Singapore will implement stricter rules for Personal Mobility Aids (PMAs) from Jun. 1, 2026, as authorities move to tighten safety standards and curb the misuse of mobility devices on public paths.
Under the updated regulations introduced by the Land Transport Authority (LTA), PMA users will now be restricted to a maximum speed of 6km/h — roughly equivalent to a brisk walking pace. This marks a significant reduction from the current 10km/h limit.
Users caught exceeding the new speed limit could face penalties of up to S$2,000, a jail term of up to six months, or both. Repeat offenders may receive even harsher punishments.
Existing PMAs capable of travelling up to 10km/h can still be used during a transition period lasting until Dec. 31, 2028. However, riders must still obey the new 6km/h speed cap while using public paths.
The new rules are part of Singapore’s broader push to improve pedestrian safety amid growing concerns over mobility device misuse in crowded public areas such as HDB estates, park connectors and town centres.
Medical Certificate Now Needed For Many Mobility Scooter Users
One of the biggest changes involves the introduction of mandatory medical certification requirements for many mobility scooter users.
From Jun. 1 onwards, riders of mobility scooters and similar motorised mobility devices must possess a valid Certificate of Medical Need unless they fall under specific exempted groups.
To obtain certification, users must undergo an Assessment for Mobility Scooter (AMS), which can be conducted by a regular doctor, occupational therapist or participating general practitioner.
However, seniors aged 70 and above will automatically be exempted from this requirement. Beneficiaries under selected disability and mobility support schemes, including the Assistive Technology Fund (ATF) and Seniors’ Mobility and Enabling Fund (SMF), are also exempted.
Authorities said enforcement officers will focus particularly on “visibly able-bodied” riders suspected of misusing mobility scooters without legitimate medical needs.
Individuals caught riding mobility scooters without proper certification may face fines of up to S$2,000, six months’ jail, or both.
Businesses allowing uncertified workers to use mobility scooters during work operations could also face penalties under the new laws.
New Registration, Weight & Fire Safety Rules Introduced
Apart from speed restrictions, PMAs will also be subjected to tighter size and weight controls.
From Jun. 1, mobility devices used on public paths cannot exceed:
- 120cm in length
- 70cm in width
- 150cm in height
- 300kg combined weight including rider
Those caught using oversized or non-compliant devices could face fines of up to S$10,000 or imprisonment.
Meanwhile, all mobility scooters sold in Singapore must now be officially registered with LTA. Retailers may only advertise and sell LTA-approved devices beginning Jun. 1.
Importers and manufacturers will also need proper Health Sciences Authority (HSA) medical device licences before scooters can be legally sold.
In a further crackdown on fire risks, registered e-scooters must comply with the UL2272 fire safety certification standard and undergo inspections every two years.
Keeping or using non-certified e-scooters will become an offence, with violators facing fines of up to S$2,000 or jail terms of up to three months.
Singapore Tightens Enforcement Amid Rising Public Complaints
The stricter PMA regulations come after years of growing public frustration over reckless riding behaviour, pavement accidents and mobility device abuse across Singapore.
Concerns have intensified in recent years after videos surfaced online showing individuals using mobility scooters at unsafe speeds, weaving through pedestrians or using oversized devices in crowded public spaces.
The Government said the latest rules aim to strike a balance between ensuring accessibility for people with genuine mobility needs while maintaining public safety for other path users.
LTA will begin phased registration exercises for existing mobility scooters from mid-2027, with non-registered scooters becoming illegal on public paths from Jan. 1, 2029.
Singapore residents can check their exemption eligibility, registration requirements and whitelisted mobility scooter models through the LTA OneMotoring portal.