Starting January 1, 2026, CONTRAN Resolution 996/2023 is fully in effect for electric scooters. In practice, that means every scooter riding in Brazil must have front and rear lights, a bell, and a speed indicator. If yours doesn't yet, it's time to get compliant.

In Maringá, municipal law 11.981/2025 also reinforces the need for nighttime signage and a bell. And the good news: all of this can be solved with little money and without swapping your scooter.

In this guide, I'll show you exactly what you need to check and install to be 100% legal in 2026 — and avoid fines that can reach R$ 880.41 (approx. USD 175). Let's get straight to the point?

What the 2026 Law Requires of Your Electric Scooter (Full Checklist)

Article 3 of CONTRAN Resolution 996/2023 defines three mandatory pieces of equipment. Nothing else is required on the vehicle:

  • Speed indicator — can be a speedometer, an electronic limiting device, or even a smartphone app with an audible alert.
  • Bell — a simple item sold for less than R$ 20 (approx. USD 4) at any bike shop.
  • Nighttime signs — white front light, red rear light, and side reflectors built into or attached to the scooter.

Most scooters sold by Patinep Store already come with front and rear lights. If yours doesn't, reflectors and clip-on LED lights solve the problem for under R$ 50 (approx. USD 10).

Be careful: the equipment must be attached to the scooter. A flashlight in your backpack or pocket doesn't count.

How to Install Lights and a Bell on Your Scooter (Without Spending Much)

You don't need to buy anything high-tech. Want to handle it at home? Follow these simple steps:

  • Front light: choose an LED headlight with rubber mount (the same used on bicycles). Attach it to the handlebar and angle it slightly downward to avoid blinding pedestrians. Cost: between R$ 30 and R$ 80 (approx. USD 6–16).
  • Rear light: use a red light with a clip or silicone mount, installed behind the stem or at the end of the deck. Cost: R$ 20 to R$ 60 (approx. USD 4–12).
  • Side reflectors: adhesive reflective tape costs less than R$ 10 (approx. USD 2) and can be applied to the side of the deck.
  • Bell: a mechanical bike bell is ideal — it fixes to the handlebar in seconds. If you prefer, buy an electric one with a louder sound for up to R$ 40 (approx. USD 8).

Don't like DIY? Patinep Store's own technical support installs everything for you in Maringá. We test it and also check that the speed indicator is working.

What Happens If You Don't Make Your Scooter Legal? (Fines Explained)

The answer is simple: a fine and points on your driver's license, if you have one. CONTRAN Resolution 996/2023 lists in Article 19 the applicable CTB (Brazilian Traffic Code) violations:

  • Riding on a prohibited road — medium violation: fine of R$ 130.16 (approx. USD 26) and 4 points on your license.
  • Riding on sidewalks, footpaths, or unauthorized bike lanes — severe violation: fine of R$ 880.41 (approx. USD 175) and 7 points.

And here's a critical point for those riding in Maringá: our municipal law 11.981/2025 uses exactly these rules. A scooter without lights and a bell is, in practice, an invitation for inspection.

Rules for Riding in Maringá: Where to Ride Your Scooter in 2026

Having the equipment isn't enough: you also need to know where you're allowed to ride. Maringá's rules (Law 11.981/2025) are clear:

  • Bike lanes and cycle tracks: maximum speed of 20 km/h.
  • Sidewalks, squares, and parks: maximum speed of 6 km/h.
  • Fast or busy roads: prohibited.