Copyright Wilmington News Journal
The price of gas isn't important when you're able to cruise around on an electric bike or electric scooter like a boss in Delaware. But is it legal to ride an electric scooter or electric bike on the road in the First State? Here's what you need to know to help keep you from riding dirty in Delaware. What are Delaware laws regarding riding electric bicycles? An electric bicycle may be ridden anywhere bicycles are allowed (unless posted otherwise), which includes streets, highways, roadways, shoulders and bicycle lanes. Delaware prohibits anyone under the age of 16 from operating an electric bicycle, which features pedal assist only and tops off at 28 mph. Driven to eat tasty food: Meet Delaware's best food truck of 2025 What is the difference between an electric scooter, moped and triped? A motorized skateboard or scooter is any vehicle with two wheels on the ground, handlebars and a hand-controlled throttle or brake, designed to be stood or sat upon by the operator, according to Delaware law. While mopeds and tripeds are similar in design and size, mopeds have two wheels and tripeds have three wheels. Where can you ride motorized vehicles? Delaware law states that motorized skateboards or scooters can be used on public streets or highways as long as they are in the neutral position or the powertrain function is disengaged. However, in Newark, you can be fined $100 for riding motorized scooters on streets and sidewalks. Mopeds and tripeds are prohibited on interstates and operating railroads, according to the Delaware Division of Motor Vehicles. Is insurance needed for a moped or triped? No motor vehicle insurance is required for operating a moped or triped, according to the Delaware Division of Motor Vehicles. Are there any restrictions on riding a scooter? Delaware state law states that a person cannot operate a motorized skateboard or scooter while under the influence of alcohol or any drug. What are the license and registration requirements? If you want to operate scooters, they must be tagged and registered by the Division of Motor Vehicles, and the operator must have a valid driver's license. The Delaware DMV states that a basic driver’s license is required to travel with a moped or triped on public roadways. The state of Delaware does not have any licensing or registration requirements for electric bikes. Road safety: What to do if you come across a serious car accident Who is allowed to ride an electric scooter? The minimum age to operate a scooter is 16. No person under 12 can operate a scooter unless they are under adult supervision or a parent or legal guardian. What is the law on wearing helmets while riding a motorized skateboard or scooter? To operate a motorized skateboard or scooter, bicycle-type helmets are required for those under 16, according to Delaware State law.
