The major 2025 reforms for electric scooters: what you need to know
In 2025, the legal framework for electric scooters will undergo significant changes in France. Faced with the widespread adoption of these vehicles in our cities, legislators have taken measures to better regulate their use, ensure user safety, and limit observed abuses. These new provisions concern the maximum authorized speed, mandatory equipment, traffic regulations, parking, and, of course, the penalties applicable in the event of a violation. Here's an overview of the main reforms to be aware of.
Reducing maximum speed: towards safer use
Until now, the speed of electric scooters was limited to 25 km/h on public roads. However, this limit is about to be revised downwards. The European Transport Safety Council (ETSC) recommends reducing the maximum speed to 20 km/h in order to reduce the severity of accidents and improve the safety of pedestrians and users themselves. In addition, recommendations are made to further regulate the technical performance of scooters, particularly in terms of braking and acceleration capacity , to avoid risky behavior.
Wearing a helmet: will it soon be compulsory?
In France, helmets are currently only mandatory for minors . However, with the increase in accidents involving head injuries, authorities are considering making helmets mandatory for all users , following the example of some European countries such as Italy. This measure, already supported by several road safety associations, aims to make drivers more responsible and reduce serious injuries. While regulations are still slow to be finalized, common sense suggests that people should wear a suitable helmet for all traffic.
Minimum age raised to 14 years
The September 2023 decree changed the minimum legal age for riding an electric scooter. You must now be at least 14 years old , compared to 12 previously. No driving license or BSR (Road Safety Certificate) is required, but mastery of the Highway Code remains essential. Many accidents are caused by a lack of knowledge or failure to respect priorities. The government also plans, through the Mobility Orientation Law (LOM), to modulate access to scooters based on the driving experience and maturity of users.
Integration of scooters into the Highway Code
Electric scooters are classified as Motorized Personal Transport Devices (MPDs) . As such, they are subject to the rules of the Highway Code , with variations depending on the location of the vehicle.
In built-up areas:
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Obligation to use cycle paths where they exist.
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Maximum speed of 25 km/h (or 20 km/h if the reform is adopted).
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No riding on sidewalks , except with explicit municipal authorization.
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Respect traffic lights, pedestrian crossings and traffic signs.
Outside urban areas:
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Traffic authorized only on greenways and cycle paths .
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Certain areas may be restricted or authorized at the discretion of municipalities, provided that a slow speed of 6 km/h is respected without disturbing pedestrians.
Parking: a growing issue in public spaces
With the proliferation of scooters, uncontrolled parking has become a major problem in many cities. To address this, specific parking zones have been established. It is now illegal to park your scooter on sidewalks , in front of public buildings, or near public transport stops. Users who do not comply with these instructions are liable to fines and confiscation of the vehicle .
As for self-service scooters, they are often equipped with geolocation systems requiring parking in pre-identified areas . Operators are required to quickly remove improperly parked vehicles, under penalty of sanctions.
Safety equipment: what is mandatory, what is recommended
The year 2023 showed that more than 70% of accidents involving scooters were linked to the absence or misuse of safety equipment . In 2025, several pieces of equipment will become mandatory :
Required:
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High visibility vest (or reflective armband/bag) at night or in low visibility.
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Front and rear lights , reflective reflectors .
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Audible warning sound at 50 meters.
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Efficient braking system .
Recommended:
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Certified helmet , well fitted.
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Elbow pads, knee pads, gloves and wrist guards for better protection in the event of a fall.
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Integrated kickstand , to avoid leaving the scooter unbalanced on public roads.
Formal prohibitions
Several behaviors are now strictly prohibited :
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Listening to music with earphones or headphones : fine of €135.
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Using a phone while driving: also prohibited.
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Carrying a passenger : the scooter is a single-seater vehicle.
Sanctions for non-compliance
The 2025 law provides for a strengthening of controls and dissuasive sanctions :
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Driving on unauthorized sidewalks : €135 fine, with risk of confiscation in the event of a repeat offense.
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Speeding : €35, or more if the safety of others is endangered.
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Failure to comply with traffic lights and signs : €135 fine.
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Lack of mandatory equipment : €11 to €35 depending on the failure.
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Driving outside authorized lanes : €35, increased in the event of a repeat offense.
In conclusion, the regulations governing electric scooters are evolving to better structure their use , guarantee everyone's safety, and fully integrate these new means of transport into the urban fabric. To continue to enjoy your scooter in complete freedom, it is essential to know and respect the rules in force.
