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Know the rules before putting e-scooters on your Black Friday shopping list

24 November, 2025

With Christmas shopping well underway by this Black Friday, RAA is reminding South Australians to check the road rules before buying e-scooters or e-bikes. 

As of July this year, private e-scooters and other personal mobility devices are now legally permitted on roads, shared paths and footpaths in South Australia – with the State Government introducing new regulations to provide a framework for their safe use. 

Under the new rules, anyone under the age of 16 is not permitted to ride an e-scooter or other personal mobility device in public.

People aged 16 and over can ride devices such as e-scooters, e-skateboards and e-solo wheels on public roads and paths under rules designed to protect both riders and other road users. 

The following includes some of the safety rules that apply to personal mobility devices: 

  • Travel at a maximum of 25km/h on roads and dedicated bicycle paths and 10km/h on footpaths, shared paths and crossings 
  • Wear a helmet at all times (full face helmets are recommended) 
  • Use a suitable white front and red rear light on the device in low light and adverse conditions 
  • Riders must be at least 16 years old 
  • E-scooters are only allowed to be ridden on roads with a speed limit of 60km/h where there is an operating bike lane – otherwise they must use the footpath and not exceed 10km/h   
  • Other devices like e-skateboards are allowed to be ridden on roads with a speed limit of 50km/h or less, and must use the bike lane if there is one 
  • For the full list of regulations, visit: My Licence – Personal Mobility Devices 

RAA Senior Manager of Safety and Infrastructure Charles Mountain said many shoppers may be unaware of the legal requirements and safety considerations for these devices. 

“Before you put an e-scooter or e-bike in your Christmas basket this Black Friday, make sure it’s safe, legal, and suitable for the person who will ride it,” Mr Mountain said. 

“We’re concerned some parents, caregivers or riders may not be fully aware of the rules that have been introduced to support their safe use. 

“Helmets, age limits, lights and safe speeds aren’t optional – they’re essential for protecting riders and everyone around them. 

“E-scooters can be convenient, but they must be used safely and in keeping with all other rules that apply to cyclists. 

“RAA also recommends riders use full-face helmets on these devices, which can be the difference between a minor incident and a serious injury. 

“Our message to riders is simple, prioritise your safety and the safety of other road and path users, know the rules and ride responsibly. 

“As more e-scooters appear on our streets, we want to see people enjoying them without putting the safety of themselves or other road users at risk.”