Electric Scooter and Electric Bike Regulations Across EU Countries (2025 Update)

Electric scooters and electric bikes (e-bikes) have become popular across Europe, but laws differ in each country. It’s important for riders to know the local rules – from speed limits and power restrictions to helmet requirements and where you’re allowed to ride. Below we provide an updated 2025 overview of regulations in all EU countries, presented in a handy table and followed by country-by-country summaries. This guide focuses on typical privately-owned standing e-scooters and standard pedal-assist e-bikes (up to 25 km/h, 250 W). (Note: Higher-speed e-bikes or other motorized vehicles may be subject to additional licensing, insurance, or equipment requirements not fully detailed here.)

Always remember that city authorities may have extra rules (especially for e-scooters), so use this as a general guide and double-check any local variations. Ride safely and respectfully wherever you go!

EU Rules at a Glance

Country	Vehicle Type	Max Speed (km/h)	Max Motor Power (W)	Safety Requirements
Austria	Electric Scooter	25	600	Helmet required under 12; no insurance needed
Austria	Electric Bike	25	250	Helmet required under 12; treated as bicycle (no insurance/license)
Belgium	Electric Scooter	25	N/A	Min age 16; helmet not required (recommended); no insurance needed
Belgium	Electric Bike	25	250	No helmet requirement; considered a bicycle (no insurance/license)
Bulgaria	Electric Scooter	25	N/A	Helmet required under 18; no insurance needed
Bulgaria	Electric Bike	25	250	Helmet required under 18 on public roads
Croatia	Electric Scooter	25	600	Helmet mandatory for all; no insurance required
Croatia	Electric Bike	25	250	Helmet required under 16; otherwise treated as bicycle
Cyprus	Electric Scooter	20	N/A	Helmet mandatory for all riders
Cyprus	Electric Bike	25	250	Helmet mandatory for all cyclists
Czech Republic	Electric Scooter	25	250	Helmet required under 18; no insurance required
Czech Republic	Electric Bike	25	250	Helmet required under 18; no license/insurance needed
Denmark	Electric Scooter	20	N/A	Helmet mandatory for all riders; no insurance required
Denmark	Electric Bike	25	250	No helmet requirement (recommended); no license/insurance needed
Estonia	Electric Scooter	25	1000	Helmet required under 16; adults recommended; no insurance
Estonia	Electric Bike	25	250	Helmet required under 16 for cyclists
Finland	Electric Scooter	25	1000	Helmet not compulsory (recommended); no insurance required
Finland	Electric Bike	25	250	Helmet not mandatory (legally recommended)
France	Electric Scooter	25	N/A	Helmet not required (recommended); insurance required
France	Electric Bike	25	250	Helmet required for under 12; no insurance/license for standard e-bikes
Germany	Electric Scooter	20	500	Helmet not required; insurance & registration plate required
Germany	Electric Bike	25	250	No helmet requirement; e-bikes 25km/h treated as bicycles (no reg/insurance)
Greece	Electric Scooter	25	N/A	Helmet mandatory for all riders
Greece	Electric Bike	25	250	No helmet requirement for standard bicycles/e-bikes
Hungary	Electric Scooter	N/A	N/A	Not specifically regulated (law pending)
Hungary	Electric Bike	25	250	No helmet requirement; treated as normal bicycle
Ireland	Electric Scooter	20	400	Helmet not required; no insurance; min age 16
Ireland	Electric Bike	25	250	No helmet requirement; treated as bicycle (no reg/license)
Italy	Electric Scooter	20	N/A	Helmet mandatory for all; insurance & license plate required
Italy	Electric Bike	25	250	No helmet requirement (recommended); standard e-bikes treated as bicycles
Latvia	Electric Scooter	25	1000	Helmet not required (recommended); min age 14 (license required under 18)
Latvia	Electric Bike	25	250	Helmet required under 12 for cycling
Lithuania	Electric Scooter	20	1000	Helmet required under 18 (and for adults on road)
Lithuania	Electric Bike	25	250	Helmet required under 18 for cyclists
Luxembourg	Electric Scooter	25	250	Helmet not required (recommended); no insurance needed
Luxembourg	Electric Bike	25	250	No helmet requirement; treated as bicycle
Malta	Electric Scooter	20	N/A	Helmet not required (strongly recommended); registration & insurance required; min age 16
Malta	Electric Bike	25	250	No general helmet requirement; e-bikes treated as bicycles
Netherlands	Electric Scooter	25	N/A	Helmet mandatory; type approval & insurance required
Netherlands	Electric Bike	25	250	No helmet requirement; standard e-bikes treated as bicycles
Poland	Electric Scooter	20	N/A	Helmet not required (recommended); license needed if under 18
Poland	Electric Bike	25	250	No helmet requirement; standard e-bikes treated as bicycles
Portugal	Electric Scooter	25	N/A	Helmet not required (recommended); no insurance needed
Portugal	Electric Bike	25	250	No helmet requirement; e-bikes as bicycles (no reg/license)
Romania	Electric Scooter	25	500	Helmet required under 16; no insurance needed
Romania	Electric Bike	25	250	No helmet requirement (helmet recommended)
Slovakia	Electric Scooter	25	N/A	Helmet not mandatory (recommended; under 15 advised)
Slovakia	Electric Bike	25	250	Helmet required under 15 (no fines) for cyclists
Slovenia	Electric Scooter	25	250	Helmet required under 18
Slovenia	Electric Bike	25	250	Helmet required under 15 for cyclists
Spain	Electric Scooter	25	N/A	Helmet rules vary by city (e.g. required in Barcelona); no national insurance requirement
Spain	Electric Bike	25	250	Helmet required under 16 (and for adults outside cities); e-bikes treated as bicycles
Sweden	Electric Scooter	20	250	Helmet required under 15; no insurance required
Sweden	Electric Bike	25	250	Helmet required under 15 for cyclists; standard rules for e-bikes

Country-by-Country Regulation Summaries

Austria

In Austria, electric scooters are legally treated similar to bicycles. They can have a top speed of 25 km/h and a motor up to 600 W. The minimum riding age is 12 (younger riders 9–11 may ride under supervision or with a special “bike pass”). Helmets are mandatory for children under 12 years old. E-scooter riders must use bicycle lanes where available and are not allowed on pavements. No license or insurance is required for private e-scooters.

Standard electric bikes in Austria (pedal-assist up to 25 km/h and 250 W) are considered bicycles. They do not require registration, insurance, or a driving license. As with regular bicycles, riders under 12 must wear a helmet when cycling. Older e-bike riders are not legally required to wear a helmet, though it’s encouraged for safety.

Belgium

In Belgium, e-scooters are allowed on public roads up to 25 km/h. Riders must be at least 16 years old. There is no mandatory helmet law for e-scooter use (helmets are strongly recommended), and no insurance is required for private use. E-scooters should stick to bike paths or the right side of the road and cannot be used on sidewalks. Major cities like Brussels have designated parking zones and may enforce additional rules (e.g. lower speed limits or fines for improper parking).

Belgium classifies electric bikes into categories. A standard pedelec (max 25 km/h, 250 W assist) is treated as a normal bicycle – no license, insurance, or helmet required by law. More powerful e-bikes (so-called “motorized bikes” up to 1000 W) or speed pedelecs (up to 45 km/h) fall under moped regulations (requiring registration, a helmet, and a minimum age of 16), but a typical e-bike customer will be using the standard 25 km/h model with no special requirements beyond normal bike rules.

Bulgaria

Bulgaria permits electric scooters on roads with a speed limit up to 50 km/h, with a maximum e-scooter speed of 25 km/h. The minimum age for e-scooter riders is 14, and those under 18 are required to wear a helmet. Riding on sidewalks or motorways is prohibited. No insurance or registration is needed for e-scooters. Some cities in Bulgaria might impose additional restrictions or designate specific zones for e-scooter use, so riders should pay attention to local signs.

Electric bikes in Bulgaria are treated as bicycles if they meet the EU standard (up to 25 km/h assist, 250 W). There is no license or insurance requirement. Like on e-scooters, cyclists under 18 must wear a helmet when riding on public roads. At night or when visibility is poor, cyclists are expected to use lights and reflective gear for safety.

Croatia

Croatia introduced specific e-scooter regulations in 2022. E-scooters can operate up to 25 km/h and 600 W, and riders must be at least 14 years old. Helmets are mandatory for all e-scooter riders regardless of age. E-scooters should use bike paths when available; otherwise they may ride on roads with speed limits up to 50 km/h, keeping to the right. Riding on highways or expressways is forbidden, and sidewalks are only allowed at walking speed (6 km/h) where explicitly permitted. No insurance or registration is required for personal e-scooters.

In Croatia, standard e-bikes (25 km/h, 250 W) are considered bicycles. Cyclists under 16 years old are required by law to wear a helmet when riding on the road. There are no licensing or insurance needs for e-bikes meeting the standard definition. E-bikes must follow the same road rules as regular bikes, including using bike lanes and lights at night, and riders should wear reflective clothing in low visibility conditions.

Cyprus

Cyprus caps e-scooter speed at 20 km/h and requires riders to be at least 14 years of age. Helmets are mandatory for all e-scooter riders. E-scooters are allowed on bicycle lanes and on roads with speed limits up to 30 km/h, but they cannot be used on sidewalks or areas designated for pedestrians. Riding an e-scooter at walking pace (up to 10 km/h) is allowed in certain pedestrian zones if local signage permits it. No insurance or license is needed for private e-scooters.

For electric bicycles, Cyprus introduced a universal helmet law in 2022 – all cyclists (regardless of age) must wear a bicycle helmet when riding. Standard e-bikes (up to 25 km/h, 250 W) do not require any license or registration and are treated the same as conventional bikes in terms of road use. E-bikes should stick to bike lanes or the road where appropriate and are not allowed on highways. It’s advisable to use lights and reflective gear when cycling, especially after dark, as per general cycling safety rules.

Czech Republic

The Czech Republic classifies electric scooters under similar rules as bicycles. E-scooters may be used by riders 15 or older (younger riders can use them in non-traffic areas or under supervision). The maximum design speed is 25 km/h and motors are limited to 250 W (if a scooter has been retrofitted with a more powerful motor up to 1000 W, it still must not go over 25 km/h). Helmet use is required for anyone under 18 years old riding an e-scooter, while adults are not obliged to wear one (but it’s recommended). E-scooter riders should use cycling paths; if none are available, they may ride on roads in built-up areas (keeping to roads with lower speed limits). Sidewalk riding is not allowed. No insurance or registration is needed for standard e-scooters.

Electric bikes in the Czech Republic follow the EU standard – pedelecs up to 25 km/h and 250 W are considered bicycles. No license or insurance is required to ride one. Cyclists under 18 must wear a helmet by law when cycling on public roads. Riders are expected to adhere to normal bicycle traffic laws, meaning use bike lanes where possible and equip the bike with lights and reflectors for night riding. E-bikes that exceed the standard (higher speed or power) would be treated as mopeds and require registration and a driving license.

Denmark

Denmark permits electric scooters (locally called “small motorized vehicles”) with a top speed of 20 km/h. The minimum age to ride is 15 (younger children may ride under adult supervision). As of January 2022, Denmark requires all e-scooter riders to wear a bicycle helmet. E-scooters should use bike lanes and comply with cycling traffic rules; they are not allowed on sidewalks or pedestrian streets. Scooters must have lights (front white and rear red) turned on at all times (day and night) and reflectors on the sides. There is no mandatory insurance for privately owned e-scooters in Denmark, and no registration is needed.

Electric bikes in Denmark are very common and are treated as regular bicycles if they meet the usual criteria (assist up to 25 km/h, 250 W). There is no mandatory helmet law for bicycles/e-bikes (helmet use is encouraged but not legally required for adults). No license or insurance is required for standard e-bikes. Denmark’s cycling infrastructure is extensive, and e-bike riders should use bike lanes and follow general cycling rules and etiquette. Faster e-bikes (speed pedelecs) are classified as mopeds and subject to separate rules (including helmet, registration, and insurance) which are beyond the scope of standard e-bikes.

Estonia

Estonia allows electric scooters with speeds up to 25 km/h and motors up to 1000 W on public roads. There is no general minimum age to ride, but riders under 16 must wear a helmet by law (adults are not required to, but helmet use is recommended). Children under 8 are not allowed to ride e-scooters in traffic at all. E-scooters in Estonia can use bike paths and even sidewalks (at walking speed, yielding to pedestrians) where available; if there is no bike path, they may ride on the road in urban areas. Parking an e-scooter on a sidewalk is allowed if at least 1.5 m of space is left for pedestrians. No insurance or registration is required for e-scooters.

Electric bikes in Estonia are treated the same as bicycles as long as they meet the EU pedelec definition (25 km/h, 250 W). There is a helmet law requiring cyclists under 16 to wear a helmet, whereas adults are free to choose (though wearing a helmet is recommended for everyone). No license or insurance is needed for a standard e-bike. Riders should use cycling infrastructure where possible and ensure their e-bike has the required equipment (lights, reflectors, bell) when riding on public roads.

Finland

Finland treats e-scooters as “light electric vehicles.” They are allowed a maximum speed of 25 km/h (devices capable of more are not street-legal). There is currently no set minimum age by law, but many rental companies require riders to be 18. Uniquely, Finland does not have a strict helmet mandate for e-scooters or bicycles – wearing a helmet is officially recommended for all cyclists and e-scooter riders, but there are no fines for not wearing one. E-scooters should use bike lanes or the roadway if no bike lane is present, and they cannot be ridden on sidewalks (except children under 12 may ride on sidewalks at up to 15 km/h). There is no compulsory insurance for e-scooters as long as they meet the defined light vehicle criteria.

Standard e-bikes in Finland (25 km/h, 250 W) are considered bicycles. No registration or insurance is required. By law, cyclists “should” wear a helmet, but again it is not enforced by fines – it’s left to personal responsibility (most locals treat it as a recommendation). E-bike riders must follow bicycle traffic rules, using bike paths and proper lighting at night. More powerful e-bikes (over 250 W or that can go faster than 25 km/h under motor power) would fall into the moped category and have additional requirements (including registration and helmet).

France

France regulates e-scooters (trottinettes électriques) with a max speed of 25 km/h. The minimum age to ride an e-scooter is 12 years. France does not require adults to wear a helmet on e-scooters by national law (helmets are only compulsory for riders under 12, but since under-12s aren’t allowed to ride e-scooters anyway, effectively there’s no general helmet mandate—though authorities strongly recommend helmet use for safety). E-scooters must be equipped with lights, reflectors, a bell, and brakes. They may ride on bike lanes or on roads with speed limits up to 50 km/h, but not on sidewalks (unless walking the scooter or if a local city ordinance allows it at walking speed). Notably, since 2020 France requires all e-scooter owners to carry third-party liability insurance (similar to how car insurance works, to cover any damage you might cause). Major cities can impose additional rules: for example, Paris has banned rental e-scooters entirely as of September 2023 due to safety concerns, and other cities might enforce helmet rules or parking restrictions.

Electric bikes in France are widespread and follow EU standards. A pedelec with 250 W motor and assist up to 25 km/h is considered a bicycle – you don’t need a license or insurance to ride one. Helmets are mandatory for children under 12 on any bicycle or e-bike (including as passengers), but for older riders helmets are optional (though advisable). France does stipulate that at night or in low-visibility conditions, cyclists should wear a reflective vest outside urban areas and use lights. If an e-bike is modified to go faster than 25 km/h (or is a faster “speed bike”), it legally becomes a moped and requires registration, a helmet, insurance, and an appropriate license to use on the road.

Germany

Germany classifies standing electric scooters as “Elektrokleinstfahrzeuge” (very small electric vehicles) with specific rules. E-scooters must have a top speed of 20 km/h (if a scooter can go faster by design, it is not street-legal in Germany) and typically a motor power up to 500 W. The minimum age to ride is 14. Germany does not require helmet use for e-scooters by law (helmets are recommended, but most riders in cities go without). However, e-scooters do require liability insurance – riders must obtain an insurance sticker (license plate decal) each year and affix it to the scooter. This insurance covers any damage the rider may cause to others. Additionally, the e-scooter model itself must have general operating approval (ABE) in Germany; most models sold in Germany have this, but a scooter imported without certification cannot be used on public streets. E-scooters in Germany can ride on bicycle lanes or paths; if none are available, they may use the roadway (but not sidewalks or pedestrian zones). Riding under the influence of alcohol is strictly penalized (the same 0.5‰ BAC limit as for drivers, and zero tolerance for under-21 riders).

In Germany, electric bikes fall into a few categories. The standard pedelec (up to 25 km/h assist, 250 W) is treated as a bicycle and does not require registration, insurance, or a license. There is no mandatory helmet law for bicyclists or pedelec riders in Germany (helmets are common for sport cyclists but not for everyday city riders). Riders must follow bicycle traffic rules and use bike lanes. E-bikes that have a throttle (without pedaling) or that can go faster than 25 km/h are classified differently: up to 45 km/h they are “S-Pedelecs” and are considered mopeds (requiring a license, insurance plate, and helmet), and beyond that they fall into motorcycle categories. But the typical e-bike customer using a 25 km/h pedal-assist bike can ride it like any normal bicycle.

Greece

Greece permits e-scooters up to 25 km/h, and riders must be at least 15 years old. Greek law requires all e-scooter riders to wear a helmet. E-scooters should use bike lanes where available or ride on the roadways similar to bicycles (on streets with speed limits up to 50 km/h). They are not allowed on sidewalks except if the scooter is limited to walking speed (up to 6 km/h). E-scooters do not require a license or insurance in Greece as long as they meet the definition of a “Personal Mobility Device” (max 25 km/h, 4 kW or less). It’s worth noting that Greece only recently updated its laws, so enforcement of helmet use and other rules is being ramped up.

Electric bikes in Greece follow the general EU rules. Pedelecs (25 km/h, 250 W) are treated as bicycles. There is no mandatory helmet law for cyclists in Greece (helmets are advised but not legally required). E-bikes can be used on roads and bike paths just like normal bikes, and they don’t require registration or insurance. If an e-bike exceeds 250 W or has a throttle beyond 25 km/h, it would be considered a moped, but most consumer e-bikes stay within the limits. Riders should equip their bikes with lights and reflectors and obey all standard traffic rules for bikes.

Hungary

Hungary is in the process of clarifying its stance on electric scooters. As of early 2025, there is no specific nationwide legislation defining e-scooters, which means technically they do not fit neatly into any category. In practice, this regulatory gap means private e-scooters are in a gray area: they are not officially allowed on public roads, but enforcement has been lenient pending new laws. (There have been discussions about treating e-scooters like bicycles or creating a new category, with possible rules coming soon.) For now, riders should check local city ordinances – some cities have allowed pilot schemes or designated areas for e-scooters. If you do ride, use bicycle paths and wear a helmet for safety, as any forthcoming law is likely to mandate helmet use for minors at least.

Electric bikes in Hungary are generally treated as bicycles as long as they meet the EU standard (up to 25 km/h assist, 250 W). There is no helmet requirement by law for cyclists (it’s voluntary). No license or insurance is needed for a normal e-bike. Hungary has many cyclists, and e-bikes follow the same road rules: use bike lanes, respect traffic signals, and equip your bike with lights and reflectors when riding at night. If an e-bike can propel itself faster than 25 km/h, it would fall under moped regulations, but typical pedelecs stay within the bicycle category.

Ireland

Ireland only recently legalized electric scooters (in 2023/24) under a new category called “Powered Personal Transporters.” E-scooters are limited to a top speed of 20 km/h and maximum motor power of 400 W. Riders must be at least 16 years old to use an e-scooter legally. No driving license is required, and e-scooters do not need to be registered or insured as long as they meet the speed/power limits. Ireland does not mandate helmets for e-scooter riders by law, but wearing a helmet and high-visibility clothing is recommended. E-scooters are allowed on cycle lanes, local and regional roads, but not on footpaths, motorways, or in pedestrian zones. The Irish road safety authorities have set fines (around €50) for violations like speeding or pavement riding.

Electric bikes in Ireland are considered Electrically Assisted Pedal Cycles (EAPCs) and have been legal for some time. If an e-bike’s motor does not exceed 250 W and assists only up to 25 km/h, it is treated as a normal bicycle. This means no license, tax, or insurance is needed. There’s also no legal requirement for bicycle helmets in Ireland (it’s a personal choice, though safety campaigns encourage helmet use). E-bike riders should stick to bike lanes and roadways—riding on the sidewalk is not allowed for bikes either. If an e-bike exceeds the standard specifications, it would be classed as a mechanically propelled vehicle and require registration and a driving license (but this is not the case for typical retail e-bikes).

Italy

Italy has tightened its e-scooter rules as of late 2024. E-scooters (monopattini elettrici) are allowed on urban roads with speed limits up to 50 km/h, with the scooter’s own speed capped at 20 km/h (and 6 km/h in pedestrian areas). The minimum rider age is 14. A new law now makes helmets mandatory for all e-scooter riders (previously it was only for under-18s). Additionally, e-scooters in Italy must now carry liability insurance and have a visible license plate or registration sticker, similar to mopeds. Other safety requirements include front and rear lights, reflectors, and even turn signals on newer models. E-scooters are banned from sidewalks, pedestrian zones, bike paths, and all roads outside urban areas – effectively, you can only ride them on city streets (keeping to the right). Parking e-scooters on sidewalks is also restricted (only in designated areas). Fines in Italy for e-scooter violations range from €100 up to a few hundred euros, especially for riding without a helmet or insurance.

Standard electric bikes in Italy (called biciclette a pedalata assistita) are treated as bicycles under the law as long as they have a 250 W motor that cuts out at 25 km/h and only provides assistance while pedaling. You do not need a license, insurance, or registration for these e-bikes. Helmets are not mandatory for regular bicycle or e-bike riders in Italy (except for certain local rules or for S-Pedelecs which are a different category); however, helmet use is strongly encouraged for safety. (Italy considered a national bicycle helmet mandate for minors in the past, but as of 2025 it’s not in force nationally.) E-bike riders should follow normal cycling rules: use bike lanes where available, and do not ride on highways or sidewalks. If an e-bike has a throttle or exceeds 25 km/h, it becomes a motor vehicle (moped) under Italian law, requiring a license (AM category), insurance, and helmet.

Latvia

Latvia updated its e-scooter regulations in 2023/24. E-scooters must not exceed 25 km/h, and the motor power is limited to 1000 W. The minimum age for riding is 14, and riders under 18 are required to have a bicycle license (which involves passing a basic road safety test) unless they have a moped or car driving license. Helmets are strongly recommended for all riders but are not legally compulsory except for cyclists (note: for bicycles, helmets are mandatory under age 12; for e-scooters the law currently suggests helmet use but doesn’t enforce it for minors – it’s wise for younger riders to wear one given general safety norms). E-scooters in Latvia can use bicycle lanes, and if none are available, they may ride on the roadway (on streets up to 50 km/h) or on the sidewalk at walking speed when necessary, yielding to pedestrians. Riding while intoxicated is illegal (over 0.5‰ BAC) and traffic police can issue fines. E-scooter owners do not need to register or insure the scooter as long as it fits these criteria.

Electric bikes in Latvia are considered bicycles if they meet the 25 km/h, 250 W assist limit. Cyclists up to 12 years old must wear a helmet by law. Older cyclists are not required by law to wear one, but it is recommended. No license or insurance is required for standard e-bikes. Riders under 18 should ideally obtain a bicycle license as well (as it’s needed for road cycling for minors). The road traffic rules for e-bikes are the same as for any bicycle: use bike paths when available, ride on the right side of the road, and do not ride on sidewalks unless no other option (and then at a slow speed). Latvia also has a low permissible blood alcohol limit for cyclists (0.5‰).

Lithuania

Lithuania introduced comprehensive rules for e-scooters in 2024. E-scooters are limited to 20 km/h when traveling, and if passing pedestrians, they must slow to 7 km/h. By design, an e-scooter sold in Lithuania cannot have a top speed over 25 km/h or power over 1 kW. The minimum age to ride is 16 (or 14 if the person has completed special road safety training and has a certificate). Helmet use is mandatory for riders under 18. Notably, adults riding an e-scooter on a public road are also required to wear a helmet – effectively, if you’re mixing with traffic on roads, you must have a helmet regardless of age (if an adult is on a segregated bike path, a helmet is not legally forced, but it’s still strongly recommended). E-scooters should use bike lanes or paths; if riding on the road, they must stick to the right and obey cycling rules. They cannot ride on sidewalks except at walking speed when no other infrastructure is available. No insurance or registration is currently required for e-scooters.

For electric bikes, Lithuania treats them like bicycles as long as they fit the standard definition (up to 25 km/h, 250 W assist). Cyclists and e-bike riders under 18 must wear a helmet by law. Adults on bicycles are not required to, but many do for safety. No license or registration is needed for a normal e-bike. Like elsewhere, if an e-bike’s capabilities exceed the bicycle category, then it would be classified as a moped (with separate rules). On the road, e-bike users should use bicycle lanes where possible and abide by all traffic signs and signals. Riding an e-bike while under the influence has legal consequences just as it does for driving a car, due to safety enforcement.

Luxembourg

Luxembourg updated its road traffic laws in early 2021 to include e-scooters. E-scooters in Luxembourg can go up to 25 km/h and are limited to 250 W motor power. The minimum age to ride is 10 years (children 10–13 are allowed to ride only on sidewalks or in pedestrian zones at walking speed; once 14, they can ride on roads and bike lanes). There is no mandatory helmet law for e-scooter riders, but authorities “highly recommend” wearing one. E-scooters should use bike lanes when available; they may ride on the road if no bike lane exists (and the road’s speed limit is 50 km/h or less). Sidewalk riding is generally not allowed for older teens or adults, except in pedestrian areas where it’s permitted at walking pace. No insurance or registration is required for private e-scooters in Luxembourg as long as they meet the defined specs.

Electric bikes in Luxembourg follow EU norms. A pedelec (25 km/h, 250 W) is not considered a motor vehicle and so it’s treated as a bicycle. No special license or insurance is needed to ride one. There is no helmet mandate for cyclists, though it’s recommended to wear one for safety. Riders aged 10 and above can ride on public roads; children under 10 can ride as passengers or in safe zones but not in traffic alone. Luxembourg requires cyclists to have lights on even during the day and especially at night (and in fact, to always have lights on when riding an e-scooter or bike, day or night). Reflectors and a bell are also compulsory equipment on bikes. Aside from equipment, e-bike riders should follow standard cycling rules and stick to bike paths where provided.

Malta

Malta has taken a unique approach to regulating e-scooters. Privately owned e-scooters are allowed, but they must be individually approved by Transport Malta. The process requires the owner (or manufacturer) to present the scooter for inspection and obtain a one-time permit. Scooters are limited to 20 km/h and the rider must be at least 16 years old. Technically, Malta requires e-scooter riders to either pass a theory test or possess an AM category driving license to ensure they know traffic rules. At the moment, helmets are not legally mandatory for e-scooter riders in Malta, but the government has strongly recommended them and is considering making helmets compulsory. Each e-scooter must have liability insurance, and a small license plate sticker is issued upon approval/registration. E-scooters in Malta cannot be used on sidewalks, promenades, or roads with speed limits above 50 km/h. In 2024, Malta is also phasing out rental e-scooters entirely, meaning only private e-scooters will remain, under these strict conditions.

Electric bikes in Malta are regarded as bicycles as long as they fit the standard pedelec criteria. There is no general helmet requirement for cyclists in Malta (except that children under 10 being carried as passengers must wear a helmet). No license or registration is required for a normal e-bike. Malta’s small size and dense traffic mean cyclists and e-bikers should ride very defensively. It is advised to wear a helmet and high-visibility gear even if not mandated. E-bikes should not be ridden on major high-speed arteries and are expected to follow all normal traffic laws. The government has been promoting cycling infrastructure, but e-biking in Malta is still relatively limited due to road conditions, so riders should exercise caution.

Netherlands

The Netherlands has strict rules for electric scooters (e-steps). An e-scooter must be approved by the national vehicle authority (RDW) as a “special moped” before it can be used on public roads. Very few models have this approval as of 2025, which means most privately bought e-scooters are technically not street-legal in the Netherlands. Approved e-scooters are treated similarly to mopeds: they are limited to 25 km/h and must be insured (with an insurance sticker on the scooter). Starting in 2023, the Netherlands made helmets mandatory for all moped-type vehicles including those in the 25 km/h category – so e-scooter riders must wear a certified moped helmet when riding on public roads. E-scooters (if approved) should use bicycle paths or moped paths. If no such path is available, they can ride on the road in areas where bicycles are allowed. Sidewalk riding is not allowed. Because of the high standards and required helmet, one does not see many private e-scooter riders in Dutch cities (most use bikes), and the law is still evolving on how to handle the unapproved devices.

Electric bikes are extremely popular in the Netherlands and are basically treated as regular bikes under most circumstances. A standard e-bike/pedelec (up to 25 km/h assist) does not require a license, registration, or insurance. There is no helmet requirement for these normal e-bikes. The Dutch cycling infrastructure is built with bicycles (including e-bikes) in mind, so e-bikers use the extensive network of bike lanes. However, there is a separate category for speed pedelecs (high-speed e-bikes up to 45 km/h), which are classified as mopeds and thus require registration plates, a driving license (AM category), insurance, and helmet use (a special moped helmet or speed-pedelec rated helmet). Speed pedelecs in the Netherlands are generally required to use the roadway or moped lanes, not the standard bicycle paths in urban areas, to avoid conflicts with slower cyclists. The vast majority of e-bike riders on Dutch paths are using the standard 25 km/h models, and for them, riding is as simple as taking a normal bicycle out – just remember to follow the traffic rules (like yielding to pedestrians and obeying traffic lights specific to bike lanes).

Poland

Poland classifies e-scooters as “Urzadzenie transportu osobistego” (personal transportation devices). E-scooters can have a max speed of 20 km/h. The minimum user age is 10 years. Riders between 10 and 18 years old must possess a bicycle license (obtained via a basic traffic rules test) or a moped license; riders 18+ don’t need a license. Helmets are not compulsory for e-scooter riders regardless of age (though of course recommended for safety). E-scooters should use bike lanes whenever available. If there’s no bike lane, riding on the road is allowed only on streets with speed limits up to 30 km/h. Uniquely, Polish law allows riding an e-scooter on the sidewalk only if there is neither a bike lane nor a road with speed under 30 km/h available – in such cases, you must go at walking speed (about 6 km/h) and yield to pedestrians. No insurance or registration is required for personal e-scooters in Poland. The legal alcohol limit for riding an e-scooter is very low (0.2‰ BAC), and fines are steep for riding under the influence or breaking other rules (e.g. 500 złoty for speeding or improper sidewalk riding).

Electric bikes up to 25 km/h and 250 W in Poland are treated as bicycles. No license or insurance is necessary. There is no mandatory helmet law for cyclists in Poland (the government encourages helmet use, but it’s not required by law). Riders should stick to bike paths where possible, or ride on the right side of the road if no bike path exists. Similar to e-scooters, cyclists may ride on the sidewalk only in certain situations (for instance, if the road has high speed traffic and no bike lane, and the sidewalk is wide enough), and even then they must ride slowly and yield to pedestrians. At night, bikes (and e-bikes) must be equipped with front and rear lights. If an e-bike in Poland has more power or goes faster than the bicycle definition, it would be considered a moped and require registration and a moped license, but typical pedelecs stay within the bicycle category.

Portugal

Portugal includes e-scooters in the same category as bicycles and electric mobility devices. E-scooters can be used by all ages (though renting usually requires 16+ or 18+ depending on the company). The maximum speed allowed is 25 km/h. There is no national law compelling riders to wear a helmet on e-scooters, but it is recommended. In practice, many Portuguese cities encourage helmet use and some may require it for rentals. E-scooters must use cycle paths if available; if not, they can ride on roads, preferably those in urban areas with lower speed limits. They cannot be ridden on sidewalks or in spaces like public squares or promenades where motor traffic is prohibited. No insurance or registration is needed for private e-scooters in Portugal.

Electric bikes in Portugal are considered conventional bicycles as long as they adhere to the 25 km/h, 250 W limit. There is no mandatory helmet law for cyclists in general. (Portugal at one point considered requiring helmets for bike riders but currently has not made it law for standard cycling.) E-bike riders don’t need a license or insurance and are expected to follow the same rules as cyclists: use bike lanes, respect traffic signals, and not ride on sidewalks. In Lisbon, for example, there’s a growing network of bike lanes which both cyclists and e-scooter riders share. If you have a faster e-bike (over 25 km/h), it would be classified as a moped, requiring registration and a license. For the typical e-bike, none of that is necessary – you can enjoy the bike paths and city streets just like a normal bike, with the added boost of your motor.

Romania

Romania treats electric scooters similarly to bicycles in its traffic code. E-scooters are allowed a maximum speed of 25 km/h. The minimum age to ride is 14. Riders under 16 years old are required to wear a helmet while on an e-scooter. (Adults 16+ are not mandated to wear helmets, but it’s recommended.) E-scooters should use bike lanes where they exist; if not, they may ride on the road on areas with speed limits up to 50 km/h, staying as far right as practicable. They are not allowed on sidewalks or on roads outside built-up areas. It’s forbidden to ride e-scooters in parks or on cobblestone streets for safety. Riders must carry an ID if riding on the road (police can ask for age verification). No insurance or registration is required for e-scooters. Romania also has strict penalties for riding under the influence (the legal alcohol limit is 0.0‰ for anyone under 18, and 0.5‰ for adults, but riding any vehicle under influence can lead to fines or even criminal charges).

Electric bikes (pedelecs) in Romania up to 25 km/h are considered bicycles. There is no law forcing adult cyclists to wear helmets, though like many countries, Romania recommends helmet use. Teens under 16 must wear a helmet when cycling. No license or registration is needed for a standard e-bike. Cyclists and e-bikers must use cycle paths if available and obey all road signs and signals. Riding on sidewalks is not allowed unless it’s a marked bike path. During night or low-visibility conditions, bikes must have front and rear lights and reflectors. Romanian authorities, like elsewhere, emphasize that rules can change as micromobility evolves, so riders should keep an eye on any new regulations.

Slovakia

In Slovakia, e-scooters are treated as bicycles under the law. They can be ridden by people 15 years and older on public roads (younger children can ride e-scooters in areas without traffic, like parks or residential zones, and those under 15 should be supervised). The speed of e-scooters is limited to 25 km/h. There is no legal helmet mandate specifically for e-scooters, but since they’re equated to bicycles: cyclists under 15 years old must wear a helmet when riding (and all cyclists must wear a helmet outside of towns, by law). It’s safest to interpret that any e-scooter rider under 15 should also wear a helmet, and even adults are advised to use one. E-scooters can use bike paths, and they may go on the road where the speed limit is under 50 km/h if no bike path is available. Riding on sidewalks is allowed only at walking speed and only if pedestrian traffic won’t be impeded. There’s no requirement for insurance or registration for e-scooters.

Electric bikes in Slovakia follow the standard EU definition to be considered bicycles (250 W, 25 km/h assist). No license or registration is required. Cyclists under 15 years are required by law to wear helmets at all times; adult cyclists must wear a helmet when cycling outside city limits (helmet use is optional for adults within town/city limits, though still recommended). This rule would apply to e-bike riders as well. Bicycles and e-bikes should use dedicated cycling infrastructure where it exists. Riding two abreast is not allowed on roads, and reflective clothing is recommended at night (with lights required). If an e-bike exceeds the norms, it’s treated as a moped (with license and insurance obligations), but the average e-bike rider with a standard pedelec can enjoy the same freedoms as any cyclist.

Slovenia

Slovenia updated its regulations to include e-scooters in 2021. E-scooters (sometimes called “e-skiro” locally) can go up to 25 km/h and up to 250 W power. The minimum rider age is 14 (however, children aged 12–13 can ride an e-scooter if they have passed a cycling proficiency test and have a cycling license card). Riders under 18 years old are required by law to wear a helmet when using an e-scooter. Adults 18+ are not forced to wear one, but it’s recommended. E-scooters must stick to bike paths or lanes where available. If riding on the road, it can only be on roads with speed limit 50 km/h or less, and riders must keep to the right. They may also ride in pedestrian areas but only at walking speed. Riding on the sidewalk or on roads outside towns is prohibited. No insurance or registration is needed for e-scooters.

Electric bikes in Slovenia are treated like regular bikes as long as they meet the usual criteria (25 km/h, 250 W). Cyclists and e-bikers under 15 years old are required to wear a helmet. Older cyclists are not obligated by law to wear one (law changed in 2000), but many still do for safety. No license or insurance is needed for a standard e-bike. Slovenia has a lot of recreational cyclists, so the laws are bike-friendly. E-bike riders should use bike lanes and trails; on roads, they must ride as far right as practicable. At night, a reflective vest or similar high-visibility clothing is required in addition to lights. Just like elsewhere, if an e-bike goes beyond the standard (higher speed or power), it would be classified as a moped, but that’s not common for most consumer e-bikes.

Spain

Spain has a national framework for “vehículos de movilidad personal” (VMP) which covers e-scooters, but also gives cities leeway to make their own rules. Nationally, e-scooters are limited to 25 km/h and are not allowed on sidewalks, in pedestrian-only areas, or on intercity roads, highways, or urban tunnels. The recommended minimum age is 16 (some cities set their own age limits; Madrid allows from 15). As of 2021, Spain made it clear that e-scooter riders can be fined for not following traffic laws (e.g. running red lights, using a phone, etc., just like drivers). However, helmet rules have been left to local authorities: for instance, in Barcelona, starting 2025, helmets are mandatory for all e-scooter riders; Madrid currently “strongly recommends” helmets but does not mandate them for private scooters (though they do for rentals). Because of such differences, it’s crucial to check the city’s specific ordinance. Generally, e-scooters should use bike lanes or the roadway where allowed, and some cities impose lower local speed limits (like 15 km/h in certain zones). No insurance is mandated at the national level for private e-scooters, but again, a few cities require insurance for shared scooters or are considering requiring it for all. Penalties for misuse can range from €100 (for minor things like riding on a sidewalk) up to €500 for serious offenses (like drunk riding, which also leads to the scooter being impounded).

Electric bikes in Spain are treated as bicycles provided they meet the EU standard. Riders 16 and over can operate an e-bike without any license or insurance. By national law, bicycle riders (and thus e-bike riders) must wear a helmet when riding outside urban areas except in a few scenarios (e.g. going uphill or in very hot weather, or professional cyclists). Within towns and cities, adults are not obligated to wear a helmet, but riders under 16 must wear one at all times (even as passengers). So, if you’re 15 or younger, you need a helmet on an e-bike anywhere in Spain; if you’re an adult, you need it on highways or rural roads, but not necessarily on city streets (though it’s a good idea). Spain has many dedicated bike lanes in cities like Barcelona, Valencia, and Sevilla, and e-bikes are encouraged as part of the mobility mix. Just be aware that some large cities (like Barcelona) have considered requiring helmets for all cyclists as well; always check if the city you’re in has added its own twist to the rules. Aside from that, e-bike users should follow all normal traffic rules for bikes, and note that riding an e-bike under the influence can get you penalized under the same DUI laws as driving a car.

Sweden

Sweden considers e-scooters as bicycles in legal terms, as long as they have a maximum speed of 20 km/h and motor power not above 250 W. This effectively means Sweden has one of the stricter power limits for e-scooters (most other countries allow more wattage). If an e-scooter can go faster than 20 km/h or has more than 250 W, it’s no longer treated as a bicycle – it becomes an off-limits vehicle for public spaces (since it wouldn’t meet moped specs either). For the allowed e-scooters: the minimum riding age is 8 years when under adult supervision (though practically, rentals require 18+). Riders under 15 years old are legally required to wear a helmet when using an e-scooter or bicycle in Sweden. Riders 15 and older do not have a helmet mandate (but helmet use is common, especially among younger adults). E-scooters should use bike lanes and follow bicycle traffic rules. They may ride on roads if no bike lane is present, but not on sidewalks. There is no insurance or registration requirement for e-scooters under bicycle classification. Swedish law also prohibits riding e-scooters with a passenger – only one person per scooter – and mandates lights and reflectors when driving in the dark. Due to safety concerns, some Swedish cities have imposed further regulations (for instance, Stockholm has designated scooter parking zones and sometimes nightly curfews on rentals).

Electric bikes in Sweden are extremely popular and fall under the same rules as bicycles if they are standard pedelecs (max 25 km/h assist, 250 W). No license, no insurance, and no registration needed. By law, all cyclists under 15 must wear a helmet, so this applies to young e-bike riders too. There is no legal helmet requirement for adults (15 and over), but many wear them regardless. Sweden’s roads are very bike-friendly, with ample bike lanes in cities. An e-bike must have working brakes, a bell, and if ridden at night, lights and reflectors (white front, red rear, orange pedal or wheel reflectors). If you were to have an e-bike that goes above 25 km/h by motor power, it would be treated as a Class I moped, requiring registration, a license, insurance, and helmet – but these are sold and marketed specifically as “speed pedelecs” with those requirements. The typical e-bike you’d buy for commuting in Sweden stays within the bicycle category. Note that Sweden has a low legal alcohol limit for all vehicle operators, and while casual cycling with a bit of alcohol isn’t heavily policed, being very drunk on an e-bike could potentially lead to legal trouble under reckless endangerment laws.

Disclaimer: Regulations can change, and local authorities may have additional rules. Always verify the current laws with official sources or local government websites before riding, as safety requirements and legal conditions may be updated.