People over the age of 16 will be able to legally ride e-scooters and other personal mobility devices on South Australian footpaths, bike paths, and many bike lanes and roads from Sunday 13 July.
Under the regulations, recently finalised by the State Government, riders will be required to wear a helmet and use a flashing light when riding at night or in low light.
They will not need a licence and there will be no requirement for the device to be registered.
Riders of all devices will need to travel at no more than 10km/h on footpaths, beaches, and shared paths.
Legal personal mobility devices may include e-scooters, e-skateboards and e-solo-wheels that meet the regulated specifications.
Only e-scooters will be permitted on roads where the maximum speed limit is 60km/h, but must ride in the bike lane and travel at a speed no greater than 25km/h.
All other devices will be permitted on roads where the speed limit is 50km/h or less, and must travel at a speed no greater than 25km/h.
It will be an offence to ride while under the influence of alcohol or drugs, and riders must not carry a passenger or hold a mobile phone when riding.
For devices with handlebars, mounting a phone to the handlebars is allowed for GPS navigation or as a speedometer.
Penalties will apply for anyone caught speeding or riding under the influence, including fines and potential loss of demerit points.
Initially, e-scooters and other personal mobility devices will not be permitted on Adelaide Metro trains, trams and buses.
RAA Senior Manager Safety and Infrastructure Charles Mountain said e-scooters helped take pressure off the state's road network.
"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," Mr Mountain said.
"Their introduction also needs to come with a strong education campaign to raise awareness and prioritise safety for all road and footpath users."
"RAA will 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."
The regulations were informed by a number of e-scooter trials, followed by consultation with key stakeholders and leading industry experts.
A widespread public education campaign will roll out in the lead-up to 13 July, ensuring all South Australians are aware of the new rules and their road safety obligations.
The State Government will review the operation of the new rules in July 2026 to ensure the regulatory regime is fit-for-purpose, safe and enforceable.
For more information visit the My Licence website.
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