law · powered wheelchair · 如何選擇輪椅 ·Jul 18, 2017

Electric wheelchair legal supervision and legislation

Many users have inquired about the legal regulations and laws for using electric wheelchairs and mobility scooters in Hong Kong - are they legal?

The use of electric wheelchairs in Hong Kong is legal if there is a medical certificate proving their necessity.

For related inquiries, please refer to the Hong Kong Government Transport Department's reply below.

"Electric mobility aids (including electric wheelchairs and electric mobility scooters for the disabled) are not considered motor vehicles. Individuals who require mobility aids may seek professional advice and information from rehabilitation medical professionals (e.g., community rehabilitation centers under the Hospital Authority)."

When a user has a medical certificate, an electric wheelchair is considered a personal medical mobility aid and does not fall under the category of motor vehicles. Therefore, users are not required to register or license them with the Transport Department. However, users must comply with traffic rules applicable to pedestrians and should not use electric wheelchairs on roads or cycle tracks.

Electric mobility aids Transport Department (electric wheelchairs and electric mobility scooters for the disabled)

They can also be used within MTR premises, but please use them carefully, avoid rapid movement, and ask staff for a ramp and assistance.

Electric Wheelchairs and Mobility Scooters for the Disabled

Recommendation: Hong Kong has partially regulated electric wheelchairs through various ordinances. However, the old regulations are outdated, and it is believed that legislation needs to be strengthened to regulate the use of electric wheelchairs in Hong Kong -
1) Safety level and speed limit: Electric wheelchairs must meet national standards or international 7176 medical device standards to be used in Hong Kong.
2) Users: Must be trained, including understanding the operation of electric wheelchairs and knowing their applicable range.
3) Medical certificate: Users must not only hold a medical certificate for mobility impairment but also prove normal cognitive function.
4) Suppliers must be registered and undergo annual audits.
5) Penalties and education for using electric wheelchairs on non-pedestrian paths should be strengthened.

If you want to understand all at once: "Regulations for electric wheelchairs in Hong Kong and their use on buses, MTR, high-speed rail, and airplanes":

Please refer to our latest compilation: "2026 Hong Kong Electric Wheelchair Law and Safe Use Guide".