eRideable definitions and buying guide

Learn the difference between eRideables and different types of scooters, and what to look out for when buying an eRideable.
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a diagram of an erideable and a motorised scooter highlighting the differences

What’s an eRideable?

An eRideable is an electric rideable device, such as a scooter or skateboard, that:

  • has at least one wheel
  • is designed to be used by only one person
  • is no more than 125cm long, 70cm wide and 135cm high
  • is 25kg or less
  • has a speed limit of 25km/h on level ground.

There is no restriction on power output for eRideables as long as it complies with the speed, size and weight limits outlined above.

What if I have a device that doesn't meet the rules?

If your device doesn't meet the rules outlined above, you cannot ride it on WA roads and paths.

Only people aged 16 or over are allowed to use eRideables.

Children under 16 can ride low-powered motorised scooters which do not exceed 200w or go faster than 10km/h. These motorised scooters are not considered eRideables and are covered by their own rules under the Road Traffic Code 2000.

What's a motorised scooter?

A motorised scooter means a scooter that:

  • has 1 or more electric motors with a maximum power output of 200 watts; and
  • has a top speed of 10km/h

These motorised low-powered scooters are not considered to be eRideables, and are covered under their own rules. They are legal for children under 16 to use.

Riders of motorised scooters must wear a helmet, keep left unless overtaking, and give way to pedestrians. They should make sure that their scooter is fitted with lights or reflectors if driving at night. 

One person per device and helmets required on motorised scooters

Other rideable devices

Motorised wheelchairs, mobility scooters, eBikes or power assisted pedal cycles, and electric personal transporters (such as Segways) are also not eRideables, and are governed by their own rules under the Road Traffic Code 2000.

types of scooters include a kick scooter, low powered motorised scooter, and electric scooters

What to look for when buying an eRideable

If you’re thinking about buying an eRideable, make sure that the one that you pick is in line with the rules. This is what to look out for:  

Size and weight

Make sure that the device you are considering is no more than 125cm long, 70cm wide and 135cm high, and does not weigh more than 25kg.

Power and speed

Check the device's capabilities - it should not be able to travel faster than 25km/h on level ground. As long as the device fits the size and speed requirements, there is no restrictions on power output.

If you plan on buying a scooter for someone under 16, make sure it is a motorised scooter and not an eRideable - in this case the device should have a maximum power of 200 watts and max speed of 10km/h. It is illegal for under-16s to use an eRideable. 

Design

Make sure that there are no sharp edges on the device that could cause injury, and check that it is comfortable to use. 

Lights and reflectors

If possible, look for devices that have lights and reflectors fitted. Look out for: 

  • a white light at the front of the device
  • red light and red reflector on the back of the device
  • two yellow reflectors on the side of the device 

Sounds

Make sure the eRideable is fitted with a warning device (such as a bell) if practical. If the device you've chosen doesn't include a bell, consider adding one.

Helmet standards

Always wear a helmet when riding any form of scooter or eRideable. Make sure any helmet you purchase complies with the current Australian Standard (AS/NZS 2063) by looking for any of the following stickers:

Australian standard stickers for approved motorcycle and bicycle helmets

eRideable learning resources

Links to fact sheets, quizzes, and other learning resources.

For printable posters, fact sheets and learning materials, visit our eRideable resources page.

eRideables Fact Sheets and Posters

Our Get Streetwise website has videos and quizzes on eRideables and other road safety topics.

Take the eRideables Get Streetwise Quiz