Frequently asked questions
Are electric scooters legal in the UK?
Yes, electric scooters are legal to own in the UK. However, there are restrictions surrounding where they can be used.
Where can electric scooters be used?
Currently, electric scooters can only be used on private land and with the owner’s consent. As of May 2022 it is effectively illegal to use them on public roads, on pavements, in cycle lanes and in pedestrian-only areas.
Do I need a driving license to use an electric scooter?
You must have the category Q entitlement on your driving licence to use an e-scooter. A full or provisional UK licence for categories AM, A or B includes entitlement for category Q. If you have one of these licences, you can use an e-scooter.
If you have a provisional licence, you do not need to show L plates when using an e-scooter.
Do I need to wear protective clothing when using an electric scooter?
You should wear a cycle helmet when using an e-scooter. Helmets are recommended but are not a legal requirement.
Make sure that your cycle helmet conforms to current regulations, is the correct size and is securely fastened.
Wear light-coloured or fluorescent clothing so that other road users can see you in daylight, poor light and in the dark.
Do I need to register my electronic scooter or pay vehicle excise duty?
Electronic scooters do not need to be registered, display registration plates or pay vehicle excise duty.
Why are electric scooters currently illegal on roads and pavements?
Electric scooters are currently classed as ‘powered transporters’ by the government and fall under the same laws and regulations that apply to all motor vehicles.
This means that it’s illegal to use them on pavements, in cycle lanes and in pedestrian-only areas, and it would only be legal to use them
on public roads if they could meet the same requirements as motor vehicles (e.g., in terms of insurance, tax, license, registration and vehicle construction), which in practice is virtually impossible.
The formulation of a law specifically covering electric scooters has been under discussion
for some time. It looks like there may be some developments in this area in the near future, particularly with the rental trials currently taking place.
When will electric scooters become legal on roads and pavements?
Electric scooter rental trials have been underway in a number of areas across the UK since summer 2020. Local councils have been working with rental providers to test the viability of electric scooters as a safe and effective source of public transport.
This trial period was extended until the end of March 2022 and again until November 2022 so that the most comprehensive evidence possible can be gathered. The government is then likely to launch another consultation phase before any official changes to the law are proposed.
Other safety guidelines for electric scooter use
- Electric scooters should be used by one person only at a time
- You must not tow anything using an electric scooter
- You must not use a mobile phone while using an electric scooter
- You may use a device to display navigation information but this must be set up prior to setting off
- Any bags or small items must be secured and not risk any danger to yourself or others, for example - do not hang anything from handlebars
- You may be prosecuted under drink or drug driving laws if riding an electric scooter while intoxicated. Dangerous driving offences also apply to electric scooters
