E-scooters get the go-ahead
E-scooters and other personal mobility devices are now allowed on South Australia’s public roads and paths.
The State Government announced new regulations to help make them safer for all. Read on to learn more.
What are the new rules?
From Sunday 13 July 2025, people aged 16 and over can ride devices such as e-scooters, e-skateboards and e-solo wheels on public roads, shared paths and footpaths.
To comply with safety regulations, riders need to meet certain conditions, including:
- Travelling no faster than 25km/h on roads and 10km/h on footpaths
- Wearing a helmet at all times
- Using flashing or steady lights at night and in low light.
What’s a personal mobility device?
A legal personal mobility device (PMD) must meet the following criteria:
- It has at least one wheel
- It’s designed for one person
- It weighs 45kg or less and is propelled by an electric motor
- It can stop with brakes, gears or motor control
- It meets electrical safety standards and has no sharp protrusions
- It’s no more than 125cm long, 70cm wide and 135cm high.
What does RAA think?
RAA believes e-scooters are an ideal low-emissions option for South Australians making short trips, removing the need for a personal car for every journey.
But RAA warns that the devices must be used in accordance with the regulations to ensure the safety of riders, other road users and pedestrians. A strong education campaign is critical to raise awareness of the regulations and prioritise safety.
RAA Senior Manager of Road Safety Charles Mountain says e-scooters give road users another transport option and can help to reduce the pressure on SA’s road network.
“Recent RAA research suggests around 70 per cent of our members are in favour of these devices being legalised for use on public roads, so we welcome this announcement,” Charles says.
“The new safety regulations and their enforcement, in particular speed limits, will be critical to ensure the safety of riders and other road users isn’t compromised.
“As the state’s peak motoring body, RAA will closely monitor the introduction of these devices on SA roads and will continue to engage with the State Government to ensure they are being managed appropriately.”
What else you need to know
Users won’t need a licence to ride a PMD in South Australia, nor will devices need to be registered. However, heavy penalties – including fines of up to $2500 – will apply if the rules aren’t followed.
Any PMD rider found to be under the influence of alcohol or drugs can be charged and may need to appear in court. Holding a mobile phone in your hand or resting it on any part of your body while riding a PMD is also illegal.
Only e-scooters will be permitted on roads with a speed limit of up to 60km/h. Other devices, such as e-skateboards, will only be allowed on roads with a speed limit of 50km/h or less.
For more information on the new regulations, visit the My Licence website.