ScooterUnited States
An introduction to the traffic rules and road signs of United States. Learn about driving, road safety and much more in our illustrated book, with answers to frequently asked questions.
For informational purposes only. Always follow official regulations. Some content and images were created with AI assistance.
133. Scooter
A scooter is a two-wheeled motor vehicle typically characterised by a step-through frame, a platform or footrests for the rider and relatively small wheels. Scooters may use petrol or electric propulsion and can range from low-speed mopeds to more powerful vehicles legally classified as motorcycles.
The traffic rules applying to a scooter depend mainly on its maximum speed, power, engine capacity and legal vehicle category. Helmet, driving-licence, registration and road-position requirements therefore vary between countries and between different types of scooter.
Wikimedia.org • Øyvind Holmstad • CC BY-SA
Do all scooters follow the same traffic rules?
No. Different rules may apply according to whether the scooter is legally classified as a moped, motorcycle or another vehicle category.
🔗 gov.uk • Great Britain Highway Code, Rule 59, cycle equipment; national guidance example
🔗 chp.ca.gov • California Highway Patrol, motorcycle safety and helmets; California example

Traffic rules
United States