedestrian areas: up to 6 km/h;
  • Bike lanes and cycle tracks: the road's regulated limit (in Maringá, 20 km/h under Law 11.981/2025);
  • Roads with a speed limit of up to 40 km/h: respect the vehicle's limit (32 km/h from the factory).

It is prohibited to ride on high-speed roads or where the speed limit exceeds 40 km/h.