Yes, they are. New York City legalized e-scooter and e-bikes across the state in April of 2020. Though the COVID-19 pandemic largely precipitated the move, it’s great news. This is especially for delivery workers who constantly navigate traffic and whose business depend on getting around fast.
Electric scooters have existed since the 1990s. Over the decades, they have undergone massive upgrades and evolved into the silent, eco-friendly, and cost-effective motorized vehicles we have today. To experience the thrill they offer, reduce your carbon footprint, and escape traffic, hit us up for an electric scooter rental. We have plenty of models to choose from and prioritize your safety.
What are Electric Scooter Laws in NYC?
Legalizing e-scooters and e-bikes is a great achievement. But, unfortunately, it came with a lot of confusion. New Yorkers aren’t clear which motorized vehicles are now legal and the specific rules and regulations that apply for the different options. Luckily, we are here to help you resolve confusion. Below is an overview of what you should know.
The law groups e-bikes and mopeds into three categories. Electric bikes with operable pedals and throttle activated e-bikes fall under Class 1 and 2. With these e-bikes, you can only ride them at a speed of 20 mph. But with an electric scooter in New York, you can cruise at 15 mph. Finally, if you have a Class 3 e-bike, you can cruise at 25 mph.
NYC electric scooter laws describe a moped as ‘a limited use electric vehicle that has two or three wheels’ and have different groupings. But before you go cruising around with a moped on streets and highways, you need to register it and get a driver’s license.
Now, for mopeds in Classes C and B, you can cruise in the right lanes except when negotiating a right turn. But, with Class A mopeds, you can ride on vehicle lanes. Aside from a driver’s license, you should get a motorcycle license too. For mopeds, speed limits range from 20 to 40 mile per hour.
Further Restrictions for Riding E-Scooters
In addition to the above stipulations, the New York adds the following restrictions:
- Mini-bikes, golf carts, and dirt bikes aren’t considered electric vehicles as the DMV doesn’t register them. Consequently, they are banned from sidewalks, highways and streets.
- Class 3 electric bicycles have only been legalized in the in the city
- If you use an electric bicycle in a space managed by City Parks, you’ll have to abide by their rules and regulations
- New York doesn’t register e-scooters
- The electric motor of an electric bike shouldn’t exceed 750w
- Only persons over 16 years can ride an e-scooter or an e-bike in NYC
- The state of New York recommends the use of helmets for everyone. However, riders under 18 years of traveling over 20 mph and delivery cyclists must wear a helmet.
Remember, these policies and laws are subject to change at any time. Luckily, we follow these updates to ensure our clients are safe and abide by the law. So if you need an e-scooter rental, call us at +1 917-720-8850.
Where Can You Ride an Electric Scooter?
Regulations on where you can ride your electric scooter in NYC depend on its Class. For Class 1 and 2 e-scooters, you can ride on bike lanes and streets with 30mph speed limits at a 20 mph maximum speed. However, you can use electric scooters with a max speed of 15 mph on city streets.
Class 3 e-bikes are allowed on streets and bike lanes with 30 mph speed limits. Finally, you can ride mopeds on vehicle lanes and shoulder lanes.
You cannot ride electric scooters on the city sidewalks because of the danger they put pedestrians in. As scooters continue increasing in popularity in New York, we’ll see the state developing adaptive infrastructure to accommodate them.
Speaking of dangers, it’s crucial that you communicate with other road users. While you may only be cruising at 15 mph, it’s enough to cause serious injuries in an accident. If your e-bike doesn’t have electric signals, then you can use hand signals to communicate intent and direction.
- To signal a stop, extend the left arm and bend it down at the elbow
- To indicate a right turn, point to the right
- To signal a left turn, extend your left arm and point to your left.
Don’t worry, the law is okay with this provided you have one hand on the handlebar at all times.
Manhattan Electric Scooters Ban
The new electric scooter laws in NYC can revolutionize public transportation but don’t hold your breath waiting for share companies to proliferate in Manhattan street corners. Why? Well, legislators threw in a free-will clause that allows counties and cities in different states to regulate e-bikes and e-scooters as they deem necessary.
So while New York boroughs could let share scooter companies operate freely (and most do), Manhattan hasn’t. Instead, Manhattan only allows the use of privately owned scooters. However, the city might change its stance on the law.
City Still Work on Electric Scooter Legislation
Aside from legalizing three classes of e-bikes and e-scooters, the New York Department of Transportation had to create a one-year shared electric scooters pilot program in the city. New York neighborhoods with insufficient public transportation and without last-mile connections to different transit sections prioritize the program.
The New York DOT would offer shared electric bike rentals, and all unauthorized shared e-bikes are impounded. Moreover, the pilot program needs e-scooter companies to ensure their vehicles don’t block ramps and sidewalks.
According to the legislation, scooter companies need to work with DOT and members of the disability community to avail accessible scooters. These e-scooter models come equipped with three wheels and seats. The program is for a year, but New York DOT can renew the licenses.
FAQ
Yes, it has. For a long time, shared scooter companies deployed thousands of e-scooters in different parts of the world, but New York state was adamant about remaining scooter-free. But with their legalization, the number of e-bikes in the city is increasing.
Yes, you can. Take advantage of these transport trends to avoid traffic, save the planet and reduce your transport costs.
No, you cannot. You can ride your e-scooter on the streets and bike lanes with 30 mph speed limits.
Try e-scooter in NYC with our top rental service
Fancy Apple offers a lot more than Central Park bike rental. Instead, we go over and beyond to offer an experience. First, our rental locations are handpicked around the central park area and are close to major New York attractions like Times Square and Bethesda Fountain. With such proximity, you can do a lot of sightseeing.
We offer a wide range of quality e-scooters to choose from and at favorable prices. Furthermore, every e-bike comes with safety accessories, a free map, and flexible cancellations. For an exhilarating riding experience, contact our friendly customer support at +1 917-720-8850.