E-Scooter Information 2026

New Austrian regulations for E-scooters, mobility scooters and electric vehicles from 01 May 2026

This information applies exclusively to vehicles within the following category:

• up to 25 km/h
• up to 600 watts
• so-called E-scooters, small scooters, mini scooters and similar vehicles

Different legal requirements apply to our road-approved vehicles with COC documents or EEC approval, such as 45 km/h models.

These vehicles are registered in the normal way, receive a license plate and may be legally used on public roads according to their vehicle classification.

Since 01 May 2026, new regulations for E-scooters and similar electric vehicles have come into force in Austria.

The Austrian Federal Ministry for Innovation, Mobility and Infrastructure (BMIMI) published official guidance on 26 May 2026.

According to the current regulations, an E-scooter is considered a separate vehicle category and must meet the following requirements:

• single-track vehicle
• no seat
• maximum design speed of 25 km/h
• maximum power output of 600 watts
• handlebar and standing platform
• maximum outer wheel diameter of 300 mm

Additional requirements for E-scooters from 01 May 2026 include:

• helmet required for riders under 16 years of age
• bell or acoustic warning device
• turn indicators mounted at the ends of the handlebars
• alcohol limit of 0.5‰
• no passengers allowed
• transport of goods generally prohibited, except for small personal items carried in a suitable bag or container

Important

These regulations mainly apply to vehicles without road approval.

Our vehicles with:

• COC documents
• EEC approval
• license plate requirement
• 45 km/h registration

are subject to different legal requirements and are registered as regular road vehicles.

Vehicles with Seats, Mobility Scooters and Senior Mobility Vehicles

According to the official BMIMI guidance, E-scooters are explicitly defined as single-track vehicles without a seat.

Vehicles equipped with a seat therefore do not fall under the new E-scooter definition.

According to BMIMI, multi-track electrically powered vehicles, such as certain mobility scooters, may still be classified as bicycles if they have a rated continuous power output of no more than 250 watts and a design speed of no more than 25 km/h.

If these requirements are exceeded, the vehicle is generally classified as a motor vehicle rather than a bicycle.

This means that stronger mobility scooters, senior mobility vehicles and three- or four-wheel electric vehicles may be subject to different legal requirements.

E-Mopeds from 01 October 2026

Special regulations will apply to so-called E-mopeds from 01 October 2026.

Certain single-track electric vehicles without pedals, as well as some pedal-equipped vehicles with a throttle, may be classified as motor vehicles.

The following may then become mandatory:

• vehicle registration
• license plate
• insurance
• driving licence
• helmet requirement
• use on public roads only

Regional Interpretation and Individual Assessment

BMIMI explicitly states that enforcement of Austrian road traffic legislation is the responsibility of the individual federal states.

Therefore, the ministry cannot provide legally binding decisions for individual vehicle models. The final assessment is made by the responsible regional authority.

For this reason, we strongly recommend contacting your local authority if you are unsure whether a particular vehicle may be used in public traffic.

Current Enforcement Activities

According to current media reports, Austrian authorities are carrying out increased inspections of E-scooters.

Inspections currently focus mainly on:

• turn indicators
• lighting equipment
• maximum speed
• technical compliance
• use on sidewalks and cycle paths

At present, many inspections appear to focus on information and education. However, penalties may still be imposed where violations are identified.

Official Information Sources

Official information from the Austrian Federal Ministry for Innovation, Mobility and Infrastructure (BMIMI):
BMIMI – New Rules for E-Scooters, E-Bikes and E-Mopeds

Official Austrian Government Information Portal:
oesterreich.gv.at – E-Scooters, Quads and Similar Vehicles

Information Sheet from the Austrian Federal Economic Chamber (WKO):
WKO – E-Bikes, E-Scooters and E-Mopeds

Important Disclaimer

All information provided without guarantee.

The legal situation may change at any time due to amendments in legislation, official interpretations or court decisions.

In case of doubt, the final legal assessment of a vehicle is made exclusively by the competent authorities.