Can You Get a DUI on an Electric Scooter?

Yes, you can get a DUI on an electric scooter in California because state laws apply drunk driving charges to any motorized vehicle operated under the influence of alcohol or drugs. If you were recently charged with a DUI in California, you may feel stressed, embarrassed, or unsure about what comes next.

Connecting with a Los Angeles DUI lawyer gives you the support of a compassionate criminal defense attorney who can review your situation and find the best path forward if you were accused of riding an electric scooter under the influence.

How Scooters Fit into California’s DUI Laws

According to 2025 drunk driving statistics, California has one of the highest numbers of drunk driving arrests in the country for DUIs involving motor vehicles. While most DUI cases involve cars or motorcycles, DUI laws under the California Vehicle Code also extend to bicycles, electric scooters, and even electric bikes.

In cities like Los Angeles, Bird scooters, Lime scooters, and electric bicycles are seemingly everywhere. Apps remind riders not to drink alcohol or use drugs before unlocking them, but despite this, accidents with motor vehicles and pedestrians still occur.

Because of these risks, DUI laws have been interpreted to cover motorized scooters on public roads. If you are facing charges for drunk driving on an electric scooter, you’re not alone; a criminal defense attorney can help.

Defining a Vehicle Under California Law

Under California law, a vehicle is defined as any device propelled by something other than human power. This broad definition includes electric scooters, motorized scooters, and electric bikes.

California drunk driving laws consider someone impaired if their blood alcohol content (BAC) is .08% or higher, determined by chemical testing such as a breathalyzer or blood alcohol content analysis. Field sobriety tests and field sobriety testing may also be used in certain legal contexts.

Potential Penalties

California vehicle codes were updated to include penalties specific to e-scooter DUIs. Although the sanctions are not as harsh as those for motor vehicles, they still carry legal consequences. For a first offense DUI involving motor vehicles, consequences may include:

• A $1,000 fine
• A six-month suspension of your driver’s license
• Possible jail time
• Probation
• Enrollment in a DUI program
• Ignition Interlock Device (IID) or interlock devices
• Community service or community restitution
• Substance abuse screening or treatment
• Hospital and Morgue program (HAM) or victim impact panel
• Higher insurance rates, SR22 car insurance requirements, and a long-term impact on your arrest record

For a DUI on a motorized scooter, penalties are less severe and may include:

• A maximum fine of $250 per offense
• Temporary restrictions on riding electric scooters
• Restitution for any damage or injuries caused

Even though scooter DUIs do not result in automatic license suspension, they can still affect your record, court fees, and insurance rates, which can impact your daily life.

What to Do if You are Charged with a DUI on an Electric Scooter

Facing a DUI charge on an electric scooter under California law can feel overwhelming, but taking the right steps quickly can make a big difference in how your case turns out. Here are some crucial actions to consider:

1. Stay calm and cooperate with law enforcement: Arguing or resisting only makes the situation worse; follow traffic laws, comply with reasonable requests, and avoid saying more than necessary.
2. Understand the charge: A DUI on a motorized scooter falls under state laws and vehicle codes, and while penalties may differ from motor vehicles, they still carry legal consequences.
3. Document everything: Write down details about the stop, field sobriety tests, or field sobriety testing, and whether chemical testing or a chemical test was requested.
4. Protect your driver’s license and record: Even though scooter DUIs may not always result in license suspension, court fees, insurance rates, or SR22 car insurance requirements could still affect you.
5. Seek guidance from a DUI lawyer: A Los Angeles DUI lawyer or criminal defense attorney can review evidence like eyewitness testimony, video surveillance, or forensic evidence and challenge the strength of the case.

Defending a Scooter DUI

A DUI lawyer or criminal defense lawyer understands that every case is unique. Scooter DUI charges often begin with law enforcement alleging impaired behavior, followed by sobriety tests or field sobriety testing.

However, operators are not required to submit to a breathalyzer, chemical test, or chemical testing for BAC when riding motorized scooters. Without solid evidence, these cases can be more difficult for prosecutors to prove.

If you are facing allegations, a criminal defense attorney can work to challenge questionable evidence collection, eyewitness accounts, or material facts. With the right legal process and guidance, many scooter DUI cases can be resolved without long-term harm to your future.

Get Connected With a DUI Lawyer in Los Angeles Today

So, can you get a DUI on an electric scooter? The answer is yes. Being charged under California DUI laws, whether involving a motor vehicle, electric scooter, or electric bike, is overwhelming—but you do not have to go through it alone. 

A lawyer can walk you through the legal process, explain penalties, and build a strong defense strategy. From traffic violations to allegations of public intoxication or a second offense, criminal defense lawyers are here to fight for your rights. 

Los Angeles DUI Lawyer is here to connect you with a legal professional to discuss your case and take the first step toward protecting your future. We have nearly two decades of experience and are standing by to be your legal resource. For more information, visit our FAQ page.