An e-scooter trial is currently taking place in Armidale as part of a shared scheme.  As part of the trial, e-scooters hired from Armidale Regional Council's chosen provider, Beam will be allowed on selected roads, bike paths.

For the most up-to-date version of the operating map please refer to the Beam app.

Trial rules and tips for e-scooter riders

• You can only use e-scooters hired through Council’s chosen provider Beam on selected roads, shared paths, and bike paths in the trial area. Privately owned e-scooters are not allowed on NSW roads or road related areas (including in trial areas).
• The minimum age for use is 16 years old.
• Shared e-scooters can only be ridden on designated shared paths and roads. It is illegal to ride e-scooters on footpaths.
• Only one person is allowed to ride a shared e-scooter at any one time.
• You are limited to riding at 10km/h on shared paths and 20km/h on the road.
• On the designated shared paths, you must:
  • give way to pedestrians
  • keep left.
• You must wear an approved bicycle helmet at all times when riding an e-scooter.
• You must use the e-scooter lights when riding in darkness or hazardous weather conditions.
• A BAC limit of 0.05 applies when riding an e-scooter.If you are drinking, don’t ride an e-scooter.
• E-scooter riders are also subject to the same drug driving offences as motor vehicle drivers. You cannot have illicit drugs present in your system or ride while under the influence of alcohol or other drugs.
• If you are caught drink or drug riding, serious penalties apply and you may face consequences for your driver’s licence. Find out more on e-scooter offences that may apply.
• You do not need a driver’s licence to ride an e-scooter.
• Always wear brightly coloured clothing so other road users can see you easily.
• Please ride predictably and indicate clearly, so other people are aware of your intentions.
• Shared e-scooter scheme operators are required to have appropriate insurance cover for their devices. You may consider insurance for personal injury or property damage but this is not a trial requirement.

Tips for motorists:

• Keep an eye out for e-scooter riders at all times by regularly checking your mirrors and blind spots.
• Slow down when passing e-scooter riders.
• You must allow 1 metre of space when passing an e-scooter.  

Tips for bicycle riders:

• When overtaking e-scooters on roads or designated shared paths, please ensure it is safe to do so and leave enough space
• Keep an eye out for e-scooter riders when riding on roads and shared paths.  

Tips for pedestrians:

• Always keep an eye out for e-scooter riders on designated shared paths
• E-scooter riders are not allowed to ride on the footpath.  

For further general safety information visit the Transport for NSW E-scooter safety page.