Electric Scooters are legal - within the relevant regulations
As of 2026, Washington regulates electric scooters as Motorized Foot Scooters under RCW 46.04.336.
The state provides a comprehensive framework that grants riders many of the same rights as bicyclists, while strictly prohibiting operation on certain high-speed highways and sidewalks unless specific local exceptions apply.
State-level classification and definition
Under the Revised Code of Washington, a motorized foot scooter is defined by its mechanical build and wheels.
Design: A vehichle with no more than two wheels and handlebars that can be stood or sat upon by the operator.
Power: Propelled by an internal combustion engine or electric motor.
Wheels: Must have wheels that are 10 inches or smaller in diameter.
Status: These vehcile are distinguished from electric-assisted bicycles and mopeds, which are subject to different equipment and access laws.
2026 Legislative Updates and Road Rules
As of 2026, the Washington State Legislature has been focused on distinguishing e-scooters from high-power electric motorcycles via HB 2374.
Current Status: Registration and insurance are not required for electric scooters in Washington as of 2026.
Electric Motorcycle Distinction: Any electric vehicle that lacks pedals and is capable of exceeding 20 mph on motor power alone may now be reclassified as an electric motorcycle, requiring a license and registration.
Night Visibility: New guidelines for 2026 emphasise that reflectors are required.
Licensing and age requirements
License: No driver’s license or specialised permit is required to operate a motorized foot scooter in Washington.
Minimum Age: The minimum age for operating an electric scooter on public rights-of-way is 16 years old.
Identification: Not legally required for operation.
Performance and equipment limits
To be street-legal in Washington, a scooter must adhere to the following safety and performance standards:
Speed: The vehicle must have a maximum design speed of 20 mph on level ground.
Operational Limit: On public roadways and bicycle lanes, the operational speed of a motorized foot scooter is capped at 15 mph.
Brakes: A functional braking system is mandatory for safe operation.
Night Lighting: For use between a half-hour after sunset and a half-hour before sunrise, a white front lamp and red rear reflectors are mandatory (RCW 46.20.500).
Operational rules and permitted areas
Operators possess the same rights and duties as bicyclists but face stricter location bans.
Roadways: Permitted on roadways where the speed limit is 25 mph or less. Riders must stay to the right of the roadway as much as safely practicable.
Sidewalks: Generally prohibited statewide. Operation on sidewalks or public trails is illegal unless a local ordinance provides an exception or there is no safe alternative for travel.
Bike Lanes: Permitted in designated bike lanes and on shared-use paths unless signs specifically prohibit "motorized vehicles."
Prohibited Areas: Scooters are strictly forbidden on fully controlled limited-access highways.
Helmet laws
State Level: Washington law does not mandate helmets for e-scooters statewide, but RCW 46.37.530 requires riders to comply with any local helmet ordinances.
Local Mandates: Major jurisdictions, including Seattle, King County, and Spokane, enforce local laws requiring all riders regardless of age to wear a bicycle safety helmet.
Minors: Helmet use is universally required for minors in almost all Washington municipalities.
Disclaimer: Bo USA Inc. endeavours to keep these documents up to date and relevant, however does not in any manner guarantee the accuracy of the included findings regarding electric scooter laws in the United States. Always carry out secondary research to validate any statement - and refer directly to the relevant authority before presuming accuracy.
Electric scooter riders or those considering to purchase or begin riding electric scooters should refer to their local governments to obtain the most up-to-date information on the applicable, local legal standing of scooters.
The Bo Model-M: Since the electric scooter is legal in Washington, it is worth investing in a vehicle that is going to have a real integrity and quality to its manufacture. This means it will bring you pleasure every time you use it.
To that end, it is interesting to know that Bo is the only electric scooter designed and engineered by a team of real car guys. Where the rest of the scooter industry took plasticky toys and ruggedised them, we started with a blank sheet of paper to develop the best vehicle in the world for local journeys.
Of course, you can only really feel the benefit of that when you ride it for yourself; that is why we give an extraordinary 60 day return policy and have a customer response team full of the engineers who made it. When you contact Bo, you're going straight to the source.
Visit the Model M page - click here
Learn more about how we made the 'M' - click here
Go watch a Youtube about the Model-M - click here
Return to the State-by-State regulation page - click here
