If you’re cruising through California on an electric scooter or e-bike, it may feel like you’re avoiding the risks of a DUI that come with driving a car. After all, it’s not a car — so what’s the worst that could happen, right? Unfortunately, many Californians are surprised to learn that you can be charged with a DUI while riding a scooter or e-bike.

In this blog, we’ll break down what California law says about riding under the influence, what the penalties look like, and what to do if you’ve already been charged.

California’s DUI Laws Don’t Just Apply to Cars

Under California Vehicle Code 23152, it’s illegal to operate a vehicle while under the influence of alcohol or drugs. What many people don’t realize is that “vehicle” is defined broadly — not just as a car or truck, but as any device by which a person or property may be propelled on a highway.

That definition includes electric scooters, e-bikes, mopeds, and other motorized personal transportation devices.

In fact, California has specific laws for operating certain smaller vehicles under the influence:

• CVC 21221.5 – Prohibits operating a motorized scooter under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
• CVC 21200.5 – Applies to bicycles and e-bikes, making it illegal to ride under the influence on public roads.

In short: if it has wheels and you’re sharing the road with vehicles, DUI laws can apply.

Penalties for a DUI on a Scooter or E-Bike in California

The penalties for a scooter or e-bike DUI are generally lighter than those for driving a car under the influence — but they can still carry serious consequences.

1. For Motorized Scooters (CVC 21221.5):

• Fine of up to $250
• The offense is typically treated as an infraction, not a misdemeanor
• No jail time, but it still counts as a DUI-related conviction on your record

2. For E-Bikes and Bicycles (CVC 21200.5):

• Fine of up to $250
• Also treated as an infraction, but can appear on your driving record
• For minors (under 21), a conviction can trigger a license suspension under California’s zero-tolerance policy

However, it’s important to note that if your scooter or e-bike is faster or more powerful than the state’s legal definitions. For example, some are modified to exceed 28 mph. Therefore, prosecutors may charge you under the standard DUI statute (23152). In that case, penalties could include:

• Up to 6 months in jail
• Fines up to $1,000
• License suspension
• DUI school and probation

So while scooter and e-bike DUIs are often treated less severely, the line between an “infraction” and a full DUI charge can be blurry — and heavily depends on the circumstances of your case.

How Law Enforcement Proves a DUI on a Scooter or E-Bike

Even though these vehicles are smaller and slower, law enforcement officers can — and often do — conduct sobriety checks on riders who appear impaired.

An officer may stop you for:

• Swerving or erratic riding
• Riding on sidewalks or against traffic
• Ignoring traffic signals
• Causing or nearly causing a collision

If the officer suspects impairment, they can administer a field sobriety test or breathalyzer. You may also be arrested, cited, or taken to a station for chemical testing.

Additional Consequences You Might Not Expect

Even though the fines are relatively small, a scooter or e-bike DUI can still have lasting consequences:

• It may show up on your driving record
• It can raise your insurance rates
• If you already have a DUI, it may impact probation or future cases
• For underage riders, it can delay driver’s license eligibility

In short, even a “minor” scooter DUI can have long-term effects that extend beyond the ticket itself.

Defenses to a Scooter or E-Bike DUI Charge

If you’ve been cited or arrested, a criminal defense attorney can often help reduce or dismiss the charge. Common defenses include:

• Lack of impairment: The officer’s observations or field tests may have been inaccurate.
• No lawful stop: The officer may not have had legal grounds to pull you over.
• Device not covered under statute: Your e-bike or scooter may not legally qualify as a “motorized vehicle.”
• Improper testing: Breath or blood tests may have been mishandled or unreliable.

Because California DUI law treats scooters and e-bikes differently from cars, having a defense attorney familiar with this can make a huge difference in your case.

Inland Empire Criminal Defense: Your #1 Defense Team

If you’ve been charged with a DUI on a scooter or e-bike in Riverside County, Los Angeles County, or anywhere in the Inland Empire, Inland Empire Criminal Defense is here to help.

Our firm, led by Attorney Adam Jackson, is 5-star reviewed and based in Rancho Cucamonga. We have a proven history of successfully defending clients against all types of DUI charges — from first-time offenses to complex vehicular cases.

Your first consultation is free, and we’ll walk you through your rights, options, and next steps.

Call us today at (909) 345-1613 to speak directly with a California DUI defense attorney.