Electric Scooter Laws in Idaho – Comple Guide 2025

Summary Idaho Electric Scooter Law

• Classification: No specific state classification (varies by city)
• Min age: Varies by municipality (no state minimum)
• Helmet required: Varies by city
• Max speed: Cities have their own limits
• License: No; Registration: No
• Sidewalk riding allowed: Varies by city
• Bike lane access: Generally yes where bicycles allowed
• Scooter sharing present: Limited to major cities
• Last checked: August 29, 2025

Idaho’s Hands-Off Approach

Idaho represents one of the most interesting regulatory landscapes for electric scooters in the country, not because of what the state requires, but because of what it doesn’t. There’s no comprehensive statewide electric scooter legislation in Idaho, which means electric scooters still exist in a legal vacuume at state level. This creates a patchwork of local regulations that can vary dramatically from one city to the next.

Idaho’s approach puts the burden on local communities to figure out what works for them. Some cities have embraced detailed regulations, while others operate under general traffic laws.

Official Legal Framework

Idaho doesn’t have specific statutes governing electric scooters. Under Idaho Code Title 49 (Motor Vehicles), electric scooters don’t clearly fit into existing definitions for motor vehicles, motorcycles, or mopeds. They’re not explicitly defined as bicycles either, though they may be treated similarly to bicycles in many jurisdictions.

Where You Can Ride

Without statewide rules, riding locations depend entirely on local ordinances:

Generally allowed (where not restricted by local law):

• Roads where bicycles are permitted
• Bike lanes in most jurisdictions
• Areas where local law specifically allows electric scooters

Typically prohibited:

• Interstate highways and limited access facilities
• Areas specifically designated as off-limits by local ordinance
• Private property without permission

Equipment & Vehicle Requirements

Idaho state law doesn’t specify equipment requirements for electric scooters. However, if operating on public roads, general vehicle safety principles apply, and local ordinances may have specific requirements.

Most cities that have implemented regulations require:

• Working brakes
• Lights for nighttime operation
• Audible warning devices (bells or horns)

Rider Requirements

Age restrictions: No statewide minimum age for electric scooter operation

Licensing: No state requirement for driver’s license or special permits

Helmet laws: No statewide helmet requirements

Alcohol/drug rules: Standard impaired operation laws apply regardless of vehicle type

Parking, Storage & Riding Etiquette

Without statewide parking regulations, local rules govern where and how you can park electric scooters. General principles include:

• Don’t block pedestrian access or ADA routes
• Follow local parking ordinances
• Respect private property
• Secure personal scooters to prevent theft

Enforcement & Penalties

Enforcement varies significantly by jurisdiction. Penalties typically fall under:

• Local traffic ordinance violations
• General reckless or dangerous operation statutes
• Property damage or personal injury laws

Insurance & Liability

Idaho doesn’t require specific insurance for electric scooters. Standard liability principles apply, meaning operators are responsible for damages they cause. Consider checking whether your homeowner’s or renter’s insurance provides any coverage for electric scooter operation.

Local Exceptions to State Law

In Idaho local regulations effectively create the rules for electric scooters. Here are major jurisdictions with specific regulations:

Idaho Falls: Has implemented comprehensive Chapter 8 – E-Bikes and E-Scooters regulations that include detailed operational rules. E-scooters may be operated upon a sidewalk, except in the Central Downtown Area, and are limited to 20 mph maximum speed.

Boise: Generally treats electric scooters similar to bicycles but has specific parking regulations and restrictions in certain downtown areas during events.

Coeur d’Alene: Allows electric scooters but has implemented parking restrictions and seasonal limitations in tourist areas near the lake.

Pocatello: Follows general bicycle regulations for electric scooters with additional restrictions near Idaho State University campus.

Twin Falls: Has basic regulations allowing electric scooters on bike paths and roads where bicycles are permitted.

Meridian: Generally follows bicycle regulations with some additional parking requirements in commercial districts.

Special Circumstances

University areas: Idaho State University, University of Idaho, and Boise State University may have campus-specific rules that differ from city regulations.

Tourist areas: Cities with significant tourism (Sun Valley, McCall, Coeur d’Alene) often have seasonal restrictions or special event limitations.

Winter conditions: Many Idaho communities experience significant snow, which effectively limits electric scooter season to warmer months.

Rural areas: Unincorporated areas may have no specific regulations, always lean on general traffic laws and property rights.

FAQs

Are electric scooters legal in Idaho? Yes, although regulation varies by city.

Do I need a license? No, unless for shared electric scooters in some cities.

Can I ride on sidewalks? Depends entirely on local rules. Idaho Falls allows it except downtown, while other cities may prohibit it entirely.

What about bike paths and trails? Most jurisdictions treat electric scooters like bicycles for path access, but check specific trail regulations.

What happens if I get in an accident? Standard liability and insurance principles apply, same as any vehicle accident.

Resources & Citations

• Idaho Code Title 49 – Motor Vehicles and Traffic
• Idaho Falls Municipal Code Chapter 8 – E-Bikes and E-Scooters
• Idaho Transportation Department – Bicycle and Pedestrian Program
• Individual city municipal codes (varies by jurisdiction)

Stay Up to Date

Get Local Updates: Idaho’s city-by-city approach means changes can happen quickly and staying informed is crucial. Sign up for our newsletter to track updates across Idaho municipalities as they develop electric scooter policies, or bookmark our e-scooter legal page here.

Ride Junkie’s Final Words Of Non-Legal Wisdom

Idaho’s approach to electric scooters perfectly reflects the state’s independent streak. Rather than creating blanket statewide rules, they’ve left it up to local communities to figure out what works for them. This creates both opportunities and challenges for riders.

Luckily of Idaho’s citizens most cities have taken a far more relaxed approach to electric scooter laws than many of its neighboring states. The downside is that rules can change quickly. This patchwork approach puts a bigger research burden on riders, especially if you’re traveling between communities.

Legal Disclaimer: We’re mechanics and riders, not attorneys. This guide summarizes the complex patchwork of Idaho’s local electric scooter regulations for informational purposes only and isn’t legal advice. Since rules vary significantly by municipality and change frequently, always verify current local regulations before riding in a new area.