Legalization of Electric Scooters in Ireland
Electric scooters are now permitted on public roads in Ireland following the implementation of new regulations on Monday, May 20. The scooters must have a maximum power of 400W, a top speed of 20 km/h, and a maximum weight of 25kg.
Category of Motorized Personal Carriers
A new category of vehicles called Motorized Personal Carriers (MPCs) was introduced last June under the 2023 Road Traffic and Roads Act. Electric scooters are now classified as MPCs and must comply with technical specifications and usage guidelines to be legally used on public roads. Users must be 16 years or older and can ride in bike lanes and bus lanes, but not on sidewalks or pedestrian zones.
Regulations for Electric Bikes
Electric bikes can also be used in bike and bus lanes in Ireland, provided they have a maximum power of 250W, a motor that cuts off when pedaling stops, and a maximum speed of 25 km/h.
Situation in the UK
In the UK, electric scooters can only be used on public roads when rented as part of official trials. In 2022, the government announced the legalization of low-speed, zero-emission private scooters, but this measure has been delayed several times.
The Parliamentary Advisory Council for Transport Safety (PACTS) stated it was unlikely that legislation on private scooters would be enacted by 2024, with regulations mainly focused on safety.
Views in Scotland
Scotland’s Transport Secretary, Fiona Hyslop, recently stated that electric scooters will inevitably be part of future transportation in the country, although public opinion is quite divided and there are genuine safety concerns. It seems likely that electric scooters will soon be authorized in Scotland.
Technical Specifications of Scooters in Ireland
Irish regulations define electric scooters as vehicles with a small standing platform without a seat, intended for a single person. They can have two or more wheels and be powered by an electric motor. To be authorized on public roads, they must:
- Have a maximum continuous power of 400W
- Have a maximum net weight of 25kg (battery included)
- Have a design maximum speed of 20 km/h
- Have wheels with a minimum diameter of 200mm
- Be equipped with front and rear lights, reflectors, brakes, and a bell
- Possess a manufacturer’s plate certifying the power, weight, and design speed
Any non-compliant scooter will remain illegal.
Statements from the Minister of Transport and the Minister of State
Minister of Transport, Eamon Ryan, stated: “These regulations, which are only part of the broader 2023 Road Traffic and Roads Act, will help make our roads safer for all users and provide legal certainty to those choosing new forms of mobility. Over the years, we have observed an increase in electric scooters and bikes on our roads. These regulations clarify the use of these vehicles in our constantly evolving transport environment, safely and with respect for other road users, especially pedestrians and cyclists. They will also help prepare Ireland’s regulatory system for new technologies. I hope these provisions will give more people confidence to choose new ways of traveling, thus helping to reduce congestion, which will allow for more space for improved, faster, and more frequent public transport, as well as better walking and cycling infrastructure for everyone.”
Minister of State Jack Chambers added: “I welcome the publication of regulations for electric scooters and bikes that will provide more clarity for road users, ensuring greater safety. More and more people are choosing these types of vehicles to get around cities, towns, and countryside in our country, and it is essential to have an appropriate regulatory system and technical requirements for electric scooters. The regulations have been developed in consultation with various stakeholders and will be continually reviewed as this type of transport evolves. The Road Safety Authority will launch an information and awareness campaign to inform the public about the new regulations and, in particular, the requirements for users of these vehicles so that they can be used safely and legally.”
