New regulations aim to curb misuse of personal mobility aids while ensuring accessibility for genuine users.
From the first quarter of 2026, Singapore will introduce stricter regulations for personal mobility aid (PMA) users, including mandatory medical certification and a lower speed limit of 6kmh. Announced by Senior Parliamentary Secretary for Transport Baey Yam Keng on March 5, 2025, these changes follow concerns over the misuse of mobility scooters by able-bodied individuals. The new rules will ensure that only those with certified medical conditions can use PMAs while enhancing safety for all path users.
As PMAs become increasingly popular, reports of misuse, speeding, and oversized mobility devices have raised public safety concerns. The government is introducing these regulations to balance accessibility for users with medical needs while ensuring pedestrian pathways remain safe for all.
Mandatory Medical Certification for PMA Users
Under the new regulations, only individuals with certified medical conditions affecting mobility will be allowed to use motorized PMAs, including mobility scooters.
Starting from the fourth quarter of 2025, Singapore will implement the Assessment for Mobility Scooter (AMS), a test designed to medically certify PMA users. Those who previously received subsidized mobility scooters under the Seniors’ Mobility and Enabling Fund (SMF) or the Assistive Technology Fund (ATF) will be automatically certified.
For others, a doctor’s medical assessment will be required before purchasing a PMA. However, Senior Parliamentary Secretary Baey Yam Keng urged individuals not to seek certification yet, as further details will be released in Q3 2025.
Speed Limits and Size Restrictions
To improve safety, the government is reducing the speed limit for PMAs on public paths from 10kmh to 6kmh—the equivalent of a brisk walking pace.
Mr. Baey emphasized that this lower speed limit aligns with PMAs’ intended purpose of assisting individuals with walking difficulties. The rule will be gradually enforced, and users of existing PMAs capable of speeds up to 10kmh may continue using them until the end of 2028, provided they do not exceed the new speed limit.
Additionally, PMAs used on public paths must comply with size restrictions, mirroring those for public transport. The maximum allowable dimensions are:
- Length: 120cm
- Width: 70cm
- Height: 150cm
- Weight (laden): 300kg
Retailers will be prohibited from displaying, advertising, or selling PMAs exceeding these size and speed limits. Individuals who medically require larger PMAs may apply for an exemption.
Addressing Public Concerns Over PMA Misuse
Singapore’s decision to implement stricter PMA regulations follows rising concerns over able-bodied individuals misusing mobility aids. Reports of speeding and oversized PMAs posing risks to pedestrians, children, and seniors have fueled public anxiety.
Mr. Baey highlighted that while these rules aim to improve safety, they also ensure that individuals who genuinely need PMAs can continue using them without discrimination. The Ministry of Transport (MOT) will focus on public education efforts to raise awareness about responsible PMA use.
Transition Period and Public Education Efforts
The exact enforcement timeline depends on parliamentary approval of legislative amendments later this year. Authorities have promised a gradual transition period to allow PMA users and retailers to adjust to the new requirements.
During this transition, enforcement officers will focus on educating users rather than immediately issuing penalties. Retailers will also be required to align their sales practices with the new regulations.
Singapore’s transport authorities have urged all users to follow the rules, promoting a culture of shared path safety and responsible mobility aid use.
Singapore’s new PMA regulations mark a significant shift in mobility aid policies, ensuring only individuals with certified medical needs can use mobility scooters while maintaining safe public spaces. The 6kmh speed limit and size restrictions aim to curb misuse and enhance pedestrian safety.
For Singaporeans and international visitors, these changes highlight the government’s proactive approach to balancing accessibility with public safety. As PMA enforcement intensifies, users and retailers must prepare for stricter compliance measures in the coming years.
Sources: Must Share News (2025), CNA (2025)
Keywords: Singapore, PMA Regulations, Transport Policy, Mobility Scooters, Public Safety
