Can I ride an electric scooter on the sidewalk?

Only if the local government allows it, and the maximum speed is 6 km/h (3.7 mph). In São Paulo, riding on the sidewalk above this speed is prohibited.

What changed in the electric scooter rules in 2026?

Nothing changed in federal law. Some cities, such as Rio de Janeiro, attempted to create their own rules, but the measure was challenged in court for exceeding the federal government's authority.

What is the maximum speed for a seated electric scooter?

Under CONTRAN Resolution 996/2023, the maximum factory speed is 32 km/h (20 mph). On public roads, you must follow the road's speed limit, which cannot exceed 40 km/h (25 mph) for this vehicle category.

Where can I buy a seated electric scooter in Maringá?

Patinep Store in Maringá sells models from Foston, Bee Green, Panda, and Goo Elétricos, with in-house technical support and genuine replacement parts.

Seated Electric Scooter: 2026 Riding Rules in Brazil

Q: Do I need a driver's license for a seated electric scooter in 2026?

No, as long as the scooter has a maximum speed of 32 km/h (20 mph) and power of 1,000 W, under CONTRAN Resolution 996/2023. More powerful models are classified as mopeds and require a category A driver's license.

Seated electric scooter: what changes in 2026?

In 2026, the rules for seated electric scooters continue to follow CONTRAN Resolution 996/2023, which classifies these vehicles as self-propelled individual mobility devices (EMIs, the Brazilian legal category for certain light electric vehicles). This means that, for most models sold in Brazil, you do not need a driver's license, vehicle registration, or licensing.

However, some cities have introduced their own rules. Rio de Janeiro Municipal Decree 57,823/2026, for example, began treating seated electric scooters as mopeds, requiring a driver's license and registration. The measure was challenged by the Public Prosecutor's Office, which argues that the city exceeded its federal authority.

What does federal legislation say (CONTRAN Resolution 996/2023)?

The resolution classifies a seated electric scooter as a self-propelled device if it has maximum power of 1,000 W, a maximum speed of 32 km/h (20 mph), and a maximum width of 70 cm (27.6 in). In these cases, you do not need a driver's license, license plate, or insurance.

Article 6 of the regulation also makes it clear that municipalities may regulate where and how these vehicles operate, including sidewalks, bike paths, and hours of use, but they cannot reclassify the product to impose additional requirements.

Where can I ride a seated electric scooter in 2026?

Under the federal rule, riding is allowed on:

Bike paths and bike lanes — whenever available;
Roads with speed limits of up to 40 km/h (25 mph) — when no bike path is available;
Sidewalks and pedestrian areas — only if the local government authorizes it, and at reduced speed (maximum 6 km/h, or 3.7 mph).

Riding on roads with speed limits above 40 km/h (25 mph) or on highways is prohibited.

What about São Paulo? Does it have its own rules?

Yes. In São Paulo, municipal legislation (see the official sources) requires electric scooter riders to be at least 18 years old. In addition, riding on sidewalks is prohibited when the scooter's speed exceeds 6 km/h (3.7 mph) — in practice, sidewalks are only allowed when walking alongside the vehicle.

This applies to all models, including seated scooters.

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

No, as long as the scooter falls within the limits established by CONTRAN Resolution 996/2023 (up to 32 km/h or 20 mph and 1,000 W). Models that exceed these limits are classified as mopeds and require a category A motorcycle license, registration, and a helmet.

Be aware that some municipalities, including Rio de Janeiro, have attempted to require a driver's license for all models, but the measure is currently under judicial review. The safest approach is to check local rules before riding.

Tips for buying a seated electric scooter in 2026

When choosing your seated electric scooter, check that its power and speed comply with federal law. Models from brands such as Foston, Bee Green, Panda, and Goo Elétricos — sold by Patinep Store in Maringá — meet the requirements for use without a driver's license.

When shopping, ask about range, which is typically between 20 and 40 km (12 to 25 miles) per charge, and charging time, which generally ranges from 3 to 6 hours. Charging costs are low: between R$ 0.10 and R$ 0.30 (approximately USD 0.02 to USD 0.06) per full charge, depending on the local electricity rate.