Learner's licence needed to keep pedalling under new Queensland laws
From August 31, riders will need to be at least 16 and hold a driver’s licence to ride an e-bike or e-scooter solo in Queensland as the new stage of the state’s laws cracking down on e-devices rolls out.
Starting August 31, Queensland riders will need a driver's licence or learner's licence to ride e-bikes or e-scooters alone. Those unable to drive due to a medical condition or disability can apply for an exemption, with a three-month grace period until November 29. Children aged 12-17 can ride under parental supervision. Police have the power to seize and destroy illegal devices, perform breath tests, and fine parents when children under 16 ride illegally.
Devices faster than 25km/h are banned, and riders are limited to 12km/h on footpaths. The legislation was amended to include exemptions after community backlash. Queensland Advocacy Incorporated chief executive Matilda Alexander welcomed the move but expressed concerns for people with disabilities who already face administrative burdens.
The Australian Medical Association Queensland (AMAQ) President Associate Professor Erica Gannon opposed the licensing requirement, citing the primary concern for children's safety. A 13-year-old e-scooter crash victim's death prompted the AMAQ's reiteration of the call for a blanket ban on under 16s riding e-scooters. Queensland's new age and licensing requirements aim to improve safety by ensuring riders have basic road rule knowledge and maturity to use devices safely.
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