Molly Ayala
Electric mopeds have gained popularity as a convenient, eco-friendly mode of transport. However, the laws and requirements surrounding their use vary across different countries and states. In the UK, for instance, you need at least a provisional driving licence and must complete Compulsory Basic Training (CBT) to ride an electric moped on public roads. Electric mopeds are also subject to speed limits, insurance requirements, and tax exemptions. In the US, the regulations differ from state to state, with some states requiring licenses, registration, or insurance for electric mopeds, while others do not. Understanding the specific laws and regulations in your region is crucial before riding an electric moped to ensure safety and compliance with legal requirements.
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What You'll Learn
Age and licence requirements
In the UK, you must be at least 16 years old to ride an L1e electric scooter (50cc). Riders under 17 are restricted to vehicles with a maximum capacity of 50cc. Riders must also have at least a provisional driving licence and complete Compulsory Basic Training (CBT). Once you've passed your CBT, you'll need to display L plates until you pass your full motorcycle test, unless you are exempt due to an older full licence. You will not be able to ride on motorways or carry a pillion passenger.
To ride higher-powered electric motorcycles (i.e. above 50cc), the training and licence requirements are the same, but you must be at least 17 years old.
In the US, the legal requirements for riding electric scooters vary significantly across states and cities. Some states may require that you have a licence, registration, or insurance for your electric moped for it to be street legal. Electric mopeds may be classified as mopeds, motor-driven cycles, or motorcycles, each of which has different regulatory requirements. In some states, electric mopeds are not street-legal and you may face fines or other penalties.
In New York City, e-scooters are allowed and may be ridden in bike lanes and on streets with speed limits no greater than 30 mph. They must not be ridden on sidewalks, unless there is no alternative, in which case riders must yield to pedestrians, give audible signals, and reduce their speed.
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Safety gear and insurance
While riding an electric moped, it is important to prioritise your safety and ensure you have the necessary gear and insurance in place. Here are the key considerations:
Safety Gear:
Helmet: Wearing a helmet is an essential safety measure. Look for one that meets or exceeds safety standards, fits snugly, and provides adequate ventilation. Some countries mandate the use of helmets
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Speed limits
In the UK, the maximum speed for electric mopeds is 28 mph (45 km/h) if they are classified as L1e vehicles. These mopeds can be ridden from the age of 16, but a provisional driving licence and a display of L plates are required. For higher-powered electric motorcycles, you must be 17 years old and have a CBT certificate.
In the US, speed limits for electric mopeds vary across states and cities. For example, in New York City, e-scooters cannot be operated in excess of 15 mph and may only be ridden in bike lanes and on streets with speed limits no greater than 30 mph. In contrast, some states may categorise electric mopeds alongside traditional mopeds, which require registration and have different speed limits.
In Europe, the "Regulation (EU) No. 168/2013" on the unified certification and market supervision framework for L-class vehicles was implemented on January 1, 2016, providing a standard for electric mopeds.
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Where you can ride
Electric mopeds are a convenient and eco-friendly mode of transport that has gained popularity in recent years. However, their legal status and the rules governing their use vary across different regions. Here is an overview of where you can ride electric mopeds in different parts of the world:
United Kingdom:
In the UK, electric mopeds are considered motor vehicles and are subject to specific regulations. You can ride an L1e electric scooter (50cc) from the age of 16 with a provisional driving licence and after completing Compulsory Basic Training (CBT). Displaying L plates is also required until you obtain a full licence. Electric mopeds cannot be ridden on bike paths or motorways and must adhere to a maximum speed limit of 28 mph (45 km/h). They are exempt from motorcycle tax but require insurance and an MOT certificate after the vehicle is three years old.
United States:
In the US, the laws regarding electric mopeds vary significantly from state to state. Some states may categorise electric mopeds as mopeds, requiring registration and compliance with specific safety requirements. In other states, electric mopeds may be allowed on public streets and sidewalks if they meet Federal Law requirements and local regulations. Riding on sidewalks is generally discouraged, and riders should yield to pedestrians and give audible signals when necessary.
European Union:
The European Union has implemented "Regulation (EU) No. 168/2013" for the certification and market supervision of L-class vehicles, which includes electric mopeds. Manufacturers like DOFA design their electric mopeds to meet the requirements of European countries, ensuring compliance with local regulations.
It is important to remember that the laws and regulations regarding electric mopeds can change over time, so it is always advisable to check the latest information for your specific region before riding.
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Registration and tax
In the UK, electric mopeds are exempt from road tax as they are electric vehicles with zero emissions. However, they must be registered with the DVLA using a V5 document. Electric mopeds can't be used on bike paths as they are classed as motor vehicles and must be ridden on public roads. The speed limit for electric mopeds in the UK is 28 mph (45 km/h).
In the US, the regulations vary across states and cities. Most states do not require electric scooters to be registered as motor vehicles as they lack the necessary paperwork and equipment. However, if an electric scooter does not meet the requirements of an electric bike, it is classed as a motorcycle or moped, which requires registration and taxes. In some states, electric mopeds are not considered street legal and may result in fines or penalties. It is important to research the laws in your state and ensure your electric moped complies with the necessary safety requirements.
In Europe, electric mopeds must conform to the "Regulation (EU) No. 168/2013" on the unified certification and market supervision framework regulations for L-class vehicles, which was implemented on January 1, 2016. Electric mopeds that meet these standards will have a Certificate of Conformity.
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Frequently asked questions
To ride an electric moped in the UK, you need a provisional driving licence and must complete Compulsory Basic Training (CBT). You must also display L plates until you qualify for a full licence. Electric mopeds are exempt from motorcycle tax and road tax, but you will need insurance and an MOT certificate after the vehicle is three years old.
Electric moped laws vary from state to state in the US. While most states do not require riders to have separate insurance, some states may require a licence, registration, or insurance for your electric moped to be street legal. Electric scooters are not allowed on sidewalks in most states, but some may permit them if the speed is reduced to around 5-10 mph.
In the UK, you can ride an L1e electric scooter (50cc) from the age of 16. You will need to be at least 17 years old to ride an L3e category (<=11kw) 125cc equivalent.
