Maynooth Post Primary School

E-Scooter Information Leaflet

Information shared with MPPS from

Declan Keogh - Road Safety, Cycling and Sustainable Transport Officer,

Kildare County Council

From, Monday 20th May 2024, e-scooters will be legal to use and operate on a public road under the Road Traffic and Roads Act 2023, however, students should note the following rules and restrictions for their age group.

Briefly,

E-scooters can only be used:

  • by people over16 years of age.
  • on cycle and bus lanes.
  • on local, regional and national roads.

E-scooters are not permitted:

  • to be used by people under
  • to carry goods or passengers.
  • to be used on footpaths, pedestrianised areas or on motorways.
  • To exceed a speed limit of 20 km/h.

An Garda Síochána will be enforcing the new rules and regulations around e-scooters.

A much broader outline on the use, safety and regulations around e-scooters are listed below, which I hope will provide you and students with further info on the e-scooters.

  1. What is an e-scooter?
    A. An electric scooter or e-scooter is a vehicle with a small standing platform and no seat, for use by one person only, with two or more wheels and propelled by an electric motor. The rider can also propel the e-scooter forward by pushing off the ground.

  1. When do the new laws for e-scooters come into force?
    A. The regulations for e-scooters come into force from today, Monday 20 May 2024

  1. Are e-scooters legal in Ireland?
    A. From 20 May 2024, e-scooters are legal to use on public roads under the Road Traffic and Roads Act 2023.

  1. What is the minimum age limit for e-scooter users?
    A. E-scooter users must be aged 16 or older. Gardai will have the power to seize an e-scooter if it’s being used by anyone under the age of 16.

  1. Do I need to register, tax, or insure my e-scooter?
    A. No.

  1. Do I need a licence to use my e-scooter in a public place?
    A. No.

  1. What are the rules for using e-scooters in Ireland?
    A. From 20 May 2024, e-scooter users must:


  • Drive on the left, including in cycle and bus lanes.
    • Be 16 or older.
    • Obey the rules of the road, particularly for traffic lights, pedestrian crossings, pelican crossings and zebra crossings.
    • Obey signals given by a Garda or school warden.
    • Obey all traffic lights, including bicycle traffic lights.
    • Obey all traffic signs in the same way that they apply to cyclists.
    • Not carry passengers or goods.
    • Not use the footpath.
    • Obey a speed limit of 20km/h.
    • Not hold or use a mobile phone.

  1. What are the technical specifications for e-scooters?
    E-scooters must:
  • Have a maximum power output of 400 watts or less.
    • Have a maximum weight of 25 kg (including batteries).
    • Have a maximum design speed of 20 km/h or less.
    • Have wheels with a minimum diameter of 200mm.
    • Be fitted with front and rear lights, reflectors, brakes and a bell.
    • Be fitted with a manufacturer’s plate certifying the power output, weight and design speed.

  1. What if my e-scooter doesn’t meet the technical requirements in the regulations?
    A. If your e-scooter doesn’t meet the current legislative requirements, it will remain illegal for you to use it in a public place. It will be subject to enforcement by An Garda Síochana and may be seized.

  1. Can I carry a passenger on an e-scooter?
    A. No. It’s illegal and unsafe for you to carry a passenger on an e-scooter and a fixed charge notice will apply if you’re caught.

  1. What rules apply for e-scooters for alcohol/drugs?
    A. An e-scooter may not be used while under the influence of an intoxicant. An e-scooter user charged with this offence will face a court appearance and can be fined up to €2,000.

  1. What are the rules governing the use of e-scooters in public places?
    From 20 May, E-scooters can be used:
    • by people over 16.
    • on cycle and bus lanes.
    • on local, regional and national roads.

E-scooters are not permitted:
• to be used by people under 16.
• to carry goods or passengers.
• to have a seat.
• to be used on footpaths, pedestrianised areas or on motorways.

In addition, where a bicycle is not permitted, e-scooters are not permitted either. Rules that cover bicycles apply to e-scooters.

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