You often see them around the city: electric scooters. They seem like an easy way to get from A to B. However, many of these e-scooters are not allowed on public roads. They can only be used in your own garden or on private property. What are the actual rules? 5 questions and answers.

1. What is an e-scooter?

An e-scooter is an electrically powered scooter or electric kick scooter. The most common e-scooters are fully electric and run on rechargeable batteries. This means you dont need to push while riding to move forward; you just need to press the throttle. An e-scooter is considered a special type of moped, and the maximum speed is 25 kilometers per hour. Here are a few rules:

• You must be at least 16 years old to use an approved e-scooter on the road.
• You need liability insurance to use an approved e-scooter.
• You do not need a drivers license to ride an e-scooter.
• A helmet is highly recommended but not mandatory.

2. Can I ride my e-scooter on public roads?

An e-scooter falls under the category Special Mopeds. An e-scooter is only allowed on public roads if it is approved by the RDW. You ride an e-scooter on a bicycle path. You are not allowed to ride on the sidewalk! Additionally, you must be at least 16 years old to use an approved e-scooter on the road. People who use non-approved electric scooters on the road can receive a hefty fine. Many people buy such an electric vehicle abroad. But in the Netherlands, you are not allowed to use it on the road.

3. Can I get fined for using an e-scooter?

Yes! You can get a fine of about 300 euros if the e-scooter is not approved by the RDW. The e-scooter can even be confiscated. So make sure the e-scooter is approved. Ask the seller.

Important: an e-scooter cannot be approved retrospectively. If a seller claims their e-scooter will soon be allowed, this is incorrect. E-scooters can never be approved after production.

4. Am I insured if I use an e-scooter?

It is mandatory to have liability insurance for an e-scooter. It also needs an insurance plate or sticker and an identification number. Only an approved e-scooter can be insured and receive an insurance plate. A foreign-bought e-scooter that is not approved by the RDW cannot be insured in the Netherlands. 

Not insured or under 16? That can have serious consequences if you have an accident. Liability insurance will not apply. This can cause people to fall into debt.

5. What else should I be aware of?

Besides an insurance plate, an e-scooter must also have front and rear lights. It must also have clearly visible reflectors. Holding a phone is prohibited, just like on a bicycle. And do not let children under 16 ride it.

For more information on what is allowed and not allowed with electric scooters, visit this webpage from the Dutch government.

The RDW website contains a list of approved e-scooters.