Micromobility options like electric scooters and e-bikes have become increasingly popular ways to get around. However, their legal status in Pennsylvania can be confusing. Here's a helpful breakdown of where you can and can’t legally ride your electric vehicle. 

Rules of the Road:  

Electric Scooters on Public Roads:  Pennsylvania law treats electric scooters as motor vehicles. This means they must meet titling, registration, and equipment standards set by PennDOT. Most electric scooters do not meet these requirements, lacking items such as mirrors and turn signals, which effectively makes them illegal to operate on public roads. 

Sidewalk Use: Electric Scooters:  It might seem safer to ride on the sidewalk—but that’s also illegal in PA. Title 75 PA C.S.A. § 3703 prohibits driving any vehicle upon a sidewalk, including electric scooters.

Electric Scooter vs. EPAMD:  Electric scooters are often mistaken for Electric Personal Assistive Mobility Devices (EPAMDs) like Segways. However, they are not the same:

• EPAMD: Two wheels, non-tandem, self-balancing, electric.
• Electric Scooter: Tandem wheels, not self-balancing → not classified as an EPAMD under PA law.

Where Can I Legally Ride an Electric Scooter:   The primary place you can legally ride your electric scooter in Pennsylvania is on private property. If you have a large yard, or obtain permission from a landowner, you can use your scooter there. Stay Informed It’s important to be aware that rules and regulations about electric scooters can change. 

Important Resource Links:

Essential Pennsylvania E-Bike Laws for 2025 – The Cyclist Choice

Bicycle Safety and Pennsylvania Laws – PennDOT

Street Legal Electric Bike (Ebike):

In Pennsylvania, an electric bike is considered a “pedalcycle with electric assist” provided it meets certain criteria:

• The electric motor must be under 750 watts.
• It can reach a maximum speed of 20 mph on a level surface when powered solely by the motor.
• The ebike must weigh no more than 100 lbs and have operable pedals.
• Must be 16 years of age or older.

E-Dirt Bikes: 

FAQ: Where can I operate an Electric Dirt Bike? On private property or trails that allow such activity.  

FAQ: How is an electric dirt bike different from an E-Bike / Scooter? The electric dirt bikes are specifically designed for off-road use only. They exceed the restrictions on MPH. 

FAQ: Can I register my E-dirt bike? NO, they cannot be registered in Pennsylvania as they do not have Vehicle Identification Numbers (VIN) 

FAQ: Can I register my motorized dirt bike or ATV? Yes, with the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources (DCNR)  

FAQ: How do I know if it's an e-bike or something else? See the PennDOT Micromobility Fact Sheet stated regulations for each category. 

Bushkill Township police officers have the discretion of issuing a citation or a warning when enforcing the Pennsylvania Vehicle Code. If stopped for operating one of these vehicles/bikes on the roadway or sidewalk, you may be issued a citation that incurs a fine.