Do You Need a License to Ride an Electric Scooter in France? | GTXR Official Guide
Electric scooters are one of the fastest-growing modes of transportation in France, offering an eco-friendly and flexible way to navigate busy cities and scenic towns. However, as the popularity of electric scooters rises, many riders find themselves wondering:
Do you need a license to ride an electric scooter in France?
The short answer is: It depends on the type of electric scooter you own. In this complete guide, GTXR breaks down the latest French laws to make sure you ride legally, safely, and confidently.
No License Needed: For Standard Electric Scooters (Trottinettes Électriques)
If your electric scooter meets these conditions, you do not need a driving license:
- Maximum speed of 25 km/h (around 15.5 mph)
- Motor power not exceeding 250W
- Scooter designed for individual transport without a seat
For these types of scooters—like most models available from GTXR—you can ride without needing any driving license. These scooters are intended for short-distance commuting, urban mobility, and recreational use.
However, some conditions still apply:
- Minimum rider age: 14 years old
- Mandatory insurance: You must have at least civil liability insurance (responsabilité civile) to cover damages you could cause to others.
- Mandatory equipment: Your scooter must be fitted with front and rear lights, brakes, a bell, and reflectors.
- Helmet recommendation: Helmets are highly recommended, especially for riders under 18, but not legally required if you're older than 12.
When a License Is Required: Faster and More Powerful Scooters
If your electric scooter exceeds 25 km/h or has a powerful motor, it is classified more like a motorcycle or moped under French law. In this case, a license is mandatory.
Here’s how it breaks down:
- Scooters under 4 kW:
- You need an AM license (formerly called BSR, Brevet de Sécurité Routière).
- The AM license can be obtained from the age of 14 after completing 8 hours of theoretical and practical training.
- Scooters between 4 kW and 11 kW:
- You need an A1 motorcycle license (from age 16)
- Or a B car license + 7 hours of additional training if you already hold a B license.
- Scooters above 11 kW:
- You will need an A2 motorcycle license, obtainable from the age of 18.
Important:
- All scooters falling into these categories must be registered (like a car or motorcycle).
- Riders must also wear an approved helmet and carry insurance coverage that is more extensive than simple civil liability.
Other Important French Regulations for Electric Scooters
Whether or not you need a license, if you're riding an electric scooter in France, you must respect these nationwide rules:
- Riding Areas:
- Electric scooters are allowed only on bike lanes, roadways limited to 50 km/h, or dedicated scooter areas.
- Riding on sidewalks is strictly forbidden, unless pushing the scooter by hand.
- Speed Limits:
- Urban areas: 25 km/h maximum
- Pedestrian areas (if allowed): 6 km/h maximum
- Passenger Transport:
- You cannot carry a passenger. Electric scooters are strictly single-person vehicles.
- Protective Gear:
- At night or during poor visibility, wearing a retro-reflective vest is mandatory.
- Helmets are recommended (mandatory for riders of scooters that require a license).
- Alcohol and Drug Laws:
- Scooter riders are subject to the same DUI laws as drivers.
What This Means for GTXR Riders
If you’re purchasing a GTXR scooter like the GTXR S9 Plus or GTXR DT06, you're most likely choosing a standard electric scooter (25 km/h max, under 250W). That means:
- No license needed
- No registration needed
- Just follow basic road safety laws
However, if GTXR offers or you select a high-performance model exceeding legal thresholds, make sure you obtain the correct license and register your scooter according to French law.
Conclusion: Know Before You Ride
Do you need a license to ride an electric scooter in France?
- For most standard electric scooters (25 km/h max), no license is needed—but you must be at least 14 years old and properly insured.
- For faster and more powerful scooters, a license, registration, and full compliance with motorcycle rules are required.
Before you hit the road, make sure you understand the category of your scooter and local regulations to stay legal, safe, and worry-free.
Explore GTXR’s full range of high-quality, regulation-compliant electric scooters at [GTXRStore.com](https://gtxrstore.com) and ride with confidence—whether you’re commuting to work, exploring city streets, or enjoying a weekend adventure.
Stay safe. Stay smart. Ride GTXR.
