Dorset Council is considering an e-scooter hire trial covering Dorchester, Weymouth, Portland and Chickerell, with a separate area around Upton and Corfe Mullen.
The proposal has been backed unanimously at committee stage and is now expected to go before Cabinet and full council later this year.
Supporters say the scheme could reduce short car journeys, cut emissions and improve access to work, education and public transport.
Councillors were told the hire scooters would be limited to 15mph, require riders to hold at least a provisional driving licence and use GPS technology to control where they can operate.
Concerns were raised about pavement riding, poor parking, collisions and the impact on pedestrians, including disabled people.
Dorset Police and Crime Commissioner David Sidwick has also urged caution, warning that safeguards must be in place before any trial goes ahead.
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