H1: Electric Scooter Laws in Illinois: Everything Riders Need to Know in 2025

Electric scooter laws in Illinois are important to know if you want to ride around safely and legally. Electric scooters are becoming more popular because they are easy to use and good for the environment.

You can ride low-speed electric scooters on Illinois roads, but you need to follow the rules about where you ride and what kind of identification you need. Most roads with a speed limit of 35 mph or less are allowed, but highways and state roads are off-limits.

Whether you're new to electric scooters or just want to learn more, understanding these laws helps you enjoy your ride without getting into trouble.

Understanding Electric Scooter Laws in Illinois

Electric scooter laws in Illinois depend on the scooter’s speed, power, and purpose. These laws affect who can ride, where you can ride, and what paperwork or license you might need.

Illinois E-Scooter Definition and Classification

Illinois splits electric scooters into two types based on weight, speed, and motor power.

• Low-Speed Electric Scooters: These weigh less than 100 pounds and are designed to go up to 10 miles per hour. They are small, easy to handle, and usually don't go faster than most people can run.
  
• High-Speed Electric Scooters: High-speed scooters have more powerful motors, often above 750 watts, and can reach up to 20 miles per hour. They are heavier and may look similar to small mopeds or gas scooters. 

Knowing which type you have is essential since the laws are different for each group.

Licensing Requirements

The type of scooter affects whether you need a license.

• Low-Speed Electric Scooters: In Illinois, you do not need a driver's license to use a low-speed scooter, which makes it accessible to most adults.
  
• High-Speed Electric Scooters: You must have a valid license if your scooter can go over 10 miles per hour or has a big motor. Usually, this means a Class L or M driver's license, the same kind needed for motorcycles or mopeds.
  
• Registration and Insurance: Some high-speed scooters must be registered with the state and may require liability insurance. Always check if your scooter fits this rule before you ride.

📌 Read More: Do You Need a License To Drive an Electric Scooter?

Age Restrictions

Illinois sets age limits for riders to keep everyone safe.

• Low-Speed Scooters: You must be 18 to ride a low-speed electric scooter. Kids and teens can't legally use these on public streets even without a license.
   
• High-Speed Scooters: The age requirement for high-speed scooters can depend on city or county rules. In most places, you must be at least 16 or 18 and have the proper driver’s license. Always check the exact rules for where you live.

Wearing a helmet is always a good idea, even if not always required by law.

📌 Read More: Electric Scooter Age Limit: Complete Guide to Riding Requirements

Are Electric Scooters Legal in Illinois?

Yes, electric scooters are legal in Illinois, but the rules depend on the scooter's speed and local laws. Low-speed scooters are often allowed anywhere a bicycle can be ridden, such as bike lanes and some roads.

High-speed scooters are subject to stricter rules. You may need to stay on certain streets, and some cities can limit or ban electric scooters in busy areas. You cannot ride electric scooters on sidewalks in many places. Stick to bike lanes or streets where bicycles are allowed.

Check with your city or town for local restrictions. Rules can change from place to place, so always check before riding.

📌 Read More: Can You Ride an Electric Scooter on the Sidewalk?

Key Electric Scooter Laws in Illinois You Must Know

Illinois has clear rules about where you can ride electric scooters, when helmets are needed, and how fast you are allowed to go. Understanding these laws will help you stay safe and avoid tickets or fines.

Where You Can Legally Ride

You may ride an electric scooter on roads where the speed limit is 35 mph or lower. Most cities let you use bike lanes if one is available. Riding on sidewalks is not allowed in most areas, especially in crowded downtown zones.

Scooters are not allowed on highways or roads with high-speed traffic. You should always check for local rules, as some towns or cities may have extra restrictions. Always watch for signs or markings that show where scooters are banned.

Summary Table:

Carry only one rider per scooter, and keep at least one hand on the handlebars at all times.

Helmet Laws and Safety Equipment

Illinois does not have a statewide helmet law for electric scooter riders. However, wearing a helmet is strongly recommended for your safety. Some cities or park districts may require helmets, especially for riders under 18.

If you plan to ride at night or in low light, your scooter must have a front light and rear reflector. These help cars and other road users see you. It’s also a good idea to wear bright or reflective clothing to be more visible.

You should check your scooter's brakes for working before every ride. Good brakes are important for stopping safely in traffic or emergencies.

Speed Limits and Power Restrictions

Electric scooters must not exceed 20 mph on public roads. This rule is in place to keep riders and others safe. Each scooter should also follow the manufacturer's power and weight limits.

You can ride faster than 20 mph only on private property with the owner's permission. Going over the speed limit on the street can result in fines or the removal of your scooter.

Always ride safely for the area and conditions, even if your scooter can go faster. Riding too fast in busy or crowded areas increases your risk of accidents. Make sure you know and follow all posted speed signs.

Insurance and Registration of E-scooters in Illinois

Whether you need insurance or registration for your electric scooter in Illinois depends on how fast it can go. High-speed scooters have different rules than low-speed ones, so it's important to know which type you have before you ride.

Insurance Requirements

If your e-scooter is a high-speed model, you must have liability insurance. The required minimum coverage is:

• $25,000 for bodily injury per person
• $50,000 for property damage

This insurance protects you and others if there is an accident.

If you have a low-speed e-scooter, insurance is not required in Illinois. However, you can still choose to get coverage for extra protection, but it is not the law.

Double-check what type of scooter you have by looking at how fast it can go. If you are unsure, ask your dealer or check your scooter’s manual.

Registration

High-speed e-scooters in Illinois must be registered with the Illinois Secretary of State. Here’s what you need to do:

• Fill out the required registration form
• Pay a registration fee
• Get a rear-facing license plate for your scooter

Low-speed e-scooters do not need to be registered, and if your scooter exceeds the speed limit for high-speed models, you do not need a special sticker or plate.

If you are in Chicago, remember that the city may also have a sticker or fee for certain scooters. Check your local rules just to be safe.

City-Specific Electric Scooter Laws in Illinois

Rules for riding electric scooters change depending on where you are in Illinois. Some cities have stricter laws and more detailed programs, while others follow state guidelines or local policies.

Chicago E-Scooter Laws

Chicago has tested electric scooters within city limits using pilot programs. These pilots let the city test rules, with special focus on keeping streets safe and organized.

• No-Ride Zones: Some streets are off-limits for scooter use in the downtown Loop area. You cannot ride scooters within these no-ride zones, which are often marked in apps and on signs.
• Parking Rules: Scooters must be parked upright on sidewalks. Do not block doorways, ramps, or paths. If you leave scooters in the wrong place, you may be fined.
• Speed Limits: Most scooter programs set a maximum speed at 15 mph.
• Hours: Scooters may not be operated late at night during certain hours to reduce accidents.
• Requirements: Riders must be at least 18 and have a valid driver’s license or permit.

All scooters must have proper lighting at night. Police and local transportation officials handle enforcement.

Suburban Area Regulations

Suburban cities like Naperville and Evanston have their own rules. These local laws can be different from those in Chicago.

• Naperville: Only allows scooters on certain roads and paths. You generally cannot ride on highways or some busy downtown streets.
• Evanston: This city allows shared scooter programs, but you must park in specific zones and stay off sidewalks in busy business districts.
• College Campuses: Schools like Northwestern and others have set their own policies. Some only allow scooters in certain areas or ban them inside buildings.
• Age Limits: Some suburbs set a minimum age for riders, usually 16 or 18.
• Helmet Requirements: Most places do not allow adults to wear helmets, but you must check local campus rules.

Local laws in the suburbs aim to keep riders and pedestrians safe. Always review city or campus policies before riding.

Penalties for Violating Illinois E-Scooter Laws

If you break e-scooter laws in Illinois, you could face fines or other penalties. The rules cover where you can ride, how you park your scooter, and safe driving behavior.

Common penalties include:

• Fines for illegal riding: You can be fined if you ride an electric scooter where it is not allowed, like on roads with speed limits over 35 mph. The fine for a first offense is usually up to $100, and it can be up to $250 for more than one offense.
  
• Risks of having your scooter impounded: If you leave a scooter blocking sidewalks or park it where it is not allowed, the city may take it away. You may need to pay a fee to get it back.
  
• DUI consequences: It is illegal to ride an e-scooter under the influence of alcohol or drugs. If you do, you can be arrested and face serious charges, similar to driving a car drunk.

Here’s a quick look at possible penalties:

Comparing Federal and Neighboring State Laws for Electric Scooters

Electric scooter laws are not the same everywhere, and they can change depending on the state or even the city you're in. In Illinois, it's important to understand both state and local rules before you ride.

What Does Federal Law Say About Electric Scooters?

Federal law does not directly regulate electric scooters. Here’s what you need to know:

• The Consumer Product Safety Act mainly covers electric bikes, not scooters.
• The federal government leaves it up to each state to make laws for electric scooters.
• You don’t need to register your scooter at the federal level.
• There are no federal rules for rider age, licenses, or registration on public roads.

Because of this, each state (and city) can decide how scooters are treated — like bikes, mopeds, or something else entirely.

How Illinois Handles E-Scooters

In Illinois, electric scooters are often treated like bicycles, but there are rules you must follow:

• You can ride on public roads and bike paths, but only where the speed limit is 35 mph or less.
• If your scooter is classified as a moped, you must have a Class L or M license.
• Some cities in Illinois may have stricter rules, so always check local laws before you ride.

How Neighboring States Compare

Missouri:

• Electric scooters are often treated like bicycles.
• You may need to stay in bike lanes and avoid sidewalks in cities like St. Louis and Kansas City.
• Local rules may vary, so always check city ordinances.

Kentucky:

• You can ride electric scooters on roads with a speed limit of up to 35 mph.
• Riders must be at least 16 years old.
• No registration or insurance is needed, but you must follow the same traffic laws as cars.

Summary: How Illinois Compares

• Illinois has stricter rules than Missouri and Kentucky regarding licenses and where you can ride.
• You may need a special Illinois license (Class L or M).
• Riding is limited to roads with speed limits under 35 mph.
• Local rules can change things further, so always check with your city.

Safety Tips for Riding Electric Scooters in Illinois

Riding an electric scooter in Illinois can be fun, but you should always prioritize safety. Use these tips to lower your risk of accidents and injuries.

✅️ Wear Safety Gear: Always wear a helmet. Pads for your knees and elbows can also help you stay safe.

✅️ Check Your Scooter: Before you ride, check the brakes, tires, and battery. Make sure the lights work, and tighten any loose parts.

✅️ Know the Rules: Follow all traffic signs and signals. Ride on roads with a speed limit of 35 mph or less. Only one person should ride per scooter.

✅️ Be Alert at Intersections: Slow down and look both ways before you cross. Cars and bikes might not see you.

✅️ Use Hand Signals: If you need to turn, use your arm to signal. Make your actions clear to drivers and cyclists.

✅️ Stay Visible: Wear bright or reflective clothing, especially at night. Keep your lights on so others can see you.

✅️ No Sidewalk Riding: Many areas do not allow electric scooters on sidewalks. Stick to bike lanes or the road.

Best Practices for Sharing the Road

• Ride with traffic, not against it.
• Keep to the right, giving space to cars, bikes, and pedestrians.
• Never hold items that keep you from gripping the handlebars with both hands.

Regularly care for your scooter and follow these tips to make every ride safer for you and those around you.

📌 Read More about the Electric Scooter Safety Guide.

Conclusion

Illinois allows you to ride low-speed electric scooters on roads with a speed limit of 35 mph or less. Only one rider is permitted at a time, and you cannot attach your scooter to another vehicle.

Key rules:

• Electric scooters allowed on most public roads under 35 mph
• Only one rider per scooter
• No towing or attaching to cars

Some local governments in Illinois may have their own additional rules or restrictions. It's important to check your city or county ordinances before you ride.

Safety and legal riding go hand in hand. Always follow traffic signs and signals, yield to pedestrians, and wear a helmet if possible.

By staying informed and riding responsibly, you can help keep yourself and others safe. Read updates for any new laws and stay aware of changes in your local area.

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❓ FAQs About Electric Scooter Laws in Illinois

Illinois requires certain rules for riding electric scooters, like where you can ride, speed limits, and laws about insurance and passengers. Licensing and street use rules also apply depending on your scooter’s type and speed.

Do I need insurance for my e-scooter in Illinois?

You must have liability insurance if your electric scooter is classified as a motor-driven cycle or moped and requires registration. For most low-speed electric scooters that do not go over 20-28 mph, insurance is usually not required. Always check your scooter’s classification to be sure.

Are Electric Scooters Allowed On Sidewalks In Illinois?

Electric scooters are not allowed on sidewalks in most parts of Illinois, including major cities like Chicago. You must ride in bike lanes or on the road where allowed. Local laws may have specific rules, so check the area you plan to ride.

Are there any alcohol restrictions for e-scooters?

You cannot ride an electric scooter while under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Illinois treats riding under the influence the same as operating a car or motorcycle, so you can be stopped and charged for DUI offenses.

What Is The Speed Limit In Illinois?

You can only ride electric scooters on roads with a speed limit of 35 mph or less. Most e-scooters are limited to speeds under 20 or 28 mph depending on the class. Exceeding these speed limits can result in fines.

Do Electric Scooters Need Number Plates In Illinois?

Low-speed electric scooters that do not exceed 20-28 mph typically do not need number plates or registration. Registration and plates are required if your scooter is classified as a moped or motor-driven cycle.

Can E-Scooter Riders Carry Passengers In Illinois?

In Illinois, electric scooters are not allowed to carry passengers. Most are designed for one person only, and carrying extra riders is unsafe and illegal.