E-Scooter Rules in Slovenia 2026: The Complete Guide to Safe Riding
Last updated: January 2025 | Reading time: 7 min
Electric scooters have flooded Slovenian streets in recent years, from Ljubljana's Slovenska cesta to coastal promenades. But what began as the "wild west" of micromobility is now a strictly regulated area. The year 2026 brings established rules defined by the Road Traffic Rules Act (ZPrCP), as well as newer European directives on insurance that may affect you.
In this guide, we've compiled everything you need to know to avoid hefty fines (up to €500) and ensure your safety and the safety of other road users.
1. What is a "Light Motor Vehicle"?
To understand the rules, we must first understand the definition. In the eyes of the law, your e-scooter is not a toy but a light motor vehicle. For your scooter to be legal to ride without registration, it must meet the following conditions (ZPrCP, 2021):
📋 Technical Conditions for Legality:
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Maximum Speed: Structurally limited to a maximum of 25 km/h.
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Width: The vehicle must not be wider than 80 cm.
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Propulsion: Exclusively electric.
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Equipment: Mandatory front (white) and rear (red) lights, and reflectors (Slovenian Traffic Safety Agency, 2024).
⚠️ Warning about Modifications: If your scooter can exceed 25 km/h at the push of a button or via an app, it is considered an unregistered moped. The police are authorized to seize such a vehicle, and you will face a fine of €500.
2. Where Are You Allowed to Ride? (Hierarchy of Surfaces)
Slovenia has a strictly defined hierarchy of surfaces where riding is permitted. Riding on the sidewalk, where pedestrians walk, is prohibited, unless specifically marked otherwise.
3. Age Restrictions and Helmets
E-scooters are not suitable for young children. The legislation sets clear limits:
- Minimum age: 14 years.
- Exception (12–14 years): Children in this age group may ride an e-scooter only if they have a cycling license (proof of passing the cycling exam).
- Helmet: Mandatory for all riders up to the age of 18. For adults, it is recommended but not legally required (Police, 2024).
4. New Development: Insurance and Heavier E-Scooters
The European Union has introduced a motor vehicle directive that also affects more powerful e-scooters. Although most standard city scooters (e.g., Xiaomi, Ninebot up to 25 km/h) do not require mandatory insurance, be aware:
If your e-scooter exceeds a weight of 25 kg and a speed of 14 km/h, or if it exceeds a speed of 25 km/h (which is prohibited on public roads anyway), it may be subject to mandatory third-party liability insurance (AMZS, 2024).
Tip: Even if the law does not require insurance for your light scooter, experts recommend obtaining personal liability insurance, as a collision with a pedestrian can lead to high compensation claims.
5. Most Common Fines (Price List 2025)
Disregarding the rules can cost you dearly. Below are the current fines according to the ZPrCP:
Use of devices that reduce auditory/visual perception is prohibited.
+ possibility of vehicle seizure.
The same rules as for car drivers apply.
E.g., riding on the sidewalk.
Conclusion
Riding an e-scooter in Slovenia is an excellent mode of mobility, as long as you play by the rules. Remember the golden trio: a maximum of 25 km/h, always on the bike lane, and keep your phone in your pocket. By doing so, you will not only save money but also ensure that this form of transport remains safe and acceptable for everyone.
Sources and Literature (APA)
- Slovenian Traffic Safety Agency (AVP). (2024). E-scooters: Rules and safety. Retrieved from avp-rs.si
- AMZS. (2024). New rules for e-bikes and e-scooters: When is insurance required? Retrieved from amzs.si
- Police. (2024). Safely with an e-scooter: Rules and tips. Retrieved from policija.si
- Official Gazette of the Republic of Slovenia. (2021). Road Traffic Rules Act (ZPrCP). Official Gazette of the RS, No. 82/13 with amendments. Retrieved from pisrs.si
