In France in 2026, a legal electric scooter must be limited to 25 km/h, carry third-party insurance, and use cycle lanes or the road. Regulations are tightening and fines are increasing. Iscooter-France, a leading specialist in electric scooters, gives you a complete breakdown of the rules so you can ride legally and confidently.
The Legal Framework for Electric Scooters in France
Since the decree of 23 October 2019, electric scooters are officially classified as Motorised Personal Transport Devices (EDPM) in France. This status defines circulation rules, mandatory equipment and applicable penalties. In 2026, enforcement has intensified in major French cities, with regular police checks in Paris, Lyon and Marseille.
Mandatory Technical Requirements
- Maximum speed: 25 km/h (mandatory electronic speed limiter)
- Motor power: maximum 500 W
- Front (white) and rear (red) lighting
- Effective braking system on both wheels
- Horn or bell
- Side reflectors
Where Can You Ride an Electric Scooter in France?
| Zone |
Permitted? |
Max Speed |
| Cycle lane |
✅ Yes |
25 km/h |
| Greenway (voie verte) |
✅ Yes |
25 km/h |
| Road (50 km/h limit) |
✅ Yes |
25 km/h |
| Pavement / footpath |
❌ No (unless local exemption) |
— |
| Motorway / national road |
❌ No |
— |
Mandatory Rider Equipment
-
Helmet: mandatory for under-18s, strongly recommended for all
-
Reflective vest: mandatory at night outside built-up areas
- No passengers allowed
- No headphones or hand-held phone use while riding
- Minimum age: 12 years old
Insurance and Fines in 2026
Third-party liability insurance is mandatory for any e-scooter ridden on public roads. Key fines to know:
-
No insurance: up to €3,750 + vehicle seizure
-
Speeding / derestricted scooter: €135
-
Pavement riding: €135
-
Phone in hand: €135
-
No lighting at night: €35
-
Riding under the influence: €750 + seizure
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the maximum speed for an electric scooter in France?
25 km/h on public roads. Derestricted models are illegal and subject to a €135 fine.
Is insurance required for electric scooters in France?
Yes. Third-party liability insurance has been mandatory since 2020. Riding uninsured can result in a fine of up to €3,750 and vehicle seizure.
Can you ride an electric scooter on the pavement in France?
No, except where a local authority has specifically authorised it. E-scooters must use cycle lanes or the road in 50 km/h zones. Fine: €135.
Is a helmet compulsory for electric scooters in France?
Mandatory for under-18s. Strongly recommended for everyone. In the event of an accident, riding without a helmet may affect liability.
What is the minimum age to ride an electric scooter in France?
12 years old. Under-12s cannot legally ride an electric scooter on public roads in France.
France's electric scooter regulations are clear: 25 km/h speed limit, mandatory insurance, cycle lanes first. Ride within the rules and you'll enjoy safe, stress-free urban mobility. Always choose a road-legal model from the start to simplify everything.
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