Are Electric Scooters Legal in Louisiana?
Updated on December 1st, 2023
Louisiana defines electric scooters as personal transportation devices that weigh under 100 pounds, feature a handlebar and a floorboard for standing, and are propelled by an electric or human-powered motor. With a cap of 20 mph in speed, these scooters are allowed on sidewalks, bicycle paths, and highways. However, they are not considered to be motor-driven cycles, motor scooters, electric scooters, vehicles, or motor vehicles in a legal sense. Helmets are mandatory for users under 17 years of age. Operation and presence regulations of electric scooters on public property may be imposed by local jurisdictions.
In Louisiana, electric scooters (electric low-speed- scooters) are defined as devices that:
- Weighs less than one hundred pounds (100 lbs);
- Has a handlebar and a floorboard that can be used to stand on while riding;
- Is powered by an electric motor or human power;
- Has a maximum speed of twenty miles per hour
Proposed law authorizes electric low-speed scooters to operate on sidewalks, bicycle paths, and highways. Under this legislation, electric low-speed scooter would not be considered a motor-driven cycle, a motor scooter, an electric scooter, a vehicle, or a motor vehicle. Any riders under the age of 17 must wear a helmet. Riders are not required to have a license.
Other regulations regarding the safe operation of electric scooters and the presence of electric scooters on public property are governed by local authorities.
Max Speed
20 mph
Minimum Age
No specific minimum age for operation stated, but helmet requirement applies to those under 17.
Helmets Required?
Yes, for riders under the age of 17.
