As summer begins, the Ministère des Transports et de la Mobilité durable (MTMD) has issued a reminder that helmets are mandatory for all users of motorized personal transportation devices (MPTDs) such as electric scooters, in accordance with provincial safety regulations.
Key rules to know:
- Helmet required: All MPTD users must wear an approved safety helmet.
- Minimum age: Riders must be at least 14 years old.
- Traffic rules: MPTD users must follow the same rules as cyclists, and may not carry passengers.
- Where to ride: These devices are only permitted on roads with speed limits of 50 km/h or less and on designated bike paths, unless signage states otherwise.
- Technical specs: Each MPTD must be equipped with one brake per wheel and must be electronically limited to a top speed of 25 km/h.
MPTDs are defined as electric motorized vehicles with at least one wheel and no enclosed cabin including electric scooters and self-balancing devices like gyropods.
A pilot project launched in July 2023 governs the use of MPTDs on bike lanes and certain public roads, aiming to assess how well they integrate into the transportation network. Between July 2023 and February 2025, the Montreal police issued 1,045 citations related to MPTD use, including:
- 638 tickets (61%) for riding without a helmet
- 136 tickets (13%) for running a red light
- 53 tickets (5%) for riding on sidewalks
To reinforce compliance, the MTMD also announced the upcoming launch of a helmet awareness campaign targeting Gatineau, Montreal, and Quebec City. The initiative is part of the province’s 2023–2028 Road Safety Action Plan, aimed at reducing accidents and promoting safe road-sharing practices among all users.
