Our motoring editor is here to answer all of your burning questions about e-scooters and the upcoming legislation surrounding them. Despite their increasing popularity, e-scooters are currently illegal on Irish roads due to their classification as mechanically propelled vehicles (MPVs). To legally use an MPV on the roads, it must be taxed, insured, registered, and operated by someone with a valid license. However, e-scooters cannot meet these criteria as they cannot be taxed, insured, or registered at this time.
You may be wondering about the current situation with e-scooters and if they have become legal since the Road Traffic and Roads Act 2023 was signed into law. Unfortunately, the Act itself is primary legislation, and the secondary legislation, which includes the necessary regulations, is still in process. It is not expected to be completed until the end of the year, so e-scooters will remain illegal until then.
So, what are the regulations that will be implemented for e-scooters? There are two types: technical regulations and usage regulations. E-scooters intended for use on public roads must have a maximum continuous rated power output of 400W or less, a maximum net weight of 25kg (including batteries), a maximum design speed of 20km/h, wheels with a minimum diameter of 200mm, front and rear lights and reflectors, brakes, and a bell. They must also have a manufacturer’s plate that certifies the power output, weight, and design speed.
If an e-scooter complies with these technical regulations, it will be permitted for use on Irish roads, but it will still be subject to certain usage conditions. The rider must be at least 16 years old and only one person can use the e-scooter at a time. Additionally, e-scooters cannot have a seat as it can make them more unstable and decrease the rider’s reaction time. The general speed limit for e-scooters will be set at 20km/h, regardless of whether the e-scooter is capable of going faster. Users will not be allowed to ride on footpaths or motorways.
It’s important to note that there will be penalties for traffic and driving offenses related to e-scooters. Fixed charge notice (FCN) penalties, also known as tickets, will apply, with a set financial value of €50.
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