E-scooters have surged in popularity across Ireland, offering a cleaner, more efficient way to commute and explore. But with that rise comes an important question: what are the rules for e-scooters in Ireland?
Whether you’re already a rider or thinking of hopping on for the first time, it’s crucial to understand the e-scooter regulations in Ireland to stay safe—and legal—on the roads.
Are E-Scooters Legal in Ireland?
As of December 2023, e-scooters became officially legal under the Road Traffic and Roads Act 2023. However, while the legislation was enacted in December, it wasn’t until May 2024—when specific regulations were introduced—that riding an e-scooter on public roads in Ireland became fully permitted.
Key E-Scooter Rules in Ireland (2025 Update)
Here’s what you need to know before you kick off your next journey:
- Do I need a license or insurance to ride an e-scooter?
No! You don’t need a driver’s license or insurance to ride a standard e-scooter.
- What’s the speed limit for electric scooters in Ireland?
E-scooters are limited to a maximum speed of 20 km/h on public roads.
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What’s the minimum age to ride an e-scooter?
You must be at least 16 years old to legally ride an e-scooter in Ireland.
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Can I ride my e-scooter on footpaths or motorways?
No. Footpaths and motorways are off-limits. Stick to cycle lanes, bus lanes, and local, regional or national roads. Always drive on the left-hand side.
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Do I need to wear a helmet?
Helmets are not legally required—but highly recommended for your safety.
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Can I carry a passenger on my scooter?
No, only one rider per scooter is allowed.
What Kind of E-Scooters Are Legal in Ireland?
Not all electric scooters on the market are street legal. To be compliant with Irish road laws, your e-scooter must:
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No seat or saddle
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A maximum motor output of 400W rated power (not peak power).
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A maximum net weight of 25 kilograms (including batteries)
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Must be equipped with lights, a bell or audible warning device, reflectors, and brakes — and kept in a roadworthy condition at all times.
What happens if you ride an unregulated e-scooter? You could be fined or have your scooter seized by Gardaí, so it's always best to check before you ride.
Can You Use an E-Scooter on Private Property in Ireland?
Yes, the new laws only apply to public roads. On private property, you can ride more powerful scooters that may not meet the public-use standards - but safety still matters. Should you wear a helmet on private property? Absolutely—staying protected is always a smart move.
Why Understanding the Law Matters?
As Ireland continues to embrace greener forms of transport, staying up to date with the latest e-scooter regulations in Ireland ensures you're on the right side of the law. At LOCO Scooters, we’re not just about getting you from A to B—we’re here to help you do it safely, legally, and with a bit of style.
Whether you're commuting through Cork, cruising along the Dublin canals, or just out for fun, make sure you're informed.
Which E-Scooters Are Legal to Ride in Ireland?
We’ve done the homework so you don’t have to. Every model in the LOCO branded range is fully compliant with Irish road laws.
Whether you go for our compact LOCO Lite or something with a little more power like the LOCO Motion Pro, you can hit the road knowing your scooter is compliant, reliable, and built for Irish roads.
Looking for a street-legal e-scooter?
Shop our range of compliant electric scooters →