Are Electric Scooters Legal in Spain? | Complete Guide to Electric Scooter Spain DGT Law

Electric scooters, or vehículos de movilidad personal (VMPs), have become an increasingly popular way to navigate Spanish cities, offering a convenient, eco-friendly alternative to cars and public transport. However, not every scooter is automatically legal to ride — the Dirección General de Tráfico (DGT) has set specific rules to ensure safety and proper use. Understanding these regulations is essential for residents and visitors alike, especially for EU travelers who may bring scooters from other countries. In this guide, we’ll explore what defines a legal electric scooter in Spain, where you can ride, the required certifications, and upcoming changes that every rider should know.

Are Electric Scooters Legal in Spain?

Electric scooters are legal in Spain as long as they meet the rules set by the DGT. Only scooters classified as vehículos de movilidad personal (VMPs) — usually one-person, electric-powered vehicles with a maximum design speed of 25 km/h — can be used on public roads and cycle lanes. Scooters that exceed these limits or are used in prohibited areas, like sidewalks or motorways, are not allowed. Following these rules ensures safe and legal riding in Spanish cities.

For riders looking for a fully compliant option from iScooter, the i9Ultra is a DGT-approved electric scooter that meets all VMP requirements. With a top speed of 25 km/h, a robust electric motor, and reliable safety features, it’s an excellent choice for navigating Spanish streets legally and comfortably.

What the DGT Defines as an Electric Scooter (VMP)

Understanding how the DGT classifies electric scooters is essential for anyone looking to ride legally in Spain. The authority defines these vehicles as vehículos de movilidad personal (VMPs), which are typically one-person, electric-powered scooters with a maximum design speed of 25 km/h. This classification ensures that scooters meet safety standards suitable for urban streets and cycle lanes.

Certification Requirements for New Models

To maintain safety and standardization, all new electric scooter models sold in Spain from 22 January 2024 must have official certification confirming that they meet the DGT’s technical requirements. This certification guarantees that the scooter complies with national safety regulations, including speed limits, braking systems, and structural standards.

Transition Rules for Older Models

Scooters marketed before 22 January 2024 are allowed to circulate under transition rules until 22 January 2027. During this period, older models can continue to be used even if they were not initially certified, giving riders time to upgrade or replace their scooters in compliance with the new regulations.

Relevance for EU Users

For EU residents or visitors, these regulations are particularly important. Electric scooters purchased in other European countries must meet Spain’s VMP requirements to be legally used on public roads and cycle lanes. Ensuring your scooter complies with these standards helps avoid fines and guarantees a safe, legal riding experience across Spanish cities.

Where You Can Ride an Electric Scooter in Spain

Before taking your electric scooter out on Spanish streets, it’s important to know exactly where you are allowed to ride. Spain’s regulations, set by the DGT, specify which areas are safe and legal for VMPs, as well as zones where scooters are prohibited. In addition, local municipalities may have their own rules regarding speed limits, helmet use, and age restrictions. Understanding these guidelines helps ensure a safe and compliant riding experience.

Allowed Areas

Electric scooters are generally allowed on cycle lanes and low-speed urban streets, typically those with speed limits up to 30 km/h. These areas provide a safe environment for riders while allowing them to share the road responsibly with other vehicles.

Prohibited Areas

Scooters are prohibited on sidewalks, pedestrian zones, motorways, and tunnels in urban areas. Riding in these locations poses safety risks and can result in fines or other penalties.

Municipal Variations

Local municipalities may introduce additional rules that affect where and how scooters can be used. These can include lower speed limits, mandatory helmet use, or minimum age requirements. Riders should always check local regulations before riding, as they can vary from one city to another.

What Are the Rider Rules and Safety Requirements for Electric Scooters in Spain?

Riding an electric scooter safely in Spain requires following both national and local rules. The DGT has established clear guidelines to protect riders and pedestrians, and compliance is essential to avoid fines or accidents.

Single Rider and Age Restrictions

Electric scooters are designed for one person only. Carrying passengers is not permitted and can be dangerous. Additionally, municipalities may set minimum age requirements for riders, which can vary from city to city. Always check local rules before riding to ensure you meet age restrictions.

Safety Gear

Safety equipment is crucial for legal and safe riding. Helmets may be mandatory in certain municipalities, while in others they are recommended. Scooters must also be equipped with proper lighting and reflectors to ensure visibility, especially when riding at night or in low-light conditions.

Behavior Rules

Riders must adhere to responsible behavior at all times. Using a mobile phone, listening to music with headphones, or riding under the influence of alcohol or drugs is prohibited. Following these rules helps prevent accidents and keeps both riders and pedestrians safe.

Fines and Penalties

Non-compliance with rider rules can lead to fines and other penalties. This includes riding in prohibited areas, carrying passengers, or ignoring safety gear requirements. Staying informed and following regulations ensures a safe, legal, and worry-free riding experience across Spanish cities.

What Are the Speed, Power, and Classification Rules for Electric Scooters in Spain?

Understanding how speed and power affect your electric scooter’s classification is essential for riding legally in Spain. The DGT sets clear limits to ensure that scooters are safe for urban use and compatible with traffic regulations.

Maximum Design Speed

To qualify as a vehículo de movilidad personal (VMP), an electric scooter must have a maximum design speed of 25 km/h. Scooters that exceed this speed are no longer considered standard VMPs and may be subject to stricter rules.

Vehicle Classification

Scooters that surpass the speed, weight, or power limits may be classified as motor vehicles rather than VMPs. This classification brings additional requirements, such as registration, insurance, and potentially a driver’s license, depending on the specific vehicle type.

Importance of Meeting DGT Standards

Ensuring your scooter complies with the DGT’s speed and power limits is crucial for legal riding. Following these standards not only avoids fines and penalties but also guarantees that the scooter is safe for urban streets, cycle lanes, and other allowed areas.

Do You Need Insurance and Registration for an Electric Scooter in Spain?

Many riders wonder whether they need insurance or registration to ride an electric scooter legally in Spain. Understanding the current rules and upcoming changes helps both residents and EU visitors stay compliant and avoid fines while riding safely.

Current status (2025)

As of 2025, most electric scooters classified as vehículos de movilidad personal (VMPs) in Spain do not require registration or insurance. Riders can use certified scooters on public roads and cycle lanes without needing additional documentation, provided they follow all DGT and local regulations.

Upcoming changes (from 2 January 2026)

Starting 2 January 2026, new rules will apply to electric scooters in Spain:

• Mandatory civil liability insurance: All scooters must have insurance to cover potential damages or accidents.
  

• Registration with DGT: Scooters will need to be registered, either with an identification plate or a QR code, to ensure traceability and legal compliance.
  

• Scope and exceptions: These requirements will apply based on vehicle weight, speed, and classification, so not all scooters may be affected in the same way.
  

Implications for EU visitors

For EU residents or visitors, it’s important to note that scooters legal in other European countries may not automatically meet Spanish VMP standards. After 2026, riders will also need to verify that their scooter has the required insurance and registration to be legally used in Spain.

What Local Considerations and Municipal Rules Affect Electric Scooter Use in Spain?

While national regulations set by the DGT provide the framework for electric scooter use, local municipalities can introduce additional rules that affect where and how you ride. Being aware of these local variations is essential for staying compliant and avoiding fines.

Examples of City-Specific Rules

Different cities in Spain have their own specific regulations for electric scooters. For example:

• Barcelona: Helmets are mandatory for all riders, and scooters are prohibited on sidewalks and certain pedestrian zones. Speed limits on urban streets may also be enforced lower than the national maximum.
  

• Madrid: Certain streets and cycle lanes are designated for scooter use only, and local rules may require riders to be a minimum age of 15. Helmets may be recommended or mandatory depending on the zone.
  

• Valencia: Electric scooters must follow speed limits in pedestrian-heavy areas, and some parks or tourist zones may restrict scooter access entirely.
  

How Local Ordinances May Affect Riding

Municipal ordinances can influence your scooter experience in several ways, including where you can ride, maximum speed limits, helmet requirements, and age restrictions. Riders should always check the specific rules of the city they are in to ensure full compliance with local regulations.

How Can You Retrofit Your Electric Scooter for Safety and Legal Compliance?

Upgrading your electric scooter with safety accessories is an effective way to ensure it meets legal requirements and provides a safer riding experience. Retrofitting is especially important for older models that may not include modern safety features.

Adding Lights, Reflectors, and Blinkers

Proper lighting and visibility are essential for safe riding, particularly at night or in low-light conditions. Adding front and rear lights, reflectors, and blinkers helps make your scooter more visible to other road users and ensures compliance with DGT safety standards. Some cities may even require these features for scooters used on public roads and cycle lanes.

Upgrading Older Models to Comply with DGT Standards

For scooters marketed before 22 January 2024, retrofitting can help bring them closer to the technical standards required for certification. This may include upgrading brakes, installing approved lighting, or adding safety accessories such as reflectors and blinkers. These improvements not only enhance safety but also help riders remain legally compliant during the transition period before 22 January 2027.

What Are the Key Takeaways for EU Users and Visitors?

Riding an electric scooter in Spain requires understanding both national and local rules. Following these key points will help EU residents and visitors stay safe and compliant.

Ensure Your Scooter Meets VMP Requirements

Before riding, make sure your electric scooter qualifies as a vehículo de movilidad personal (VMP). This includes being a one-person, electric-powered vehicle with a maximum design speed of 25 km/h and, for newer models, having the required DGT certification.

Ride Only in Allowed Areas and Follow Safety Rules

Always ride on cycle lanes or low-speed urban streets and avoid sidewalks, pedestrian zones, motorways, and tunnels in urban areas. Follow safety guidelines such as wearing a helmet where required, using lights and reflectors, and avoiding distractions while riding.

Check Local Municipal Regulations Before Riding

Local city councils can set additional rules that may affect speed limits, helmet requirements, and minimum age. Always verify the regulations of the city you are riding in to ensure full compliance and avoid fines.

Conclusion

Electric scooters can be a fun and efficient way to get around Spain, but legality comes with responsibilities. To ride safely and avoid fines, your scooter must meet the DGT’s classification as a VMP, comply with technical standards, and be used in designated areas. Additionally, with mandatory insurance and registration set to take effect in 2026, staying informed about national and local regulations is more important than ever. By following these rules, both residents and EU visitors can enjoy the benefits of electric scooters while keeping themselves and others safe on the road.

FAQs

Will the police stop me on an electric scooter?

Yes, police in Spain can stop electric scooter riders to check for compliance with the DGT regulations. They may verify that your scooter meets the VMP requirements, that you are riding in allowed areas, and that you are following safety rules such as wearing a helmet where required. Riding outside the rules or in prohibited areas increases the likelihood of being stopped and fined.

Can you legally drive an electric scooter on the road?

Yes, you can legally ride an electric scooter on certain roads in Spain, such as cycle lanes and low-speed urban streets, as long as your scooter meets the DGT’s VMP requirements. Riding on sidewalks, pedestrian zones, motorways, or in prohibited areas is not allowed and can result in fines.

Do you need a license for a scooter in Spain?

No, you do not need a license to ride a standard electric scooter classified as a VMP in Spain. However, the scooter must comply with DGT regulations, including the maximum design speed of 25 km/h. Scooters that exceed speed or power limits may be classified as motor vehicles, which could require a license.

Can I use a foreign electric scooter legally in Spain?

Yes, you can use a foreign electric scooter in Spain only if it meets the DGT’s VMP requirements. This means it must be a one-person, electric-powered vehicle with a maximum design speed of 25 km/h and comply with any local regulations. Scooters that do not meet these standards may be prohibited and could result in fines.