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E-scooters are becoming increasingly popular due to their driving characteristics and speed. Especially in summer, people also like to ride longer distances and enjoy the airstream. We explain how fast you are allowed to ride them.
Maximum speed for e-scooters
If you are interested in buying an e-scooter, you should familiarise yourself with the legal regulations.
- If an e-scooter drives over 6 km/h, it falls under the category of “small motor vehicle”. Thus, different regulations apply to the e-scooter than to a bicycle.
- In Germany, e-scooters with a speed of up to 20 km/h receive a permit. E-scooters that go faster are not permitted for road traffic.
- If you drive an e-scooter on public roads, you need a general operating permit (ABE). You can obtain this from the manufacturer.
- You also need a registration number that proves your liability insurance. However, you will only receive this if you can present an ABE.
E-Scooter – Regulations at a glance
Because an e-scooter is a small vehicle, you must have certain requirements to be a driver. It is also important to pay attention to where you are driving.
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- To drive an e-scooter, you must be at least 14 years old. Renting e-scooters from sharing providers is only possible from the age of 18.
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- It is permitted to ride the e-scooter on cycle paths and cycle lanes. If there is no cycle lane, it is permitted to ride on the road. This also applies outside built-up areas. Riding on the pavement is prohibited.
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- Models with a speed of up to 6 km/h are excluded from the regulations as they drive at walking speed.
