E-scooters for children: What parents absolutely need to know!

E-scooters for children: What parents absolutely need to know!

E-scooters are becoming increasingly popular, especially as gifts for tenth or eleventh birthdays. But while many children in Germany come into contact with e-scooters at an early age, they are only permitted on public roads from the age of 14. Katharina Felsch, police spokeswoman in the Gütersloh district, emphasizes this in her current statements on safety when using these vehicles. The minimum age is uniform nationwide and there are no exceptions that would allow younger drivers to use an e-scooter, according to current information from etecmag.com underline.

In order to be able to drive legally, e-scooters in Germany must have a valid operating license and an insurance license plate. Without these requirements, they may not be used in traffic. Even if a driver's license, a moped test certificate or even a car license are not required, it remains important that all e-scooter drivers observe the appropriate safety precautions.

Rules and security

The police carry out regular checks at so-called hotspots such as train stations and major events. In 2024, over 5,000 e-scooter checks were carried out in Berlin in order to detect rule violations at an early stage and increase road safety. The most common violations include driving on sidewalks and exceeding speed limits, as e-scooters are only considered small electric vehicles if they have a maximum speed of 20 km/h and a maximum power of 500 watts.

Tuning these vehicles to drive faster than 20 km/h is strictly prohibited. This leads to the loss of approval, which in turn can result in compliance with helmet and driving license requirements. Even if helmets are not required, it is strongly recommended that children wear a helmet.

Regulations and fines

The legal requirements also provide for special liability insurance for e-scooters. This insurance license plate must be renewed annually by March 1st. If there is no insurance coverage, fines of up to 5,000 euros can be imposed. It is important to note that in the event of accidents where a driving license is not required, no points will be awarded in Flensburg.

Statistics show that over 10,000 e-scooter accidents were recorded in 2024, and a shocking 40% of those involved in the accident were under 25 years old. This highlights the importance of education and safety when dealing with these electrically powered vehicles. E-scooters must also comply with all traffic rules, such as stopping at traffic lights and obeying traffic signs. Driving under the influence of alcohol and drugs is strictly prohibited and the same alcohol limits apply as when driving. In addition, using smartphones while driving is subject to a fine of up to 100 euros. Ultimately, e-scooters can only be used by one person at a time; Taking additional people with you is illegal.

It is essential for parents to be aware of these regulations and risks when giving e-scooters to their children. All regulations serve to increase road safety and prevent accidents by establishing clear rules for the use of these popular means of transport.