New Rules for Electric Scooters: Banned on Roads With Speed Limits Over 50 km/h

Under amendments made to the 1974 Motor Vehicles and Road Traffic Regulations on July 17, 2026, rules governing the use of electric scooters on public roads have been updated.

The amendments also introduced the definition of “E-Moped” into the regulations, making it legal to use these vehicles on roads subject to certain conditions.

An E-Moped is defined as a two- or three-wheeled vehicle operated by electric power controlled by hand, with a maximum speed of 30 km/h, an electric motor of less than 351 watts and a rechargeable battery, fitted with wheels and a braking mechanism and designed to be ridden while seated.

E-Mopeds must have a headlight at the front capable of illuminating at least 20 metres with a white light, a red light at the rear and a sound device, horn or similar warning device. Some models may also be equipped with pedals.

Electric Scooter Definition Introduced

The amendments also introduced a separate definition for “Electric Scooter.”

Accordingly, electric scooters are defined as electric vehicles with a maximum speed of 30 km/h and a motor of less than 351 watts, equipped with a braking mechanism, a non-slip footboard, handlebars and a vertical steering mechanism.

These vehicles must have a white headlight at the front capable of illuminating at least 20 metres, a red light and reflector at the rear, as well as a horn, sound device or similar warning mechanism audible from at least 30 metres. Electric scooters must be ridden while standing.

30 km/h and 351-Watt Limits

Electric mopeds, motorcycles and motorised three-wheeled vehicles with motors exceeding 351 watts and capable of speeds above 30 km/h are required to be registered as motor vehicles.

Such vehicles must be operated with the relevant motor vehicle driving licences specified under the applicable legislation, namely vehicles requiring J, H1, H2 or H-class licences.

Rules for Electric Scooters and E-Mopeds

The amendments introduced the following rules for the use of electric scooters and E-Mopeds on public roads:

1. They may not be used by anyone under the age of 18.
2. They may not be used on intercity roads or roads with a maximum speed limit above 50 km/h.
3. Where a bicycle lane is available, the vehicles must be ridden on the bicycle lane. Where no bicycle lane exists, they may be ridden on the road, provided they travel on the left side without endangering traffic safety.
4. No passengers may be carried other than the rider.
5. No loads may be carried other than items that can be carried on the rider’s back. The weight of such items may not exceed 10 kilograms.
6. They may not be ridden side by side on roads used by motor vehicles.
7. They may not be ridden on pavements.
8. They may not be ridden while attached to or holding onto another vehicle.
9. The rider must keep both hands on the handlebars. Electric scooters may not be ridden with one hand.
10. They may not be ridden while performing acrobatic manoeuvres.
11. Helmets are compulsory when riding an E-Moped.

In a statement, the Police General Directorate said traffic inspections would continue concerning the use of electric scooters and E-Mopeds, as well as any circumstances that could pose a danger to other drivers and pedestrians using the roads.

The statement urged riders to comply with traffic regulations and called on them to contribute to preventing traffic accidents.