New driver’s licence rule comes into force for millions of e-bike and e-scooter riders in Queensland
Queenslanders aged 16 and over must now hold at least a valid learner licence to ride an e-bike, e-scooter or other covered e-mobility device in public.
The new licensing requirement is part of Queensland’s sweeping e-mobility crackdown, which began on July 1 with tougher penalties and new police powers to seize illegal devices and randomly breath-test riders.
Those aged 12 to 17 can still ride without a licence if they are supervised by a parent or caregiver.
Designated recreational areas, including mountain bike trails, are exempt from the licensing requirements.
Police will conduct random checks to ensure riders are licensed.
‘E-mobility devices are vehicles that must be operated safely, responsibly and under Queensland road rules,’ Queensland Police Acting Deputy Commissioner Rhys Wildman said.
A 13-year-old boy died on Saturday from critical injuries suffered in an e-scooter crash in Bundaberg, reigniting calls for tougher age restrictions.
‘Children under 16 years simply do not have the skills needed to ride these devices safely, especially around vehicles, other riders and pedestrians,’ Australian Medical Association Queensland President Associate Professor Erica Gannon told the ABC.
Queenslanders aged 16 and over must now hold at least a valid learner licence to ride an e-bike, e-scooter or other covered e-mobility device in public
Queensland e-bike and e-scooter rules: What you need to know
- Riders aged 16 and over must hold at least a valid learner licence to ride unsupervised in public.
- Children aged 12 to 17 can ride under the supervision of a parent or caregiver.
- People unable to hold a licence because of a medical condition or disability are exempt.
- Licensing requirements do not apply in designated recreational areas such as mountain bike trails – and there is no age limit in these areas.
- E-mobility devices are limited to 25km/h.
- E-bike motors can only provide assistance up to 25km/h.
- A 12km/h speed limit applies on footpaths.
- Riders must slow to 12km/h when passing pedestrians on shared paths.
- Riders must wear an approved helmet.
- Police can conduct random breath tests on riders.
- Police can seize non-compliant e-mobility devices.
- Tougher penalties apply for speeding, careless riding, illegally carrying passengers and drink riding.
