Neighborhood Electric Vehicle Fact Sheet

Neighborhood Electric Vehicle (NEV) & Low Speed Vehicle (LSV) Fact Sheet Summary

This fact sheet from the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation outlines rules for registering and operating Neighborhood Electric Vehicles (NEVs) in PA.

What is an NEV?

• Four-wheeled electric vehicle
• Speed: 20–25 mph max design speed
• Must meet federal safety standards (49 CFR 571.500)

Registration & Titling

• Titled and registered as a passenger vehicle
• Uses standard issue registration plate
• Body type “NEV” must be used on title — not for other low-speed vehicles
• Off-Road Vehicle (ORV) body type still applies to other low-speed vehicles

Required Equipment

An NEV operating on highways or roadways must have:

• Brakes adequate to control and stop the vehicle
• Odometer
• Speedometer
• Original manufacturer’s Vehicle Identification Number (VIN)
• Windshield wiper
• Horn
• Battery charge indicator

Additional Requirements

• Must carry financial responsibility (insurance)
• Must display a safety decal on rear: “25 MPH Vehicle” — at least 4 inches tall by 10 inches long
• Cannot operate on roads with posted speeds above 25 mph
• Not required to undergo safety or emissions inspections

Low Speed Vehicles (LSVs)

• Identified via proof of ownership documents
• Manufacturer’s Certificate of Origin may list LSV/NEV/ZEV or note compliance with FMVSS
• Do NOT meet PA equipment standards
• Cannot be titled or registered for use on PA roadways

Issued: April 2025
Pennsylvania Department of Transportation