Do I need a driver's license to ride an electric scooter in 2026?

No, if the scooter is self-propelled (up to 1000 W and 32 km/h). Above that, it's a moped and requires a CNH category A or ACC.

What is the fine for riding without a plate on a scooter that becomes a moped?

The fine is R$ 293.47 (approx. USD 60), classified as a very serious infraction, and adds 7 points to your driver's license and prevents you from riding on public roads.

How do I know if my electric scooter is a moped?

Check the motor power (up to 1000 W), the factory top speed (up to 32 km/h), and width (up to 70 cm). If it exceeds any of these, it's a moped.

Do Maringá's municipal rules still apply to self-propelled scooters?

Yes, Municipal Law 11,981/2025 still applies: 20 km/h on bike lanes, 6 km/h on sidewalks, mandatory helmet, and safety items. For mopeds, federal rules apply.

Scooter Above 32 km/h: Is It a Moped? 2026 Brazil Rules

If your electric scooter exceeds 32 km/h from the factory, it's no longer just a toy in the eyes of the law. In 2026, enforcement is stricter, and this difference can be costly: a severe fine, points on your driver’s license (CNH), and even vehicle impoundment. But don’t worry—we’ll explain exactly what changed and how to know if you need to get compliant.

What changed in 2026 for electric scooters

The new rules for mopeds went into effect on January 1, 2026. They created a clear dividing line: self-propelled vehicles (scooters) on one side, mopeds on the other. There’s a lot of confusion because many owners of more powerful scooters don’t know which category they fall into.

In Maringá, under Municipal Law No. 11,981/2025, the rule for regular scooters is clear: speeds up to 20 km/h on bike lanes and 6 km/h on sidewalks. But if your vehicle is classified as a moped, these municipal rules no longer apply—national traffic laws for motorcycles take over, with all that implies.

Self-propelled or moped: which one is yours?

The technical limit is what defines your legal obligation. According to CONTRAN Resolution No. 996/2023, a scooter is considered self-propelled when it has a nominal power of up to 1000 W, a factory maximum speed of up to 32 km/h, and a width of up to 70 cm.

If it exceeds any of these limits, it becomes a moped (electric, with power up to 4 kW and speed up to 50 km/h). And then, things get serious.

Power: check that the motor has up to 1000 W. This info is on the vehicle’s nameplate or in the manual.
Speed: the actual factory speed, not what you reach on downhills.
Width: up to 70 cm, including tires and handlebars.

What changes in practice if you have a moped

Starting in 2026, mopeds require registration, licensing, and plating in the RENAVAM system. In addition, a CNH (driver’s license) category A or ACC (Authorization to Drive a Moped) is mandatory, as is wearing a helmet. This federal rule applies throughout Brazil, including Maringá.

Those who already had a moped manufactured or imported before the new rules had until December 31, 2025, to register it. If you missed the deadline, you are prohibited from driving on public roads.

Fines and enforcement in 2026

Infractions have become more expensive and more serious. Driving a moped without a plate is a very serious infraction: a fine of R$ 293.47 (approx. USD 60) and 7 points on your driver’s license. Riding on sidewalks, walkways, or bike lanes without authorization is also a very serious infraction.

There’s no middle ground. Either you are within the self-propelled limits, or you need to get registered as a moped. Street enforcement is already paying attention to this difference, especially in cities where electric mobility has grown quickly, like Maringá.

How do I know if I can ride without a driver’s license and plate?

If your scooter respects the 1000 W and 32 km/h limits, you're clear. No CNH, plate, registration, or licensing needed. This is guaranteed by Article 134-A of the Brazilian Traffic Code (CTB) and Article 12 of CONTRAN Resolution 996/2023.

Entry-level models, such as those from Foston, Bee Green, Panda, and Goo Elétricos, are designed to stay within these limits. They are ideal for daily scooter use without the hassle of registration—always respecting municipal rules, of course.

The safe path is simple: check your scooter’s power and speed. Within the law, you ride worry-free. Outside it, the cost is certain. If you’re unsure about your model, Patinep Store’s technical support can help you identify your vehicle’s specifications.