x

This site uses cookies to improve your experience. By continuing to browse the site you are agreeing to our use of cookies

READ MORE >

Orderline 033 3320 1030    Open 8am - 8pm

Click to chat

  • My Account
  • Log In
  • Compare Products

FAQs

Skip to Content

Toggle Nav
Menu
Account
Bag
Search
  • free delivery
  • 28 Day Return
  • Unbeatable Prices
  • Complete Range
  • Expert Advice
  1. Blog
  2. Innovation and Technology
  3. Electric scooters and the law UK

Electric scooters and the law UK POSTED ON 21/07/2019

The UK law and electric scooters
The growing popularity in electric scooters, coupled with the increasing demand on the government to seek alternative modes of transport that are greener, cleaner, and cheaper, mean the future for adult electric scooting looks bright.  Electric scooting and scooter sharing is becoming big business globally, with the likes of Lime rolling out schemes in ten countries including the US, Germany, New Zealand, France, Spain and Canada.

There’s pressure on the UK to keep pace but despite electric scooters being around for some time, there’s still consumer uncertainty about where electric scooters can be legally ridden and the UK law is at best, confusing.

With this in mind, we take a closer look at the current legalities around adult electric scooter usage in the UK by answering some of the common questions.

Commonly asked questions about adult electric scooters

Are adult electric scooters legal in the UK?

The adult electric scooter is powered partly by a battery motor and is therefore classified as Personal Light Electric Vehicle (PLEV) by the Department for Transport (DfT), making it illegal to use on UK roads and pavements. However, it is legal to use them on private land and property.

It is worth noting though that pressure is mounting for the government to review its out-dated Highways Act of 1835 as it seeks alternative greener, cleaner and cheaper modes of transport. Worryingly, without change, the current act could stifle innovation in this area.

With countries such as France, Germany, Austria and Switzerland positively supporting electric scooter usage, let’s hope the UK will be able to take a ‘steer’ from these countries.

In the meantime, our advice is to observe some good common sense such as ensuring you are not going too fast, that you have good control on your scooter, are wearing a helmet and have working lights (link to accessories range).

Can adult electric scooters be used on the road?

No, an electric scooter cannot be ridden on the road for a couple of reasons. The DVLA requires electric vehicles to be registered and taxed in order to use the road. However, because the adult electric scooter falls within the PLEV category (Personal Light Electric Vehicle) its power and low maximum speed mean it cannot be used on public roads in the UK. This rule also extends to pavements too.  However, the electric scooter can be used on private land, such as your home or off-road space.

electric scooters and the law uk

Can you ride electric scooters on footpaths?

Under the Highway Act, electric scooters are not allowed to be used on a footpath unless needing to do so in order to park.

Do you need a licence for adult electric scooters?

No, you are not required to have a driver’s licence or learners permit in order to use an electric scooter because it cannot be used on roads.

Do I need to register or tax an adult electric scooter?

No, you do not need to register an electric scooter and it is tax exempt because it cannot be used on roads.

Do I need to insure an adult electric scooter?

No, insurance is not required to ride an electric scooter.

Further reading

Want to find out more?

Electric scooters for adults and kids – are they legal?

Best electric scooter for adults

  • < PREVIOUS POST
  • NEXT POST >
  • Facebook
  • Google Plus
  • Youtube
  • Pinterest
  • Instagram
  • Twitter

View Comments

Blog categories

  • Clean air for all
  • Electric Scooters & Micro Mobility
  • Play for Life
  • Product Videos
  • Product Launches
  • Anna & Philippa's story
  • Scooting Adventures
  • Which scooter?
  • Charity Schemes
  • Micro Ambassadors
  • Why Scoot
  • Spares & Repairs
  • Latest News
  • Childrens Scooting
  • Adult Scooting
  • Buyers Guides
  • Innovation and Technology
  • Leave Late, Arrive Early
  • Discover and Explore
  • Health & Wellbeing
  • News

Most recent posts

  • Mimisbowl & Micro Moments
  • Win a stay at Aller Farm
  • 2 Wheels? 3 Wheels? Stunt Scooters? Find Out The Differences Between Our Scooters
  • 5 things to consider when buying a second hand Micro scooter
  • Everything you need to know about scooter helmets
  • REGISTER FOR PRESS NEWS
  • BEST SELLING SCOOTERS & ACCESSORIES OF 2019
  • Who is leading the clean air movement?
  • Why and how electric scooters should be legalised in the UK
  • Electric scooters and the law UK

SPREAD THE WORD

  • Facebook
  • Google Plus
  • Pinterest
  • Instagram
  • Twitter

Sign Up

Love hearing about our exclusive
offers and latest news? Sign up for our
newsletters below.

Facebook InstagramYouTubetwitter

Sign up for exclusive offers and latest news.

Newsletter

Mother & BabyMumsnet Best 2019Toy Awards 2019Toy Fair 2017Junior Design 2019IndyBest Buy 2017

  • QUESTIONS

    • Klarna Payments FAQs
    • Delivery
    • Returns
    • Contact Us
    • How to Maintain your Scooter
    • Why Micro?
    • Scooter Guides
    • Frequently Asked Questions
    • 28 Day Return
  • HERE TO HELP

    • Micro Experts
    • Gift Wrapping
    • Gift Vouchers
    • Services Centres
    • How To Guides
    • Register Your Scooter
    • Buy With Confidence
    • Customer Reviews
    • Try Before You Buy
  • MORE ABOUT MICRO

    • Explore Our Blog
    • Press Centre
    • Legal Information
    • About Micro Scooters
    • Unsubscribe
  • GET INVOLVED

    • Scooters for Schools
    • Scoot Safe
    • Scooter Aid
    • Play for Life
    • Micro Reuse
Payment Methods
UK
£ GBP
Ireland
€ Euro
Copyright © 2017 Micro Scooters Ltd.