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.
- 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.
- 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
- 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.
- 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.
- Do I need to register, tax, or insure my e-scooter?
A. No.
- Do I need a licence to use my e-scooter in a public place?
A. No.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.