Everyone seems excited about the introduction of electric scooter, except that the latest means of transportation comes with a few burdens – especially the regulations. As people become more receptive towards technological advancement, the wherewithal to abide by the rules thereof must be available. However, the new regulations of the electric scooter are quite simple and straightforward, with different specifics for different regions around the world.

Electric Scooter Releases

A characteristic feature of the new regulations is the low probability for movement on sidewalks or pavements. Quite to the advantage of the rider, electric scooters are known for speeds as high as 25mph, which could put pedestrians at risk if anything goes wrong. 

At the time of writing this guide, we guarantee that all information has been crosschecked for clarity and conciseness. For the sake of precision, you may want to confirm with your local authorities to be clear about tiny details regarding electric scooters in your area.

Electric scooter regulation in North America

Determining the legality of electric scooters in the United States depends on a few factors, including your specific location. The norm is that certain cities are hesitant to legalize electric scooters, but New York seems poised about legalizing scooters with speed limit at 20mph. Although Los Angeles and Manhattan have taken similar turns at rejecting electric scooters, Canada’s regulations about scooters are determined by province. Meanwhile, British Columbia and Alberta support electric scooter owners that operate on pavements or privately owned lands. Cities such as Calgary and Quebec have implemented pilot programs during which electric scooters may be legalized. Still, the latter poses strict rules binding on driver’s age and compliance with training and equipment. A failure to abide by the laws, as stated, will attract hefty fines.

Germany tops the list of cities of Europe to legalize electric scooters

Unless you reside in the United Kingdom, electric scooters will become legal in most parts of Europe as the New Year draws closer. The Dutch, for instance, are enjoying the many perks of electric scooters because their regulations support it. Some of the conditions to ride the electric scooter in the Netherlands include:

• Authorization by the RDW
• The rider is at least 16 years of age
• The electric scooter is fitted with a plate to verify insurance 
• Ride scooters at a speed of 25mph and adhere strictly driving on the bike lanes

Before now, riding an electric scooter in Germany was a dream. Although it was forbidden to ride scooters on public roads, the recently released ‘electric scooter’ regulation in the country has tongues wagging in jubilation.

Buying a scooter in Germany

Amidst the exciting development, purchasing an electric scooter comes with its guidelines too. The German Federal Motor Transport Authority states that only scooters that have been approved by the Kraftfahrt Bundesamt are allowed on the streets. Similar to the Dutch policies, insurance stickers are mandatory on every scooter, and each one costs between £15 and £30 for a year. With the speed limit set at 12.4mph, it is a huge relief that you wouldn’t need a drivers’ license to own one as long as you are at least 14 years. Additionally, helmets are highly recommended but not mandatory in Germany.

Driving an electric scooter in Germany is very simple. In the absence of special bicycle side stripes or bicycle roads, a rider may use regular streets. However, avoid pedestrian and Autobahn streets when driving your electric scooter. 

Asian regulations

Without a registration, license, or turn signals, electric scooters are illegal in Japan except you ride on privately owned land. And when you violate traffic laws, you may end up with jail term or hefty fines. In India, electric scooters are legal if their maximum speed is 15.5mph, and motor power is below 250W. A general law on e-bikes in China suggests that owners must register the bikes to get licensed plates, apart from the weight and power guidelines involved. But the rule mentions nothing about electric scooters, which are notorious for accidents in Shanghai and similar cities.