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Micromobility is here to stay, and it’s changing how we experience urban life for the better. With Unagi’s membership program, you can enjoy all the benefits of a top-tier electric scooter without the sky-high price of ownership or the inconvenience of ride-sharing.
We’re excited to celebrate Unagi’s 5th Anniversary, and we want you to join the fun! To thank you for your support, we're hosting an exclusive $10,000 Airbnb giveaway. No purchase necessary—just enter for your chance to win! Hurry, the giveaway ends on 10/4/2024!
In today’s fast-paced world, finding an efficient and cost-effective mode of transportation is crucial. E-scooters offer a convenient and eco-friendly way to navigate urban landscapes. Unagi stands out not only for its superior design and performance but also for its affordability and unmatched rental program.
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Ready to ride the revolution? Electric scooters in Washington, D.C. are transforming the way we explore the city, combining convenience, fun, and a touch of eco-friendly flair. These lightweight electric scooters are your ticket to zipping through traffic, uncovering scenic routes, and experiencing the 150 miles of bike lanes and trails D.C. has to offer, like never before.
But before you hit the streets, there are a few things you need to know. From the ins and outs of local laws to the most picturesque paths and essential riding tips, this guide has it all.
This comprehensive article will cover these laws, offer recommendations for acquiring an electric scooter within the district, suggest scenic routes for enjoyable rides, and provide tips to enhance your scooter ownership and riding experience in D.C.
Yes, they are legal in the district, with over 28 million trips recorded in the city since 2019 by the District Department of Transportation. However, it's not a free-for-all; specific regulations are in place to ensure the safety of both electric scooter riders and other road users.
According to DC law, electric scooters are governed under the broader category of “Personal Mobility Devices” (PMDs), which includes heavier motorized devices and self-balancing devices with various propulsion systems, not just electric. They can also fall under the more specific category of “Electric Mobility Devices” (EMDs), which provides a near-exact description of electric scooters but limits the weight of the devices to below 75 lbs and requires that they be propelled by an electric motor.
Fortunately, the laws governing PMDs and EMDs are similar in most cases, so there is not much conflict between them. Combining both sets of regulations gives a comprehensive overview of the rules for electric scooters.
Here's a skeleton breakdown of the laws, which we will discuss in detail in the proceeding sections.
Rider requirements:
Riding rules:
Parking:
Additional rules:
Operating restrictions:
Here's an easy infographic that summarizes these rules in an easy-to-remember format.
Electric scooters can fall under two legal categories: "Personal Mobility Devices" (PMDs) and "Electric Mobility Devices" (EMDs). While the PMD category is more inclusive and may encompass a variety of mobility devices, the EMD category is more specific and primarily refers to electric scooters. Understanding the distinction between these two can help you determine how your scooter is classified under DC law.
A "Personal Mobility Device," or "PMD," is defined as a motorized propulsion device designed to transport only one person that either:
On the other hand, an "Electric Mobility Device" or "EMD" is defined as a device weighing less than 75 pounds that:
Key differences:
Weight: An EMD weighs less than 75 pounds, while a PMD weighs 75 pounds or more.
Power source: EMDs are powered by an electric motor or human power. PMDs can have various types of motorized propulsion, not limited to electric motors.
Design features: PMDs are one-person vehicles that may include a variety of mobility devices. Electric mobility scooters are designed to transport a person in a standing or seated position without being enclosed, with specific size restrictions (no greater than 24 inches wide and 55 inches long).
Based on these features and dimensions, you can categorize your scooter as either an EMD or a PMD.
Additional safety and equipment requirements:
Personal mobility vehicles, which include electric scooters, are restricted to a maximum speed of 10 mph, which is one of the lowest speed limits for e-scooters in the United States.
Nope, you don’t need a license to ride your personal e-scooter in D.C. However, some shared scooter companies, like Lyft, might require you to have a valid driver's license or ID card, which you’ll need to upload before you start your ride.
The legal age to ride an electric scooter in D.C. is 16. However, scooter-sharing companies have the authority to bump that, with most requiring you to be at least 18 years old to ride.
Riders under the age of 16 are required to wear a helmet when operating a scooter. Parents or guardians are on the hook for making sure they’re geared up. Skip the helmet, and you’re looking at a $25 fine. First-time offenders or those who buy a compliant helmet after the ticket can get that fine waived if they show proof of purchase (before the fine is due).
For more information on helmet options, check out our article on the best electric scooter helmets.
Nope, it’s illegal to carry a passenger on your electric scooter or haul goods that stop you from keeping both hands on the handlebars. If you need to carry items, consider using a backpack or, even better, get yourself an electric scooter built for carrying cargo. For some killer recommendations, dive into our article on the best electric scooters for carrying stuff.
You bet. It’s illegal to ride an electric scooter under the influence of alcohol or drugs in D.C. If you get caught scooting while tipsy, you could face fines up to $150 upon conviction. So, keep the party off the handlebars.
As of now, you don't need insurance for your electric scooter, and there's no need to register it with the DMV like you would with other motor vehicles. However, the mayor has the authority to change things up and establish a registration process, which could require electric scooters to have a serial number, valid registration tag, or registration plate.
You can legally ride electric scooters in the following areas:
D.C. might be pretty chill with e-scooters, but there are a few spots where you need to keep those wheels off the ground:
These zones are marked in red on maps and are geofenced for shared scooters, meaning they’ll automatically shut down if you ride into these areas. The zones are heavily trafficked by pedestrians and hold significant historical, cultural, or administrative importance.
The restrictions help maintain the decorum of these spaces and ensure the safety of visitors and workers in the area. However, you can still ride scooters on sidewalks and roads outside of the designated memorial areas.
Yes, you can ride on most sidewalks in Washington D.C., with the exception of the Central Business District and other locations where signs are posted prohibiting it. The CBD, which covers downtown and the U.S. Capitol grounds, is defined as the area enclosed by:
Riding your scooter on CBD sidewalks can get you a $25 fine.
In areas where sidewalk-riding is allowed, always remember to yield to pedestrians, as they have the right of way. If you collide with a pedestrian in these areas, you could face a fine of up to $250, 30 days imprisonment, or both.
Yes, you can ride e-scooters on most low-speed roads in Washington, D.C. However, they are not allowed on interstates. When riding on the road, you have all the general rights and duties of vehicle drivers, which means you need to follow traffic laws, such as indicating when you're turning, stopping at red lights, and so on.
While it is sometimes advisable to take your own lane on the road to improve visibility and reduce the risk of cars swiping you or squeezing you into the curb, the low-speed limit of 10 mph placed on electric scooters makes this impractical. Going that slow in the middle of a lane is going to hold up traffic, which isn’t just annoying for drivers, it's illegal. Therefore, you should move to the right side of the road as safely as possible and avoid hazards like parked cars, pavement irregularities, and other obstacles.
As long as e-scooters are restricted to 10 mph, riding them on the road will always feel a bit dicey. Traffic often moves much faster, making you feel like a target, and if something goes wrong, the consequences can be severe. The slow speed limit might eventually push you to ride on the sidewalk, but even there, 10 mph can be too fast and unsafe for pedestrians. Your best bet is just to stick to protected bike lanes.
First things first, make sure your e-scooter is parked in an upright position. It's neat, takes up less space, and minimizes the risk of someone tripping over it.
As for where to park, D.C. has some specific rules. Scooter riders are required to park and lock shared electric scooters to designated city infrastructure after use. This includes the over 1,000 bike racks installed in the city, in-street corrals, scooter docks provided by operators, or other marked zones for scooter parking.
Besides bike racks and corrals, it’s also cool to lock your scooter to parking signposts, stop signs, or parking meters, as long as it doesn’t block pedestrian pathways. Shared scooter companies are responsible for providing the locking mechanisms and instructions for riders to use them responsibly.
If designated spots are full, you can park your electric scooter in the furniture zone of the sidewalk (where one exists). Just make sure to leave at least 5 feet of space for pedestrians to pass. And, of course, to lock your electric scooter securely as per the law.
Don’t stress too much about finding a spot, though. D.C. has plenty of off-street parking corral options, as shown in the image above, so it’s rare to miss a spot.
Private scooters can also be parked in these areas, but it’s better to walk around with your electric scooter rather than leave it outside, even for a brief moment, to avoid theft and any disturbance as people might mistake it for a shared scooter. Investing in an electric scooter satchel can make carrying it around a breeze.
The general rule everywhere is to avoid parking your electric scooter in a way that affects the movement of any traffic (pedestrians, cyclists, or cars) or obstructs emergency routes and infrastructure. It's the same here in D.C.; avoid parking your electric scooter:
Additionally, don’t park in a manner that:
When it comes to locking your electric scooter, avoid securing it to:
There are several convenient ways to access electric scooters in Washington, D.C., including:
There are thousands of electric scooters available for rent throughout Washington, D.C., provided by four main DDOT-approved companies: Lime, Lyft, Spin, and Veo. The exact number of scooters varies, but there are more than 8,000 dockless vehicles available across all eight wards in the District, particularly in high-traffic areas such as downtown, near Metro stations, and in popular neighborhoods. Lime and Spin hold the largest share of scooters in the pool, so most of the scooters you see around will likely be theirs.
These rental scooters are easily accessible through mobile apps with pay-as-you-go pricing and are available in various locations across the city, making them ideal for one-time, short trips, and first- or last-mile connectivity.
The catch? Each company has its own app, which means you'll need to download a bunch of different ones and create multiple accounts. It's a bit of a hassle, but having all the apps increases your pool and chances of finding an e-scooter when you need one. Also, due to their popularity, it’s best to reserve scooters ahead of time directly in the provider’s app.
The best thing about rental scooters is that you don’t have to worry about maintenance. The companies handle all the upkeep and repairs, so you just hop on and go. They’re also equipped with speed limiters to keep you within legal limits and are geofenced to alert you when you’re in restricted areas, helping you stay on the right side of the law.
They, however, have limited range, making them only great for short trips. Always check the battery life before starting your trip to make sure it’ll get you to your destination.
Occasionally, you may also encounter scooters that haven't been well-maintained. Shared scooters are used by multiple riders throughout the day, some of whom may not treat them with the same care as personal vehicles, causing more frequent damage and significant wear and tear. The scooters are also exposed to various weather conditions, including rain and extreme temperatures, which exacerbates the issue. While companies strive to keep their fleets operational, the large number of scooters makes it logistically challenging to regularly check and maintain each one.
So before anything, give the brakes and overall functionality a quick test before heading off to ensure they are working properly, avoiding any surprises. And let’s not forget the hygiene factor. Shared scooters can get pretty grimy, so keep some sanitizer or wipes handy to clean the handlebars before you ride.
Generally, you'll pay an unlock fee and a per-minute usage fee. The unlock fee is usually $1, and the usage fee ranges from $0.25 to $0.35 per minute, depending on the company. Eligible D.C. residents can apply for discounted fares.
So, if you need a little more convenience than rental scooters, like having a scooter 100% available whenever you need it without the hefty upfront cost of buying one, subscription services might be your jam. It’s also a fantastic way to test out electric scooters for your commutes long-term if you’re not fully sold on the whole idea yet.
Subscription services let you pay for a monthly or annual plan, giving you access to your own personal electric scooter for the duration of your subscription. UNAGI has rolled out such a service in D.C., offering their premium electric scooters. Sign up on the UNAGI website, and once subscribed, your UNAGI scooter gets delivered directly to your doorstep free of charge within 72 hours. The subscription plans start at $59 per month for access to the lightweight UNAGI Model One electric scooter, and at $79 per month, you get the upgraded UNAGI Voyager lightweight electric scooter.
These high-quality scooters provide a superior riding experience compared to typical rental models. Both weigh less than 30 lbs and have a one-click folding system, making them easy to carry around—whether to the office or even onto a bus for intermodal transportation. Perfect commute buddies right there.
When it comes to performance, these dual-motor scooters with puncture-proof tires can handle hills and hit speeds of up to 20 mph, which you can dial down to the city’s 10 mph limit via the app. They’re powered by high-quality LG batteries, offering 12-25 miles of range depending on your riding style, which is plenty for most daily commutes. Even if you run out of juice, the 3-4 hour charging time gets you back on the road in no time. Unlike rentals, your UNAGI scooter is always charged and ready to go, eliminating the hassle of searching for available scooters or dealing with dead batteries.
The subscription includes unlimited rides, home delivery, maintenance, and repairs, so you never have to worry about breakdowns or malfunctions. It also comes with comprehensive insurance for theft or damage, giving you peace of mind. The subscription can be paused or canceled at any time, providing flexibility for users who might not need the scooter year-round.
As a bonus, you get to join the exclusive Unagi Community, which hosts cool activities, community events, exclusive offers, and a platform to share experiences with other UNAGI scooter riders. The company also organizes monthly group rides in the area, offering excellent networking opportunities and a chance to explore new places together. Check out the comprehensive yearly calendar for upcoming events.
If you’ve got the cash to dish out for a new scooter and you’re set on using electric scooters for most of your travels, buying one might be a solid option. While the initial investment is higher, buying a scooter can save you money in the long run compared to renting.
D.C. doesn’t have as many brick-and-mortar stores for electric scooters as cities like New York or San Francisco, but there are still a few spots worth checking out. College Scooters is a good place to start, and they might have a decent selection of electric scooters to choose from. You could also check out big-box stores like Costco or Best Buy; they sometimes stock basic entry-level electric scooters, which might be worth your attention.
For a broader selection and potentially better deals, shopping online is the way to go. You’ll find a variety of models with detailed specs and customer reviews to help you make an informed decision.
In addition to the subscription service mentioned earlier, Unagi also sells its scooters. If you prefer to own one, check out their premium models, the Unagi Model One and the Voyager available for sale on the website.
Before making a purchase, check out our article on electric scooter buying tips for adults to get a perspective on the important features you should consider.
Washington, D.C., has over 150 miles of bike lanes and trails that run along some of the most picturesque scenery in the city. They offer a variety of experiences, from historic landmarks to beautiful waterfront views. Here are some of the major ones:
Length and route: This approximately 20-mile trail runs on both sides of the Anacostia River, from Navy Yard to Bladensburg Waterfront Park.
Trail surface and quality: The trail is wide, paved, smooth, and well-maintained.
Trail's topography: Mostly flat with minor inclines, typically 5% or less.
Amenities and facilities: Restrooms, water fountains, playfields, picnic areas, benches, and places to eat, especially near the Navy Yard and The Wharf.
Connectivity and accessibility: The Anacostia Riverwalk Trail is easily accessible from multiple points, including Metro stations, and connects to other paved trails like the Northwest Branch Trail and Northeast Branch Trail, allowing for extended trips as part of the Capital Trails Coalition.
Points of interest
Good things:
Difficulties:
Points of interest:
Good things:
Difficulties:
The Mount Vernon Trail is an 18-mile scenic path stretching from George Washington's Mount Vernon estate to Theodore Roosevelt Island. Running alongside the Potomac River, the trail offers picturesque views of Washington D.C. monuments, Old Town Alexandria, and George Washington's Mount Vernon estate. It’s popular for walking, running, and birdwatching, connecting various parks, historic sites, and urban areas, making it a versatile route for both recreation and commuting. The trail is well-maintained and features amenities such as restrooms, picnic spots, water fountains, and informational signage along the way.
As of now, the Mount Vernon Trail does not allow any motorized vehicles, including electric scooters. The use of electric scooters on this trail remains in a gray area, and it is essential to respect the current regulations.
However, as it stands, they do not allow any motorized vehicles on the trail, so electric scooter use is still in the gray area. However, it's still a fantastic route to explore using alternative means of transportation, such as walking or standard bikes.
The Rock Creek Park Bike Trail is a historic multi-use trail that runs along Rock Creek and passes through one of Washington, D.C.'s largest and most beloved parks. Here’s a detailed overview of the trail:
Points of interest
Good things
Difficulties
The Hains Point Loop is a popular recreational trail located in East Potomac Park in Washington, D.C. It offers scenic views of the Potomac River, the Washington Channel, and various landmarks in the nation's capital. Here’s a detailed overview of the trail:
Points of interest:
Good things:
Difficulties:
After completing the Hains Point Loop, you can connect to the:
You can start this tour at the West Potomac Park trail, then follow paths around the National Mall, Tidal Basin, and the Potomac River. This route will take you through some of the most significant monuments, memorials, and museums in Washington, D.C. However, remember that riding scooters at the monuments is not allowed, and it’s usually crowded, making it impractical. Instead, ride on the outside paths of the National Mall, and when you approach important sites, it’s best to push your scooter.
Here’s a detailed overview of the trail:
Points of interest:
Good things:
Difficulties:
The Metropolitan Branch Trail (MBT) is a multi-use trail that provides a vital connection between Washington, D.C., and Silver Spring, Maryland. This urban trail offers a scenic route for electric scooter riders, showcasing both the cityscape and quieter green spaces. The trail generally follows the Metro's Red Line, running parallel to the train tracks and major thoroughfares.
Here’s a detailed overview of the trail:
Points of interest:
Good things:
Difficulties:
Poorly marked, especially in the on-street sections, leading to confusion and frequent wrong turns. The signage needs to clearly guide electric scooter users through the trail, particularly where the path seemingly ends and picks up again.
Some areas feel a bit sketchy and may feel less safe, especially during off-peak hours. The trail’s design, which in some parts is hemmed between fences, leaves limited options for escape in case of trouble.
Electric scooters are generally safe as long as they are used responsibly, but that doesn't change the fact that the city has car-oriented infrastructure and sometimes aggressive drivers and pedestrians who might make this harder than it’s supposed to be. Here are a few tips to help:
Given the limited speed of 10 mph you are working with in D.C. and the generally flat terrain of the area, you really don't need anything overly powerful or fast. You just need something practical—powerful enough to tackle most terrains, with a good range, comfortable to ride, and portable enough to carry anywhere. In short, you need a portable, lightweight dual-motor electric scooter which the Unagi Voyager fits perfectly.
It is comfortable to ride and is equipped with dual motors that generate a peak of 1000W, allowing it to easily tackle any <10% grade hill. It weighs 29.6 lbs and is foldable, which is manageable for many people to carry. It is not excessively fast, hitting a max speed of 20 mph, which is ideal for the Washington D.C., regulations.
The speed can be dialed down to the legally required 10 mph using the UNAGI app, ensuring that you won't be on the wrong side of the law.
There are a number of lightweight electric scooters on the market you can also look at, but it's really hard to find one that has dual motors. Most lightweight scooters are either single-motor or underpowered, while most dual-motor scooters weigh over 50 lbs, which can be an issue if you use the scooter for daily commutes. Lugging around that much weight on the metro, bus, or stairs can be tedious, even if it's just for a short while.
In the U.S., most states don't require a license. For those that do, they usually just ask for a regular driver's license or a learner's permit.
Yes, you can bring an electric scooter on a plane, but it needs to have a lithium battery smaller than 100 watt-hours, which most don't.
Manufacturers advise against riding electric scooters in the rain. The main reasons are: water can fry the electronics, make the ride dangerous, and void your warranty.
“Is my scooter legal?” is a question many are increasingly asking. The micromobility industry is one of the fastest-growing and most exciting in the world—with promises for...in addition to abundances of the basics of time and money savings. And with this pace of innovation comes a struggle for regulation to keep up.
So, you're thinking about joining the electric scooter revolution, huh? You've seen those sleek and stylish scooters zipping around town, effortlessly gliding through traffic, and you can't help but wonder: Are electric scooters easy to ride?
In this guide, we'll break down what defines a lightweight electric scooter, why you should choose one, and the top features you should look for.
Want to get the most out of your electric scooter battery and extend your riding adventures? We've got you covered with our comprehensive guide full of maintenance tips and best practices.
*Disclaimer: Unagi, INC. has used best efforts, but does not in any manner guarantee the accuracy of the below findings regarding electric scooter laws in the United States or internationally. Electric scooter riders or those considering to purchase or begin…
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