The rules around electric scooters and electric motorbikes in the UK are different and often confused. Electric motorbikes (e-motorcycles) are legal on public roads with the correct licence. Electric scooters (e-scooters) are only legal on public roads as part of official government rental trials — privately owned e-scooters cannot legally be ridden on roads or pavements.

Electric Motorbikes — What Licence Do You Need?

An electric motorcycle is treated exactly like a petrol motorcycle under UK law. The licence you need depends on the bike’s power output. Bikes up to 11 kW (15 bhp) equivalent fall under A1. Bikes up to 35 kW (47 bhp) equivalent require an A2 licence. Bikes over 35 kW require a full Category A licence. You still need CBT to ride on a provisional licence regardless of whether the bike is electric or petrol.

Electric Mopeds — Rules and Licences

An electric moped (up to 50 cc equivalent, speed-limited to 30 mph) is treated the same as a petrol moped. You must be at least 16, hold a provisional licence, and complete CBT. If you passed your car test before 1 February 2001, you may have automatic moped entitlement — check your licence.

E-Scooters on Public Roads — Currently Illegal Without a Trial

Privately owned electric scooters cannot legally be ridden on UK public roads, cycle lanes, or pavements as of 2026, regardless of their speed or power. The only legal e-scooters on roads are those provided through official DVSA-approved rental trials in specific areas. Riding a private e-scooter on the road risks a fine, penalty points, and seizure of the scooter.

What About Electric Bikes (E-Bikes)?

An electrically assisted pedal cycle (EAPC) — commonly called an e-bike — is legal without any licence or CBT, provided it meets EAPC regulations: maximum continuous rated power of 250 W, assistance cuts out above 15.5 mph, and the rider must be 14 or older. E-bikes that exceed these limits are treated as motorcycles and require a licence.

Do Electric Motorcycles Need MOT and Insurance?

Yes. Electric motorcycles registered for road use require MOT (from 3 years old), insurance, road tax (usually zero-rated for zero-emission bikes), and the same licensing as a petrol bike. The charging infrastructure and running costs are different, but the legal requirements are identical.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a licence to ride an electric scooter in the UK?

Privately owned e-scooters are not legal on UK public roads regardless of licence. Rental e-scooters in trial areas require at least a provisional licence and CBT (category Q or AM entitlement). Check local trial rules before riding any e-scooter on a public road.

Can I ride an electric motorcycle on a CBT certificate?

Yes, if the electric motorcycle is equivalent to a 125 cc machine (within A1 power limits). Treat it exactly as you would a petrol 125 cc — CBT required, L-plates, provisional licence.

Is an electric motorbike cheaper to insure than petrol?

Insurance varies by insurer and model. Electric motorcycles are increasingly common but specialist insurers often offer competitive premiums. Always compare quotes for your specific bike.

What happens if I ride a private e-scooter on the road?

You risk a Fixed Penalty Notice, up to 6 penalty points on your licence, a fine of up to £300, and seizure of the e-scooter. Your vehicle insurance (if any) would also be void.

Will private e-scooters become legal in the UK?

The government has been reviewing e-scooter legislation since 2020. As of 2026, private e-scooter riding on public roads remains illegal. Check gov.uk for the latest position on legislation changes.

Interested in legal electric riding? Book your CBT in Warrington to ride an electric 125 cc motorcycle legally. Questions about licences? Read which licence you need or how to get a motorbike licence.