E-SCOOTERS AND THE LAW

What is the law on e-scooters?

Currently in the UK, you can legally buy an e-scooter, but you cannot ride it on a public road, cycle lane or pavement. 

The only place it can be used is on private land. 

The reason for this is that e-scooters are treated as motor vehicles by the Department of Transport and are subject to the same legal requirement as other vehicles, such as MOT, licencing, tax and insurance. Because they don’t always have number plates, signalling ability or visible rear lights, they cannot be used legally on the roads.

What happens if I am stopped by the police?

The police will advise you on the law and may ask you to take your e-scooter home. They may, however, still penalise you depending on the seriousness of the offence. If caught riding an e-scooter, fines you may receive can include: 

Other offences which may result in penalties include riding on the footpath, using a mobile phone, riding through red lights and drink driving offences.

To find out more, visit www.met.police.uk/e-scooters