Electric scooter users must comply with new regulations to ride legally. The DGT requires these personal mobility vehicles (VMPs) to be registered in the National Vehicle Registry and have identification and mandatory insurance. Registration is an essential prerequisite for obtaining this coverage.
Failure to comply with these requirements can result in significant financial penalties. According to OCU calculations, the lack of registration can be fined between €202 and €610, with similar amounts for non-compliance with insurance obligations. The accumulation of these infractions could reach a maximum of €1,220. Additionally, fines range from €250 to €800 for riding without valid insurance.
Beyond administrative sanctions, the risk increases considerably in the event of an accident. An uninsured rider could be forced to personally cover compensation, which OCU estimates can easily exceed €200,000 and reach up to €500,000 in cases of severe injuries. In 2024, Fundación Mapfre recorded 396 incidents involving VMPs, resulting in 240 injuries and 14 fatalities.
The registration process with the DGT costs €8.67 for certified vehicles, providing a digital certificate and registration number. The identification sticker may cost an additional €20. As for insurance, an annual policy for an electric scooter ranges between €60 and €160, varying by coverage, which may include protection against theft, fire, or damage to the vehicle.
Older, non-certified electric scooters must also be registered and insured under a temporary scheme until January 22, 2027. After that date, only VMPs meeting DGT certification requirements will be allowed. Therefore, it is advisable to check the certification before purchasing a new scooter.
From October 1, 2026, new obligations will come into effect, including mandatory helmet use, a minimum age of 15 years to ride, and the requirement for luminous or reflective elements for night or low-visibility riding. The regulations also explicitly prohibit carrying passengers and riding on sidewalks, offenses that will be penalized.
