A self-propelled vehicle is one that moves using its own motor power, without relying exclusively on the user's physical effort. In the context of micro-mobility, this term is often associated with electric kick scooters and low-speed electric scooters.

The main difference from a moped lies in the vehicle category, motorization, and legal requirements. Electric kick scooters classified as low-speed mobility devices do not require a driver's license (CNH) when they respect the technical limit of up to 32 km/h (20 mph). Motorized scooters above 50 cc, on the other hand, require a Category A driver's license.

In Maringá, you also need to observe Municipal Law No. 11.981/2025, which defines where these devices can circulate, speed limits, and mandatory equipment. For this reason, understanding what "self-propelled" means helps you choose the right vehicle and use it within the rules.

What does self-propelled vehicle mean?

A self-propelled vehicle is equipment that has its own motor and moves without the user needing to continuously push it. It can be used for urban commuting, as long as its category and characteristics comply with applicable regulations.

In electric micro-mobility, the term is associated with compact devices like electric kick scooters and electric scooters. They are designed for short to medium trips, with typical ranges between 20 and 40 km (12–25 miles) per charge, depending on the model.

Is a self-propelled vehicle the same as an electric kick scooter?

An electric kick scooter can be considered a type of self-propelled vehicle, but the terms are not exactly synonymous. "Self-propelled" describes how it works: the vehicle has its own propulsion. "Electric kick scooter" identifies a specific type of device.

For the user, the most important information is to check the vehicle's classification, maximum speed, and local rules. Under CONTRAN Resolution 996/2023, electric kick scooters and electric scooters are classified as low-speed mobility devices, with a maximum vehicle speed of 32 km/h.

What is the difference between a self-propelled vehicle and a moped?

The main difference is that low-speed electric kick scooters and electric scooters belong to a different category than mopeds. For electric kick scooters in this category, a driver's license (CNH) is not required up to the 32 km/h limit.

Motorized scooters above 50 cc require a Category A driver's license. So, it's not enough to just look at the vehicle's shape: you need to consider the motorization and legal classification.

  • Low-speed self-propelled vehicle: category associated with micro-mobility, such as electric kick scooters and electric scooters.
  • Moped above 50 cc: requires a Category A driver's license.
  • Electric kick scooter: can be a low-speed self-propelled device.

What are the rules for self-propelled vehicles in Maringá?

In Maringá, the circulation of self-propelled vehicles depends on the location and the speed limit set for each space. Municipal Law No. 11.981/2025 also establishes mandatory equipment and requires the use of a helmet.

  • On bike paths and bike lanes, the maximum speed is 20 km/h (12 mph).
  • On sidewalks, squares, and parks, the maximum speed is 6 km/h (4 mph).
  • On shared traffic roads, circulation is only allowed on roads with a speed limit of up to 40 km/h (25 mph).
  • It is prohibited to circulate on expressways or high-speed streets.
  • The device must have a speed indicator, a bell, and nighttime signaling.
  • Helmet use is mandatory.

The minimum age is 16 years old without an accompanying adult, according to CONTRAN Resolution 996/2023. Before riding, check if your route is compatible with these rules.

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