Mexico City Proposes Driver’s License for E-Bike, Scooter Riders

Mexico City has introduced new legislation that would require electric bicycle and scooter riders to obtain a driver’s license. The proposal, put forward this week by Mayor Clara Brugada and the Ministry of Mobility (SEMOVI), aims to regulate this rapidly growing category of vehicles, which currently lacks consistent oversight in the city.

Under the new rules, electric scooters and bicycles will be classified as Vehículos Motorizados Eléctricos Personales (VEMEPE), or Personal Electric Motorized Vehicles. This category includes any two-wheeled vehicle equipped with a handlebar and seat, powered by an electric motor, and operated via a throttle. VEMEPE vehicles will be split into two types: Type A (weighing less than 35 kg) and Type B (weighing between 35 kg and 350 kg).

Officials cite safety concerns and regulatory gaps as the primary motivations for the legislation. Since their launch in 2018, electric bikes and scooters have become increasingly popular, especially in urban areas. Their widespread use on bike lanes, roads, and sidewalks has prompted worries about accidents and public safety.

The proposal calls for operators to carry a valid license corresponding to their vehicle type, along with other required documentation as outlined by the Mobility Law and related regulations. This licensing requirement would place electric bikes and scooters under similar rules as motorcycles, requiring users to demonstrate knowledge of traffic laws, urban mobility, and safe vehicle operation. Documentation requirements would vary depending on the vehicle’s use, such as personal commuting or commercial delivery.

Additionally, SEMOVI would be tasked with conducting studies to update and adapt city infrastructure for VEMEPE vehicles, including possible changes to speed limits, lane usage, and parking regulations.

The legislation is currently being reviewed by legislative commissions for further discussion and potential amendment. While the government promotes the initiative as a step toward safer and more organized urban transport, some lawmakers believe it falls short of addressing the full scope of challenges.

“We will review how to improve this proposal, as it only addresses a small part of the daily chaos on our streets. We need to clarify rules on helmet use, bike lanes, speed limits, and dedicated lanes,” said Royfid Torres, deputy and coordinator of Movimiento Ciudadano in Mexico City’s Congress, during an interview with Radio Fórmula.