Do I need a driver’s license to use an e-scooter?
Which e-scooters, e-scooters, Segways and e-bikes require a driver’s license.
Tina Tempo:
We live in the countryside and my son has quite a long way to school. He would therefore like an e-scooter. Does he need a driver’s license to use such an e-scooter?
Answer:
Hello Tina
In legal terms, a distinction is made between motorcycles and light motorcycles. E-bikes with an output of more than 500 watts (faster than 25 km/h) are considered motorized bicycles. E-scooters, e-scooters, Segways and e-bikes up to a maximum of 500 watts, on the other hand, fall into the category of light motorized bicycles. The Federal Roads Office (Astra) has compiled a great overview of electric trend vehicles.
Young people between the ages of 14 and 16 require a category M driving license to use an e-scooter. From the age of 16, a driving license is no longer required for e-scooters. If your son is not yet 14 years old, the cantonal authorities can issue the category M driving license earlier in exceptional cases.
Important: Observe the traffic regulations that apply to e-scooters, which we have already covered in an earlier article.
