In the UK, you are legally entitled to buy, sell and own an electric scooter.
However, it is currently illegal in the UK to use an electric scooter on public roads, pavements or cycle lanes. Electric scooters can only be legally used in the UK on private land with the permission of the landowner.
It is against the law to use a privately owned e-scooter.
If you use an e-scooter illegally:
you could face a fine
you could get penalty points on your licence
the e-scooter could be impounded
Are electric scooters legal in the UK?
Yes, electric scooters are legal to own in the UK. However, there are lots of restrictions surrounding where they can be used.
Where can electric scooters be used?
At the moment, electric scooters can only be used on private land. It is effectively illegal to use them on public roads, on pavements, in cycle lanes and in pedestrian-only areas.
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.
The trial period has been extended until the end of March 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.
SAFETY
Do you need to wear a helmet on an electric scooter?
Absolutely you should.!
An electric scooter – like any vehicle – can be dangerous, and the faster you go, the more risk there is of having an accident.
Most electric scooters go at least 15mph and some go much faster, so it’s imperative you wear a helmet to protect yourself if you fall off and hit your head.
However, a helmet isn’t the only safety gear you should consider when riding an electric scooter.
Knee pads are a good idea, as is reflective clothing, which will make you much more obvious to other road users in the dark or in low light. If your electric scooter doesn’t have its own LED headlights you should accessorise; just having reflectors or a rear light is not enough.
