E-Scooter Regulation in Europe: A Patchwork of Rules

Electric scooters have become part of the transport landscape across Europe, offering flexible and sustainable mobility for short journeys. Their rapid adoption, however, has led to varying approaches in legislation, insurance requirements, and safety rules.

Norway as a starting point

In Norway, electric scooters capable of speeds over 10 km/h and up to 20 km/h were brought under mandatory liability insurance in 2022 for rental fleets and in 2023 for privately owned scooters. Without insurance, users may be held personally liable for damages if involved in an accident.

Statistics from the first years of use showed thousands of accidents reported in Norwegian cities, including fatalities in 2022. The Road Traffic Act applies to riders, with fines and, in serious cases, imprisonment as possible sanctions. Children as young as 12 may use e-scooters, with helmets required only for those under 15.

A European comparison

Across Europe, rules vary significantly:

• Netherlands: Until recently, most e-scooters were not road-legal. From July 2025, approved models will require registration, license plates, and liability insurance. Riders must be at least 16 years old and hold a moped license.
• Germany: E-scooters have been legal since 2019 if limited to 20 km/h, fitted with lights, brakes, and reflectors, and displaying a mandatory insurance sticker. The minimum age is 14, and cycle paths must be used where available. Pavement riding is prohibited.
• France: Scooters are limited to 6 km/h on sidewalks and up to 25 km/h on cycle lanes. Helmets are compulsory for younger riders. Discussions are ongoing about requiring an A1 license for faster models.
• Belgium: Users must be at least 15 years old. Maximum speed is 25 km/h, with no insurance or protective gear required.
• Austria: Scooters are permitted from age 12, or earlier with a bike pass. Helmets are mandatory for children up to 12, and the maximum speed is 25 km/h.

Regional differences

These differences reflect not only legislation, but also variations in infrastructure, enforcement, and culture. For example, the Netherlands’ extensive cycling network integrates scooters into bike traffic, while in other countries scooters share space with cars or pedestrians. Enforcement also differs: Germany requires registration and visible insurance plates, while Belgium places fewer formal requirements on riders.

EU-wide context

The European Union’s Motor Insurance Directive, updated in January 2024, requires insurance for motor vehicles and certain light electric vehicles above defined speed or weight thresholds. This adds another layer of complexity, as member states apply the directive differently depending on how they classify scooters.

Outlook

What is clear is that regulations across Europe vary widely in terms of age limits, helmet use, insurance, training requirements, and permitted riding environments. As e-scooter use continues to grow, these disparities may lead to further discussions about harmonisation and the development of clearer frameworks.

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