Electric scooter laws in Kentucky – Complete Guide 2025

Summary Electric Scooter Law Kentucky

Classification: Electric low-speed scooter (KRS 189.289)
Min age: 16 years old
Helmet required: No state requirement
Max legal speed: 20 mph maximum capability
License/registration required: No
Sidewalk riding allowed: Not specified in state law (varies by city)
Bike lane access: Yes
Scooter sharing present: Yes (Louisville, Lexington)
Last checked: September 8, 2025

Summary Electric Scooter Law Kentucky

Kentucky has clear state regulations for electric scooters under KRS 189.289, requiring riders to be at least 16 years old and limiting scooters allowed top speed to 20 mph. The state allows riding on roads under 35 mph, bike lanes, and bicycle paths, but local cities can implement additional restrictions. Equipment requirements include proper braking systems and lighting for low visibility conditions.

Official Legal Framework

Kentucky Revised Statutes § 189.289 specifically governs the operation of electric low-speed scooters. Allowing a person 16 years or older to operate an electric scooter on a road (-35 mph), bicycle lane, or bicycle path. The statute subjects electric scooter operation to traffic regulations outlined in Chapter 189 of Kentucky Revised Statutes.

This law creates a clear framework that distinguishes electric scooters from motorcycles and mopeds while establishing specific operational parameters.

Where You Can Ride

Roadways

Electric scooters are permitted on roads with a maximum speed of 35 mph. State law allows highway operation but doesn’t restrict which types of roads, leaving safety decisions largely to the rider.

Bike Lanes

Explicitly permitted under KRS 189.289. Bike lanes are typically the safest option for scooter riders, providing dedicated space away from vehicle traffic.

Sidewalks

Kentucky state law doesn’t address sidewalk riding for electric scooters, creating a gray area that cities have filled with their own ordinances. Many municipalities prohibit sidewalk riding, particularly in downtown areas.

Bicycle Paths

Specifically allowed under state law. Multi-use trails and dedicated bicycle paths are generally open to electric scooter use unless posted otherwise.

Equipment & Vehicle Requirements

Weight and Speed Limits

Electric scooters must weigh under 100 lbs, have a maximum speed capability of 20 mph, and be equipped with adequate braking systems. The 20 mph limit refers to the scooter’s maximum capability, not necessarily the speed you’re allowed to travel in all areas.

Safety Equipment

For riding under low visibility conditions, scooters need at least one headlamp and one rear red light. While not explicitly required for daytime riding, proper lighting significantly improves safety and may be mandated by local ordinances.

Braking Systems

Adequate braking capability is required by state law. This typically means both electronic and mechanical braking systems should be functional, though the statute doesn’t specify exact braking distances or performance standards.

Rider Requirements

Age Limits: you must be at least 16 years old to operate an electric scooter in public.

Licensing: No driver’s license is required to operate an electric scooter in Kentucky.

Helmet Laws: Kentucky doesn’t mandate helmet use for electric scooter riders at the state level.

Alcohol Rules: Electric scooter operators are subject to the same traffic regulations as other vehicles under Kentucky law, including DUI provisions. Operating under the influence can result in the same penalties as drunk driving.

Parking, Storage & Riding Etiquette

Kentucky state law doesn’t specify parking regulations for electric scooters, leaving this area to local ordinances and common sense. Best practices include avoiding blocking pedestrian traffic, ADA-compliant areas, or vehicle parking spaces.

In cities with shared scooter programs, designated parking zones may be required. Private scooter owners should follow general parking principles and respect property owners’ rules.

Enforcement & Penalties

Since electric scooter operators must follow traffic regulations under Chapter 189, violations can result in traffic citations with fines varying by jurisdiction. Common violations include:

Operating under age 16
Exceeding local speed limits
Improper parking in cities with designated zones
Operating under the influence

The specific penalty amounts depend on local court systems and the nature of the violation.

Insurance & Liability

Kentucky doesn’t require specific insurance coverage for electric scooters. However, personal liability in accidents follows standard negligence principles. Homeowner’s or renter’s insurance policies may provide some coverage, but riders should verify their specific policy terms.

Since Kentucky is a no-fault insurance state for motor vehicles, the interaction between no-fault laws and electric scooter accidents remains a developing area of law.

Local Exceptions to State Law

Louisville Metro

Louisville has implemented regulations for shared scooter services that include:

Company licensing requirements
Designated parking zones in downtown areas
Operational hour restrictions
Sidewalk riding prohibitions in certain districts

Private scooter owners aren’t subject to commercial licensing but must follow general traffic laws and local parking ordinances.

Lexington-Fayette County

Lexington Municipal Code includes provisions for dockless vehicles that affect shared scooters:

Prohibited on sidewalks in downtown core
Required parking in designated zones or bike racks
Company permits required for shared services
General traffic law compliance for all riders

Northern Kentucky

Cities in the Cincinnati metropolitan area often have their own ordinances influenced by neighboring Ohio regulations, but most don’t distinguish between shared and privately owned scooters in their enforcement.

Special Circumstances

School Zones

While state law doesn’t create special restrictions for school zones, many school districts have their own policies about scooter use on campus or in school zones. Reduced speed and extra caution are always appropriate near schools.

Construction Zones

Standard traffic laws apply in construction zones. Exercise extra caution and reduce speed significantly when riding through active construction areas.

Rental vs Owned

Shared scooter services operate under additional commercial licensing requirements in major cities, while privately owned scooters only need to comply with traffic laws and general local ordinances.

FAQs

Can teenagers under 16 ride electric scooters in Kentucky? No, state law requires riders to be at least 16 years old with no exceptions.

Do I need a driver’s license? No driver’s license is required.

Can I ride on sidewalks? State law doesn’t address sidewalks, but many cities prohibit sidewalk riding. Check local ordinances before riding.

What about insurance? Not required by state law, but personal liability in accidents can be significant.

Are there speed limits? Scooters are limited to 20 mph maximum capability. Local jurisdictions may impose lower speed limits in certain areas.

Can I ride at night? Yes, but you must have proper lighting (headlamp and rear red light) during low visibility conditions.

Resources & Citations

Keep Tabs on Kentucky Law

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Ride Junkie’s Final Words Of Non-Legal Wisdom

I can appreciate that Kentucky actually created specific legislation for electric scooters rather than trying to force them into existing motorcycle or bicycle categories. The 16-year-old minimum age requirement makes sense from a safety perspective, even if it might disappoint younger riders.

The 20 mph speed cap and 100-pound weight limit create a reasonable definition of what constitutes a “low-speed scooter” versus more powerful electric vehicles. These limits keep scooters in a manageable category for shared road use without requiring the full licensing and insurance requirements of motorcycles.

Legal Disclaimer: We are riders, not lawyers. This page summarizes the law and is for informational purposes only, not legal advice.