Skip to content ↓

E-Scooters and E-Bikes in the UK: What Parents Need to Know

E-scooters and e-bikes have become a common sight on UK streets, but there are still missing pieces to puzzle in regards to how they are regulated – lots of young people don't understand the current laws and for parents, that can make it really difficult to know if you're keeping your child safe. It’s important for you to understand that these vehicles don’t sit in the same legal category as ordinary bikes - the rules around their use are quite strict—and in some cases, surprising

This guide breaks down the key points every parent should know.

1. E-Scooters: The Legal Position

Privately Owned E-Scooters

  • Where they can be used: Currently, privately owned e-scooters cannot be legally used on UK public roads, pavements, cycle lanes, or footpaths.
  • Where they are legal: They can only be used on private land with the landowner’s permission.
  • Penalties: Using an e-scooter on public roads could result in fines, penalty points on a driving licence, or even the scooter being crushed.

Rental E-Scooters

  • Government trials: Some UK cities are running government-approved e-scooter rental schemes. These are legal but come with conditions.
  • Requirements:
    • Riders must be 18 or older.
    • A full or provisional driving licence is required.
    • Helmets are recommended but not mandatory.

⚠️ Important for parents: Children under 18 cannot legally ride rental e-scooters, and private e-scooters remain restricted to private land.

 

2. E-Bikes (Electric Bicycles): The Legal Position

E-bikes are treated differently to e-scooters, but there are still rules to follow.

Electrically Assisted Pedal Cycles (EAPCs)

To be considered an EAPC (and treated like a normal bicycle), an e-bike must meet these conditions:

  • The motor must stop assisting at 15.5 mph (25 km/h).
  • The motor power must be no more than 250 watts.
  • The pedals must be able to propel the bike.

If these rules are met:

  • No licence, tax, or insurance is needed.
  • But riders must be 14 years or older.
  • They can be used on roads and cycle paths, just like regular bikes.

Faster or More Powerful E-Bikes

If an e-bike goes faster than 15.5 mph or has a motor above 250w, it is legally classed as a motor vehicle. This means:

  • It requires registration, insurance, tax, and an MOT.
  • The rider needs a driving licence and must wear a motorbike helmet.
  • It cannot be ridden on cycle paths.

3. Key Safety Considerations for Parents

Even where riding is legal, safety should come first:

  • Helmets: Strongly recommended for both e-scooters and e-bikes.
  • Protective gear: Gloves, knee/elbow pads, and high-visibility clothing improve safety.
  • Supervision: For teenagers with e-bikes, it’s worth checking they understand road rules and are confident in traffic.
  • Insurance: While not required for e-bikes, some families choose specialist insurance to cover theft or accidents.

4. The Bottom Line

  • E-scooters: Private ones are not legal on UK public roads—only on private land. Rental schemes are legal but only for 18+ licence holders.
  • E-bikes: Legal from age 14 if they meet EAPC rules (250w, 15.5 mph limit, pedal assist). Anything more powerful is classed as a motor vehicle.

 

Takeaway for parents: While e-scooters and e-bikes might look like toys, the law treats them very differently. Before buying one for your child, make sure you understand the rules—otherwise, they could end up facing fines, penalties, or worse, getting hurt.

Cookie Policy