Riding & safety
Youth electric scooter safety and responsible riding
A parent-focused framework for readiness, protective equipment, practice, local rules and responsible use.
Applies to: Privately owned youth electric scooters. This guide does not override local age restrictions, manufacturer instructions or medical advice.
Start with readiness and local law, not the box alone
A manufacturer age label describes the market for a product; it does not establish that a particular child is ready or legally permitted to ride. The American Academy of Pediatrics advises that children under 16 should not operate motorized or electric scooters. Local rules can set age, helmet, speed and riding-location requirements. Read the AAP guidance.
A parent should consider judgment, balance, ability to follow rules, braking skill and the route. A non-motorized scooter may be the better first step.
Use protective equipment every ride
Require a properly fitted helmet and closed-toe shoes. Knee and elbow protection can reduce injury in a fall. Bright or reflective clothing helps others see a small, quiet rider, but visibility equipment does not make traffic riding appropriate.
CPSC advises following the product’s age and weight limits, inspecting the scooter before riding and testing the brakes in a clear area. Review CPSC’s micromobility checklist.
Build skills in a controlled area
- Set the lowest available speed mode.
- Practice starting, straight-line riding and smooth braking on a dry, level surface away from vehicles and pedestrians.
- Teach the rider to stop before looking at a phone, adjusting clothing or talking to someone.
- Use both hands, one rider per scooter and no headphones.
- Increase speed or route complexity only after consistent control.
Practice an emergency stop without encouraging abrupt maneuvers that can cause a fall.
Make responsible riding part of ownership
Set clear boundaries for where, when and with whom the scooter may be used. Yield to pedestrians, slow before driveways and crossings, and never surprise people from behind. Do not ride on a sidewalk, road, park path or bike lane unless local rules allow the scooter there. Park without blocking a walkway, ramp or doorway.
A young rider should know that a faster setting is a responsibility, not a reward, and that the scooter is put away when rules are ignored.
Keep battery care with the adult
An adult should inspect the charger and battery area, use only the supplied or specifically approved charger, remain present while charging and unplug when complete. Do not charge while asleep or use a damaged, modified or repurposed battery. CPSC also advises taking lithium batteries to an appropriate recycler rather than putting them in household trash. Read CPSC’s charging guidance.
Use a simple family riding plan
Before the first ride
- Confirm local age and location rules.
- Check fit, weight limit and the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Choose protective equipment and a supervised practice area.
- Agree on speed mode, route, daylight and weather limits.
- Assign charging, storage and inspection to an adult.
Browse the youth category as a research starting point. A listing is not a recommendation for every child.