Electric scooter laws in Queensland: what is legal in 2026
The current device definition requires no more than 60 kg, 750 mm width, 1350 mm height and 1100 mm wheelbase for devices with two or more axles, with motor-only capability no more than 25 km/h. A conditional transition through 28 February 2027 covers formerly compliant devices manufactured before 1 July 2026; do not infer this from a model year. General rider rules are age 16+ and a valid learner-or-higher licence, with specified supervision, medical and designated-area exceptions.
Last reviewed 17 Oct 2026
Electric scooter rider in Queensland. Photo for illustration.
Key points
- Check the exact Australian unit, not an overseas or sibling model.
- Maximum device capability and riding-speed caps are different.
- Unknown required dimensions, wheelbase, power or configuration are not an approval.
Before you buy or ride
The current device definition requires no more than 60 kg, 750 mm width, 1350 mm height and 1100 mm wheelbase for devices with two or more axles, with motor-only capability no more than 25 km/h. A conditional transition through 28 February 2027 covers formerly compliant devices manufactured before 1 July 2026; do not infer this from a model year. General rider rules are age 16+ and a valid learner-or-higher licence, with specified supervision, medical and designated-area exceptions.
Queensland: check the exact device
No more than 60 kg, 750 mm wide and 1350 mm high; wheelbase no more than 1100 mm for two or more axles. Effective stopping system and a warning device where required. The current PMD definition includes motor-only capability no more than 25 km/h. Through 28 February 2027, a transition covers devices manufactured before 1 July 2026 that met the former definition. A model year or app mode does not establish this exception; we do not presume it for unverified units.
Riding speed and places
12 km/h on footpaths and crossings, and when passing pedestrians on shared paths. Otherwise obey signed path limits up to 25 km/h. Roads up to 60 km/h and specified bicycle-lane exceptions; check signs and the route.
Rider age, licence and exceptions
General rule: age 16+ and a valid learner-or-higher driver licence. Specified exceptions cover supervised riders aged 12 to 17 (including unlicensed 16 and 17 year olds), eligible medical exemptions for riders 16+, and designated recreational areas. Supervision and exemption conditions still apply. A transitional reasonable-excuse provision for the licence requirement runs through 29 November 2026; it is not a blanket licence exemption.
Queensland Government current guidance, checked 2026-10-17. Check a specific device for QLD.
Use the buyer tools carefully
Filter the scooter directory, compare your shortlist and check the model for your state. Results use published evidence, not a physical certification. Confirm working brakes, warning device, lights, helmet, route signs and rider eligibility before riding.
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The speed on a display is not the whole device definition.
Frequently asked questions
Does a speed mode or retailer label establish legal eligibility?
No. Check maximum device capability, required weight, dimensions, stopping equipment and any wheelbase or power definition. Missing evidence stays unconfirmed. Rider conditions and permitted locations are separate.
What does Queensland's February 2027 transition mean?
The current PMD definition includes motor-only capability no more than 25 km/h. Through 28 February 2027, a transition covers devices manufactured before 1 July 2026 that met the former definition. A model year or app mode does not establish this exception; we do not presume it for unverified units.
Sources
- Queensland Government (checked 17 Oct 2026)
- QLD operative legislation and history (checked 17 Oct 2026)
- QLD operative legislation and history (checked 17 Oct 2026)