Electric Scooter Laws in Georgia – Complete Guide 2025

Summary Georgia Electric Scooter Law

• Classification: Treated as mopeds under O.C.G.A. § 40-6-350
• Min age: 15 years old (with instructional permit) or 16+ (with license)
• Helmet required: Not specified in state law
• Max speed: No specific limit for electric scooters
• License: Driver’s license or instructional permit required
• Registration: No; Insurance: Not required
• Sidewalk riding allowed: No
• Bike lane access: Yes, where allowed for mopeds
• Scooter sharing present: Yes (varies by city)
• Last checked: August 31, 2025

Georgia’s Approach to Electric Scooters

Georgia takes an interesting approach to electric scooters by treating them essentially the same as mopeds. Electric scooters are street-legal in the state of Georgia, but the system is more restrictive than other states.

The biggest thing to understand is that Georgia doesn’t have separate electric scooter legislation. Instead, electric scooters fall under the existing moped regulations, which requires proper licensing in order for you to ride legally.

Official Legal Framework

Georgia’s electric scooter regulations fall primarily under the Official Code of Georgia Annotated Title 40, Chapter 6, Article 13, Part 4, which is where mopeds are covered. The key statute is O.C.G.A. § 40-6-350, which makes all traffic laws applicable to persons operating mopeds, and by extension, electric scooters.

Mopeds are a class exempt from the provisions relating to the registration and licensing of motor vehicles, but operators still need a valid driver’s license or instructional permit. This creates a clear regulatory framework but provides clear legal standing for electric scooters.

Where You Can Ride

Georgia’s riding rules follow moped regulations pretty closely:

Allowed locations:

• Public roads where mopeds are permitted
• Bike lanes (where mopeds are allowed)
• Streets with appropriate speed limits
• Private property with permission

Prohibited areas:

• Sidewalks (statewide prohibition)
• Interstate highways and limited access facilities
• Areas specifically designated as off-limits

The key thing to remember is that you’re operating what’s legally considered a moped, so you need to follow the same traffic patterns and rules as every other vehicle out there. This means staying in traffic lanes, not weaving between cars, and following all standard traffic signals and signs.

Equipment & Vehicle Requirements

Since Georgia treats electric scooters as mopeds, the equipment requirements follow the states moped standards:

Required equipment for road use:

• Functional brakes
• Headlight and taillight for operation between sunset and sunrise
• Turn signals (recommended but not always explicitly required)
• Horn or other warning device

Power specifications: Georgia doesn’t define specific wattage limits for electric scooters like some other states do. Instead, they focus on operational capabilities and road safety equipment.

Rider Requirements

This is the part that makes Georgia fall into the more restrictive category of states:

Age and licensing:

• Minimum age 15 with a valid instructional permit
• Age 16+ with a valid driver’s license

Helmet laws: Georgia doesn’t specify helmet requirements for moped/electric scooter riders in the state traffic code.

Alcohol/drug rules: Standard DUI laws apply. Which means operating under the influence carries the same penalties as driving a car impaired.

Parking, Storage & Riding Etiquette

Georgia follows general vehicle parking rules for electric scooters:

• Park in designated areas where motorcycles/mopeds are allowed
• Don’t block sidewalks, crosswalks, or ADA-accessible routes
• Follow local parking regulations if you’re utilizing a shared scooter programs
• Secure your personal scooter to prevent theft

Enforcement & Penalties

Violations of Georgia’s electric scooter laws are treated as traffic violations since these devices are considered vehicles under current state law:

• Operating without proper license: $25-200 fine plus potential license suspension
• Traffic violations: Same penalties as motor vehicle violations
• DUI on electric scooter: Full DUI penalties apply
• Equipment violations: $25-100 fines typically

Georgia takes traffic law enforcement seriously, and the fact that electric scooters are treated as vehicles means penalties can be significant.

Insurance & Liability

While it the law vaguely notes that mopeds under 50cc are not required to have insurance, I do suggest looking into the availability of coverage to protect yourself from liability claims.

Georgia doesn’t require insurance for electric scooters, but since you’re operating a vehicle under state law:

• Standard liability principles apply for accidents
• You could be personally liable for damages or injuries you cause
• Your personal auto insurance might provide some coverage, but check your policy
• Consider liability coverage if you’re a regular commuter

Local Exceptions to State Law

Georgia cities have implemented various local regulations that go beyond or modify state requirements:

Atlanta: Ordinance 18-O-1322 adopted on January 7, 2019 addresses regulations for scooter riders in Atlanta. The city has specific parking requirements, designated no-ride zones, and additional safety regulations specifically for shared scooter programs.

Savannah: Has implemented specific regulations for the historic district and tourist areas, with designated parking zones and restricted areas during major events.

Columbus: Allowed but requires compliance with state licensing requirements plus additional local parking regulations near Fort Benning and downtown areas.

Augusta: Has specific regulations during Masters Tournament periods and other major events, with temporary restrictions in certain areas.

Athens: Near the University of Georgia campus, there are additional regulations during football game days and specific parking requirements in downtown areas.

Special Circumstances

University campuses: State universities may have their own policies that differ from city or state regulations.

Tourist areas: Savannah’s historic district and other tourist zones often have additional restrictions during peak seasons.

Event periods: Major events like the Masters, football games, or festivals can trigger temporary restrictions.

School zones: Extra caution required, same as operating any vehicle near schools.

FAQs

Do I really need a driver’s license to ride an electric scooter in Georgia? Yes, Georgia law requires either a valid driver’s license or instructional permit (age 15+).

Can I ride without insurance? It’s not required by law, but you’re personally liable for any damages you cause, so insurance is strongly recommended.

What about bike paths and trails? If they allow mopeds, they allow electric scooters. Check specific trail regulations.

Can I ride at night? Yes, but you need proper lighting just like any vehicle.

What if I’m visiting from another state? Your valid out-of-state license should be recognized, but check with local authorities if you’re unsure.

What happens if I get pulled over? Same as any traffic stop. Have your license ready and follow standard procedures.

Resources & Citations

• Georgia Code Title 40 – Motor Vehicles and Traffic
• O.C.G.A. § 40-6-350 – Traffic Laws Applicable to Persons Operating Mopeds
• Georgia Department of Driver Services – Mopeds and Scooters
• Atlanta Police Department – E-Scooters Safety
• Georgia Department of Public Safety – Alternative Forms of Transportation

Stay in the Loop

Stay Licensed, Stay Legal: Sign up for our newsletter to get updates when Georgia modifies electric scooter regulations or when cities implement new local ordinances. Or check out our electric scooter legal hub regularly.

Toby’s Final Words Of Non-Legal Wisdom

Georgia’s approach lands them in the somewhat heavy-handed category compared to states that have embraced electric scooters with specific, modern regulations. Requiring a driver’s license to ride an electric scooter puts up a barrier that doesn’t exist in most other states, but it far from the most restrictive either.

That said, the system works. The license requirement means Georgia riders tend to be more knowledgeable, and treating scooters as vehicles provides clear legal standing in traffic situations. It’s just not as accessible as it could be for younger riders or people who don’t drive cars.

The biggest practical challenge is that many riders don’t realize they need a license until they get stopped by law enforcement. If you’re planning to ride in Georgia, get your documentation in order first.

One thing I appreciate about Georgia’s system is the clarity. You’re operating a vehicle, you need a license, you follow traffic laws. It’s straightforward, even if it’s more restrictive than necessary in my opinion.

Legal Disclaimer: We’re electric ride nerds and not attorneys. This guide summarizes Georgia law for educational purposes only and isn’t legal advice. Given Georgia’s unique approach to electric scooter regulation and the licensing requirements, if you’re facing legal issues related to electric scooter use, consult with a Georgia attorney who understands traffic law.