City streets, local parks and everywhere in between, e-scooters are now part of life in South Australia. Since the use of privately owned e-scooters became legal in July 2025, lots of people have been asking: Where can I ride? How fast can I go? What’s allowed and what’s not?
To clear up the confusion, we’ve put together answers to your most common questions about riding e-scooters safely and legally on our roads and paths.
Yes. From 13 July 2025, privately owned electric scooters (e-scooters) and other personal mobility devices can legally be ridden on roads and paths in South Australia.
You can ride an e-scooter on:
The maximum legal speed depends on where you are riding:
Riding faster than these limits, or faster than is safe in the circumstances, is a criminal offence.
No. Riders do not need a driver’s licence, registration, or insurance to ride an e-scooter in South Australia.
Yes. All riders must wear a helmet when riding an e-scooter, unless they are of Sikh religion and wearing a turban.
No, riders must be at least 16 years old.
No. It is an offence to use a mobile phone while riding an e-scooter. This includes holding your phone, looking at something on your phone, and sending a text message.
No. It is an offence to ride an e-scooter while under the influence of alcohol or drugs such that you are incapable of exercising effective control of the e-scooter.
Yes, as long as you are not under the influence of drugs or alcohol, and you have lights on the front and rear of your e-scooter.
There is no rule or law prohibiting you from using your e-scooter in a drive-through lane, although doing so is not recommended as it may pose a risk to your safety and to others. The restaurant may also refuse to take your order according to their own policies.
No. It is illegal to carry a second person on an e-scooter.
Penalties may include expiation fees and fines, and even demerit points if the rider holds a driver’s licence.
Next time you hop on your e-scooter, remember to ride safely, follow the law, and help keep everyone on roads and paths safe.
Visit our Law Handbook page on electric scooters and other personal mobility devices to learn more about the rules, or call our free Legal Helpline on 1300 366 424 (open Monday to Friday from 9:00am to 4:30pm).
Legal Services provides free legal information, advice and education to all South Australians.
Call our Free Legal Helpline on 1300 366 424
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Read our guides, fact sheets and booklets on a variety of legal topics
Refer to our Law Handbook for detailed information about the law
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