Ireland is introducing new regulations for micro-mobility vehicles, including e-scooters, e-bikes, and e-mopeds, set to take effect on May 20, 2024. These rules aim to enhance road safety while providing clear guidelines for vehicle use. Below is a comprehensive breakdown of these new regulations based on official sources, including the RSA (Road Safety Authority) and the Irish government.

E-Scooters

E-scooters are divided into two categories: low-power and high-power.

Low-Power E-Scooters

• Max Power: 400W

• Max Speed: 20km/h

• Weight Limit: 25kg

• Minimum Age: 16

• Road Usage: Allowed on cycle lanes, bus lanes, local, regional, and national roads.

• Helmet & Safety Gear: Strongly advised.

• License, Tax, and Insurance: Not required.

• Footpath Usage: Prohibited.

• Motorway Usage: Prohibited.

High-Power E-Scooters

• Power Output: Above 400W

• Speed: Exceeds 20km/h

• Legal Status: Not permitted for public road use.

E-Bikes

E-bikes are categorized based on their power and speed capabilities.

Standard E-Bikes (Pedelecs)

• Max Power: 250W

• Max Speed: 25km/h

• Pedalling Required: Yes

• Road Usage: Allowed on cycle lanes, bus lanes, local, regional, and national roads.

• Helmet & Safety Gear: Strongly advised.

• License, Tax, and Insurance: Not required.

• Footpath Usage: Prohibited.

• Motorway Usage: Prohibited.

E-Mopeds

E-mopeds fall under two classifications: L1e-A (low-power) and L1e-B (high-power).

L1e-A E-Mopeds (Powered Cycles & Throttle Bikes)

• Max Power: 1kW

• Max Speed: 25km/h

• License Required: AM category

• Helmet Requirement: Mandatory

• Registration & Tax: Required

• Insurance: Throttle bikes require insurance if over 25kg and exceeding 14km/h.

• Road Usage: Allowed on cycle lanes, bus lanes, local, regional, and national roads.

• Footpath Usage: Prohibited.

• Motorway Usage: Prohibited.

L1e-B E-Mopeds (Speed Pedelecs/Standard Mopeds)

• Max Power: 4kW

• Max Speed: 45km/h

• License Required: AM category

• Helmet Requirement: Mandatory

• Registration, Tax & Insurance: Required

• Road Usage: Allowed on local, regional, and national roads.

• Cycle Lane & Bus Lane Usage: Prohibited.

• Motorway Usage: Prohibited.

Key Takeaways

1. E-scooters and standard e-bikes are now legal on Irish roads, provided they meet power and speed restrictions.

2. High-power e-scooters remain illegal on public roads.

3. E-mopeds require registration, insurance, and a license, depending on their category.

4. Helmets and high-visibility clothing are strongly advised for all users.

5. Footpath use is prohibited for all micro-mobility vehicles.

These regulations provide clear guidelines for users, ensuring safer and more structured micro-mobility usage across Ireland. With the rising popularity of e-mobility solutions, these rules will help integrate these vehicles into the transport system responsibly.

For full details, visit the RSA website or the Government of Ireland’s e-mobility section.

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