In France, an electric scooter approved for road use and classified as an EDPM (Personal Motorized Mobility Device) can be ridden on cycle paths, greenways, and roads with a speed limit of 50 km/h—but never on sidewalks and never at more than 25 km/h. These rules, introduced in 2019 and strengthened in 2023, apply throughout French territory. At iScooter-France, specialists in electric mobility for over 5 years, here is everything you need to know to stay compliant with regulations in 2026.
Where can you ride?
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Cycle paths and greenways: the preferred space for EDPMs, shared with cyclists.
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Roads with a speed limit of 50 km/h: riding is authorized, while staying as close as possible to the right edge of the road.
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Meeting zones and pedestrian areas: riding is authorized at a maximum of 20 km/h, with absolute priority given to pedestrians.
Where is riding strictly prohibited?
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Sidewalks: €135 fine regardless of speed.
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Motorways and expressways: total prohibition.
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Roads where the maximum authorized speed exceeds 80 km/h: riding is prohibited, except for specific exceptions, notably for certain crossings.
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Bus lanes: prohibited in the vast majority of cities, unless local regulations specifically authorize their use.
Summary table
| Zone |
Authorized? |
Maximum speed |
Fine for violation |
| Cycle path |
✅ Yes |
25 km/h |
— |
| Road ≤ 50 km/h |
✅ Yes |
25 km/h |
— |
| Meeting zone |
✅ Yes |
20 km/h |
— |
| Sidewalk |
❌ No |
— |
€135 |
| Motorway |
❌ No |
— |
€1,500 |
Mandatory equipment in 2026
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Front and rear lights: mandatory, particularly to be visible day and night and in tunnels.
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Effective brakes on the wheels.
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Audible warning device, such as a bell or horn.
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Orange lateral reflective devices.
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High-visibility vest: mandatory at night or when visibility is insufficient, outside built-up areas.
Wearing a helmet is mandatory for those under 18 and strongly recommended for all users. 2025 Road Safety data indicate that 68% of serious accidents involving electric scooters involved users who were not wearing a helmet.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can you ride an electric scooter on the sidewalk in France?
No. Riding EDPMs on sidewalks has been prohibited since 2019. Even at a reduced speed, this violation can lead to a €135 fine. You should use cycle paths or, when authorized, the roadway on roads limited to 50 km/h.
What is the maximum authorized speed for an electric scooter in France?
French regulations limit the speed of EDPMs to 25 km/h on public roads. Devices exceeding this limit may fall under a different legal category and be subject to additional obligations, notably regarding registration, insurance, and licensing depending on their category.
Are electric scooters authorized on cycle paths in France?
Yes. Cycle paths and certain greenways are the preferred spaces for traveling by electric scooter. The maximum speed remains 25 km/h and, in shared spaces, pedestrians must always have priority.
Is insurance mandatory for an electric scooter in France?
Yes. Third-party liability insurance is mandatory for EDPM users. It can sometimes be included in certain insurance policies, such as home insurance, but it is important to check the precise coverage of your contract before riding.
Knowing the regulations well is the first step to using your electric scooter safely and in compliance with the law. Discover our selection of electric scooters adapted for use on public roads, designed to meet the requirements applicable in France in 2026.
