Are Gas Scooters Legal in California?

Califoria law restricts the use of gas scooters.

Gas-powered scooters are legal in California, though they must meet the state's emission standards and other qualifications. In addition, scooter drivers must adhere to the state's scooter driving laws when using a gas-powered scooter.

Function

Gas-powered scooter owners must meet the state's scooter driving laws. Scooter drivers must be 16 years of age or older, hold a license or permit and wear a helmet while on the scooter. Scooters may be driven on bike paths, trails, roadway bike lanes or on roads with speed limits of 25 miles per hour or less where there is no bike lane. Motorized scooters, including gas-powered scooters, may not be driven on the sidewalk.

Significance

All gas-powered scooters in California must meet the state's emission standards, and owners may not modify the exhaust in a way that the scooter no longer meets the state's standards. According to the California Department of Motor Vehicles, all manufacturers must provide the following statement on a single sheet of paper to people who purchase a scooter in the state: "YOU MAY NOT MODIFY OR ALTER THE EXHAUST SYSTEM OF THIS SCOOTER TO CAUSE IT TO AMPLIFY OR CREATE EXCESSIVE NOISE PER VEHICLE CODE SECTION 21226, OR TO FAIL TO MEET APPLICABLE EMISSION REQUIREMENTS PER VEHICLE CODE 27156."

Considerations

Not all gas scooters meet California's emission standards. The Urban Scooters website notes that up to 99 percent of gas-powered scooters are not legal to drive in California.

References

• California Department of Motor Vehicles: Motorized Scooters Manufacturer Disclosure
• California Department of Motor Vehicles: Motorized Scooter Registration
• Urban Scooters: Motorized Scooter, Electric Bike and Pocket Bike Laws