What age can you ride an electric scooter？

In general, it's not legal for a 12-year-old to ride an electric scooter on public roads in the UK, as they would not meet the minimum age requirement. E-scooters are classified as Personal Light Electric Vehicles (PLEVs), and there are specific regulations governing their use, including age restrictions, speed limits, and other safety requirements.

Always ensure you are aware of the current rules and guidelines in your area to ensure compliance with the law and prioritize safety while using electric scooters.
Can over 16 years old ride electric scooters?

As of my last update in September 2021, the minimum age to ride an electric scooter (e-scooter) on public roads and spaces in the UK was 16 years old. However, it's important to note that the regulations surrounding electric scooters are subject to change, and local laws may differ in different regions of the UK.

E-scooters were classified as Personal Light Electric Vehicles (PLEVs), and to legally ride them on public roads, they needed to meet specific requirements, such as being limited to a maximum speed of 15.5 mph (25 km/h) and having a power output not exceeding 500 watts.

In 2023, there are no specific documents indicating the age requirement for riding electric scooters. However, we do not recommend anyone under the age of 16 to ride electric scooters. This recommendation aligns with the restrictions set by the government for electric scooter trials.

Will the police stop riding an electric scooter under the age of 16?
Yes, in the UK, the police may stop a person riding an electric scooter if they appear to be under the age of 16. As of my last update in September 2021, the minimum age to ride an electric scooter on public roads and spaces in the UK was 16 years old. If a police officer observes someone who looks younger than 16 riding an electric scooter on public roads, they have the authority to stop them to verify their age and ensure compliance with the law.

If the rider is indeed under the legal age, the police may issue a warning, educate them about the regulations, and instruct them to discontinue their ride. In some cases, the police may also contact the rider's parents or guardians to address the issue.

It's crucial for both riders and parents/guardians to be aware of the local laws and regulations regarding electric scooter use to ensure everyone's safety and adherence to the law. As laws and regulations can change, it's advisable to check for any updates on age restrictions or electric scooter rules in your area.
What happens if you get caught with an electric scooter?
As of my last update in September 2021, the regulations regarding electric scooters in the UK were part of a trial program, and their use on public roads was subject to certain restrictions. However, please note that the rules and regulations may have evolved since then, so it's crucial to verify the latest guidelines in your area. Here's what could happen if you were caught with an electric scooter in the UK during the trial period:

• Riding on Public Roads: If you are caught riding an electric scooter on a public road or highway, you could face a fine, penalty points on your driving license (if you have one), or even prosecution.
• Age Restrictions: If you are under the legal minimum age for riding electric scooters on public roads (which was 16 during the trial period), you might receive a warning, and the scooter could be seized.
• Insurance and License: Electric scooters used on public roads during the trial had to be covered by appropriate insurance, and the rider needed a full or provisional driving license. Riding without the necessary insurance or license could result in penalties.
• Speed Limit Violations: Electric scooters used on public roads were required to have a maximum speed limited to 15.5 mph (25 km/h). Riding at higher speeds might lead to penalties.
• Road Restrictions: Some areas had specific trial zones where electric scooters were allowed, while others had restrictions. Riding in restricted zones could result in fines or penalties.
• Confiscation: The police might confiscate an electric scooter if they find it being ridden illegally or dangerously. To retrieve it, you might need to pay a fine or meet other requirements.
• Points on License: Depending on the severity of the violation and if you hold a driving license, you might receive penalty points on your license.

Since regulations can change, it's crucial to check the current rules and guidelines in your specific area regarding electric scooter use on public roads. The UK government was conducting trials in various regions, and the rules may have changed or been updated since my last update in 2021.