The electric scooter has become an integral part of the modern urban landscape. From young people navigating through the city to commuters covering their last few kilometers in an eco-friendly way, the e-scooter is trendy, convenient, and sustainable. However, in the Netherlands, there has long been uncertainty about the legal use of e-scooters on public roads. That’s about to change.
Starting 1 July 2025, a new law will come into effect requiring electric scooters to have a license plate in order to be legally used on public roads. In this article, we explain what this regulation entails, why it was introduced, and how you can prepare for the legalization of electric scooters.
What is the legalization of electric scooters?
The term "legalization of electric scooters" refers to the process by which the government sets clear rules for the use of electric scooters on public roads. Until now, e-scooters in the Netherlands existed in a legal gray area. Many popular models did not meet the requirements for public road use, meaning they were officially only allowed on private property.
With the introduction of the license plate requirement, that is changing. Electric scooters that are approved and registered will receive an official status as a special moped, allowing them to be legally used on bike paths and roads.
Why a license plate requirement?
The license plate requirement serves several purposes:
- Improve road safety
- Better monitoring and enforcement
- Mandatory insurance
- Level playing field for all types of vehicles
Registering electric scooters makes them safer and easier to control. It also means that riders can be held liable and insured from that moment on.
Which vehicles require a license plate?
The license plate requirement applies to all new vehicles without pedal assistance that fall under the category of special mopeds. These vehicles may not exceed 25 km/h and must have a motor with a maximum output of 4 kW. This includes:
- Electric scooters
- Segways
- Electric unicycles
- BSO buses (after-school transport vehicles for children)
A transitional arrangement applies to existing vehicles, you have until 1 July 2026 to register your vehicle. After that date, only approved and registered scooters may be used on public roads.
What are the consequences for current e-scooter users?
Do you already own an electric scooter? Then it’s important to check whether your model qualifies for registration. This depends on your vehicle’s technical specifications. Key criteria include:
- Maximum speed (25 km/h)
- Wheel size and stability
- Presence of lights, bell, and brakes
- CE marking or RDW type approval
If your scooter does not meet these requirements, it cannot be registered for public road use. In that case, you can only ride it on private property or switch to an approved model.
How do you apply for a license plate?
Applying for a license plate is done through the RDW. The process works as follows:
- Check whether your model is approved for public road use
- Schedule an inspection with the RDW
- Meet the requirements such as brakes, lights, bell, stability, and construction speed
- Submit an application via the RDW website
- Receive your license plate and certificate, and attach the plate visibly to your scooter
The cost for registration is temporarily reduced to approximately €18 to make the transition more accessible for users.
Which electric scooters are approved?
At the moment, only a limited number of models are approved for public road use. These models meet all technical requirements and are certified by the RDW as special mopeds. They are generally larger scooters with wider tires and more stability than the lighter models often seen abroad. It is expected that more models will soon be approved, now that the legislation around the legalization of electric scooters is becoming clearer. Many manufacturers are actively developing modified versions that comply with Dutch standards.
Fines and risks of non-compliance
From 1 July 2026, anyone riding an electric scooter without a license plate risks a fine of several hundred euros. In addition, the police may confiscate the vehicle. Even more serious is the fact that you are not insured in the event of an accident if your scooter is not registered. This can lead to substantial damage claims and legal issues.
What does this mean for you as a consumer?
Are you planning to buy an electric scooter? Then it's essential to pay attention to the following points:
- Check whether the model is approved for public roads
- Ask if the manufacturer or seller offers RDW registration
- Take out third-party liability insurance once your scooter has a license plate
- Consider wearing a helmet for added safety
- By staying well informed, you can avoid disappointment and enjoy your e-scooter with peace of mind.
Looking ahead: the future of e-scooters in the Netherlands
The legalization of electric scooters marks a turning point in Dutch mobility policy. Electric scooters are ideal for short trips in urban areas and offer a sustainable alternative to cars. Cities are expected to increasingly adapt to this new form of transport, with more charging points, wider bike paths, and tailored traffic rules. We are at the beginning of a mobility revolution where sustainability, flexibility, and technology converge. The electric scooter plays a leading role in this transformation.