After All, Has Your Scooter Become a Moped? What Changed in 2026

Yes, if your electric scooter has power above 1000 W, a top speed above 32 km/h (or comes with an independent throttle on an electric bicycle), since January 1, 2026, it is considered an electric moped, not an individual mobility device anymore. The rule is not new – it's in CONTRAN Resolution 996/2023 – but enforcement is now stricter.

In practice, anyone with this type of vehicle without licensing is prohibited from riding on public roads. In Maringá, besides the federal rule, you must also comply with Municipal Law 11.981/2025, which limits speeds on bike lanes and sidewalks. Here at Patinep Store, we've already served customers who were surprised by the change.

This guide (updated in September 2026) explains exactly where your scooter fits, what to do if you haven't legalized it in time, and how our technical support can help. Let's get straight to the point.

How Do I Know If My Scooter Is a Moped or an Electric Kick Scooter?

The answer lies in the manufacturer's technical specifications, not the vehicle's appearance. Resolution 996/2023 defines a self-propelled individual mobility device (electric kick scooter) as one that has:

  • Nominal power up to 1000 W;
  • Maximum factory speed up to 32 km/h;
  • Width up to 70 cm;
  • Wheelbase up to 130 cm.

If all these limits are met, you don't need a license plate or a driver's license. However, if the vehicle has higher power, exceeds 32 km/h, or is an electric bicycle with an independent throttle (instead of only pedal-assist), it automatically falls into the moped category.

Tip: Check the technical label on your scooter or the invoice. Manufacturers like Foston and Goo Elétricos list power and top speed. If you're still unsure, drop by our store in Maringá and we'll check it for you.

What Changes for Those Who Already Have an Unregistered Moped? The Deadline Has Passed

Here's the part that catches most consumers: Resolution 996/2023 (art. 14) gave a period for vehicles that were already on the road before the new classification to be included in the RENAVAM. This deadline ended on December 31, 2025. After that, anyone who hasn't complied is banned from riding on any public road.

In practice, if you bought an electric scooter in 2024 or 2025 and it qualifies as a moped, you now need to start the licensing process. Without it, you'll face fines during enforcement, and the vehicle will be seized. There's no legal loophole – the rule is clear.

But don't panic: for scooters with power up to 1000 W and speeds limited to 32 km/h, the self-propelled device rule still applies – no registration needed. That's why most scooters in our store (Foston, Bee Green, Panda) remain legal without a driver's license – only the out-of-spec versions need a plate.

What Does Maringá's Regulation Say About Mopeds and Kick Scooters?

In Maringá, Municipal Law No. 11.981/2025 sets speed limits regardless of the federal classification. Here's what can ride and where:

  • Bike lanes and bike paths: maximum speed 20 km/h;
  • Sidewalks, squares, and parks: maximum speed 6 km/h (only with extra caution, and in some sections it's prohibited – watch for signs);
  • Shared traffic roads: only allowed on streets with a limit of up to 40 km/h;
  • Helmet use is mandatory for everyone – including on kick scooters;
  • Required equipment: speedometer, bell, and signaling