E-Bikes and E-Scooters Information. Know the Law.

Good morning, 

In recent months across the United Kingdom, we have seen a spike in the number of people using e-bikes and e-scooters to commute to places of work, to shops, or just to get around more conveniently. 

At South Wales Police, we are committed to protecting the public from those who are behaving in an anti-social manner using e-bikes and e-scooters, as well bringing those to justice who are using these vehicles to participate in organised crime. We are still working hard to tackle the issues you have raised to us and we have now seized 800 MPVs since August 2025. More information on recent operations can be found on the following link: Police seize 68 illegal e-bikes and scooters in Cardiff crackdown

We have also seen that most people are not aware of the law around the use of e-bikes and e-scooters so we'd like to answer some of the common questions surrounding the use of e-bikes and e-scooters. 

E-scooters

Can I ride an e-scooter on a public road? I bought it from a reputable retailer so what's the issue? 

These and other questions answered below.

Can e-scooters be ridden on public roads?
No – they can only be ridden on private land, with the landowner’s permission.

What about on the pavement or cycle lanes?
Still no. The law says they cannot be used on public places, including roads, pavements, parks or cycle lanes.

So why was I allowed to buy one, if I can’t actually use it?
You are allowed to buy or sell e-scooters, and you can use them on private land (with permission).

Why don’t you work with retailers so that customers know the law before buying?
We are working with retailers to explain the law. But, of course, the buying and selling of e-scooters is allowed. 

E-scooters are much greener and more efficient than some other modes of transport!
This is about the safety of e-scooter users, and other road users – including pedestrians.

Why are e-scooters seen as dangerous?
E-scooters don’t have things such as number plates, signalling ability, and not always visible rear lights. Riders also don’t often have appropriate safety equipment. Other road users may be put at risk.

Isn’t it an issue with motorists, not e-scooter users?
All road users have a responsibility to do so carefully and with respect for others, and our teams do take action against those responsible for illegal driving every day.

Are e-scooters seen as more dangerous than pedal cycles?
E-scooters and pedal cycles are classified differently under the law. As Mechanically Propelled Vehicles (MPVs) or Personal Low Emission Vehicles (PLEVs), the law says e-scooters can’t be used on the road or any other public place.

OK, so what about electric bikes?
Electrically assisted pedal cycles are allowed in public places if they have pedals able to propel it, the electric motor’s power doesn’t exceed a specified limit, electrical assistance cuts out when the vehicle reaches 15.5mph, and the rider is not under 14 years old. All other electric bikes are treated the same way as e-scooters: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/electrically-assisted-pedal-cycles-eapcs/electrically-assisted-pedal-cycles-eapcs-in-great-britain-information-sheet

I heard that scooters that have a maximum speed of 5mph are allowed.
E-scooters have a maximum permissible speed of 15.5mph. There is nothing in legislation permitting the use of e-scooters limited to 5mph on a road or public place.

I’ve seen e-scooters being ridden legally elsewhere – how come?
Some areas in England are undergoing a trial where their use is allowed (but regulated) on public land and roads. No such trials are taking place in Wales: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/e-scooter-trials-guidance-for-users

Are e-scooter users breaking any other laws?
There are numerous potential offences that could potentially be prosecuted, including using a vehicle with no insurance; riding carelessly or dangerously; contravening traffic signals; or for drink/drug-riding.

Am I OK to ride my e-scooter if I have a driving licence?
Technically you need a category Q entitlement to ride an e-scooter, which anyone with a full or provisional licence will have. However, the law still states you cannot ride them on public roads or land. In addition, anyone without a licence can be prosecuted for that offence as well.

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E-bikes

I've seen e-bikes being ridden and no-one has stopped them. Why is mine an issue? 

Clarity on the law regarding different types of e-bikes below.

I'm confused, are there different types of e-bikes? 

Yes. Electrically Assisted Pedal Cycles (EAPCs) must be fitted with pedals that are capable of propelling it, have a maximum continuous power rating via the electric motor not exceeding 250 watts, and all electrical assistance must cut off when the vehicle reaches a speed of 15.5mph.

If in doubt remember PPS – Pedals, Power, Speed. EAPCs can be legally ridden by anyone aged 14+, and do not require vehicle tax, insurance, or a licence.

All other electric bikes are classed as a motorcycle or a moped. Unless used on private land (with the permission of the land-owner), such bikes must be registered with the DVLA, taxed, insured and used by a rider who holds the appropriate class of licence, in order for their use to be legal.

Unless all the above criteria is met, they cannot be used on public land and the rider is liable for prosecution. 

More info: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/electrically-assisted-pedal-cycles-eapcs/electrically-assisted-pedal-cycles-eapcs-in-great-britain-information-sheet

We hope this information helps you should you wish to purchase an e-bike or e-scooter to use in a lawful and safe manner.

Diolch. Thank you