Before being banned on footpaths in 2019, Personal Mobility Devices (PMDs) such as e-scooters were popular across Singapore. However, the rapid adoption also brought safety concerns, following several serious accidents between PMD riders and pedestrians, some fatal. This marked a turning point in Singapore’s active mobility journey, curbing the once-booming PMD market.
Yet even as PMDs faded from the mainstream, another trend began to emerge: Personal Mobility Aids (PMAs) and their lookalikes. PMAs are designed for seniors and those with genuine mobility challenges. They remain permitted on footpaths and cycling paths. This has led to misuse by seemingly able-bodied users, as well as a PMA-lookalike devices. This has led to further regulations and restrictions imposed on PMAs and their usage.
For the rest of this article, unless otherwise stated, PMD refers to motorised personal mobility devices, such as e-scooters.
Device Requirements For PMDs In Singapore
| Maximum Weight | 20kg |
| Maximum Width | 70cm |
| Maximum Motorised Device Speed | 25km/h |
| Certifications | UL2272 Device Safety Standard |
New e-scooters must pass an inspection before being registered with LTA. Before purchasing an e-scooter, ensure it is registered with LTA and that the e-scooter’s ownership is transferred upon purchase.
Registered e-scooters must be inspected every 2 years to ensure that they remain compliant with LTA’s device criteria for use on public paths. E-scooters that do not pass inspection will be deregistered by LTA.
Registered e-scooters will have a unique registration number and an LTA-issued registration mark displayed on the e-scooter.
Individuals under 16 years old must not ride an e-scooter on cycling paths, unless they are supervised by an adult who is at least 21 years old.
From 1 January 2022, e-scooter riders are required to pass a mandatory theory test before they are able to ride on cycling paths. This is a 30-minute online test conducted by Singapore Polytechnic meant to ensure e-scooter riders are familiar with the active mobility rules, code of conduct, and safe riding practices. The test fee is $10.90 (including GST).
Device Requirements for PMAs in Singapore
| Maximum Weight (Laden) | 300kg (including rider) |
| Maximum Width | 70cm |
| Maximum Length | 120cm |
| Maximum Height | 150cm |
| Maximum Motorised Device Speed | 6km/h (on paths) (from 1 Jan 2026) |
To be classified as PMAs, also known as mobility scooters, devices must have three or more wheels and a footboard supported by the wheels. It must be steered by handlebars and has only one seat.
From 2026, it will be a requirement for mobility scooter users to obtain a certification of medical need before using their devices on public paths.
PMDs and PMAs Safety Standards
From 1 July 2025, LTA began the Pedestrian-Only Paths Initiative. This further restricts the use of active mobility devices, such as PMAs and non-motorised PMDs, on specific paths.
Source: LTA
Since 1 July 2020, all PMDs in Singapore are required to meet the UL2272 fire safety standard. This means that they have passed a stringent set of electrical, mechanical, and environmental tests, to ensure its safe use. The tests include the impact of environmental factors, such as exposure to water. These help to prevent the risk of fire, often due to overcharging, imbalanced charging or short circuits.
The UL2272 standard does not apply to PMAs.
Costs Of PMAs And PMDs
With the wide variety of PMAs available, costs can range from $729 to $5,000.
An example of a budget-friendly option is Mobot’s Prime A 2nd Gen model, which costs $1,399. A 37.5kg, 1.06m long PMA with four wheels, it can travel about 12-15 kilometres.
Source: Mobot
Higher-priced models tend to prioritise lightweight designs, more comfortable amenities such as swivel seats, and storage options that are convenient and easy to reach.
The Solax Genie Automatic Folding Mobility Scooter sold by elfigo (formerly known as Falcon Mobility) costs $2,999. At just 25kg, the 0.9m long PMA with four wheels can travel up to 15 kilometres on its standard battery. It folds automatically in seconds via remote control. It also comes with a travel battery with only enough power for half the distance but meets current airline requirements. Do note that the front wheels need to be upgraded to 7 inches for use on the MRT as the standard 6-inch wheels make it unsuitable.
Source: elfigo
Subsidies For The Elderly And Persons With Disabilities For Mobility Devices
There are two funds currently available which can help to defray the costs of PMAs, the Seniors’ Mobility and Enabling Fund (SMF) and the Assistive Technology Fund (ATF).
The SMF subsidises eligible seniors for the purchase of their first assistive devices, including PMAs.
| Applicant’s Monthly Per Capita Household Income (PCHI) | Subsidy Rate |
| Less than or equal to $1,200 | 90% |
| $1,201 – $2,000 | 75% |
These subsidies apply to both unmodified and modified/customised motorised wheelchairs, and scooters.
The ATF provides subsidies of up to 90% for persons with disabilities to purchase assistive technology devices that enable independent living. To qualify, they need to be a Singapore Citizen or Permanent Resident, have a permanent disability as determined and verified by a relevant registered Healthcare Professional, and have a monthly per capita household income (PCHI) of $2,600 or less. From January 2026, this PCHI requirement will be increased to $4,800. Applications for ATF can only be made through Public Hospitals and Social Service Agencies.
