What are the laws about e-scooters?
It is not illegal to buy an electric scooter in the UK but it is illegal to ride it on public roads, pavements or cycle lanes.
It is an offence to ride a privately-owned e-scooter in a public place and can result in a fine, points on your driving licence and your e-scooter could be impounded.
Currently, the only place you can ride a privately-owned e-scooter legally is on private land and with the landowner’s permission.
However, there are government-approved trials in many towns and cities where you can rent an e-scooter and ride it on the public roads legally. gov.uk/guidance/e-scooters-trials-guidance-for-users
Why can’t you use privately-owned e-scooters on public roads?
The same laws apply to e-scooters as also apply to cars as set out in the Road Traffic Act 1988.
Rental e-scooters that are part of a government-approved trial are legal on roads in the UK as special regulations have been drawn up that make them exempt from the requirements of the Road Traffic Act 1988.
Do e-scooters need to be insured?
E-scooters that are part of a government trial must have motor insurance. This will be provided by the operator of the e-scooter rental scheme.
Do you have to wear a helmet while riding an e-scooter?
Helmets are not a legal requirement but they are recommended.
Do you need a driving licence for an e-scooter?
To use an e-scooter in a public place you must have the category Q entitlement on your driving licence. If you have a provisional licence or a full licence for categories AM, A or B this will include an entitlement for category Q.
Are L plates needed for an e-scooter?
Should you have a provisional driving licence, it is not necessary to display L plates when using an e-scooter.
Can trial e-scooters be used on pavements?
E-scooters that are part of a government trial may be used on roads (except motorways) and in cycle lanes but you must not use an e-scooter on pavements.
Basic safety rules when using a trial e-scooter
· Only to be used by one person at a time.
· You should not use an e-scooter while drunk or otherwise intoxicated. You can be prosecuted under drink/drug driving laws.
· Mobile phones must not be used when riding an e-scooter.
· Any screen displaying navigation information must be set up before starting off.
· You are not permitted to tow anything using an e-scooter.
· Never hang bags from the handlebars.
How To Purchase E-Scooter Signs
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