Can a 12-Year-Old Ride an Electric Scooter in the UK?

Electric scooters have become a common sight across the UK, especially since the Covid-19 pandemic. Many people see them as an eco-friendly, cost-effective, and fun alternative to cars or public transport. With this rise in popularity, parents are increasingly asking whether their children can also enjoy the benefits of riding an e-scooter. One of the most common questions is: can a 12-year-old legally ride an electric scooter in the UK?

The answer is not as simple as yes or no—it depends on where the scooter is being used and the current legal framework. Let’s take a closer look at the rules, safety considerations, and the future of e-scooters for younger riders.

Current Legal Status of Electric Scooters in the UK

Under current UK law, privately owned electric scooters are not permitted for use on public roads, pavements, cycle paths, or other public spaces. The reason for this is that e-scooters are legally classified as Personal Light Electric Vehicles (PLEVs). This classification places them in the same category as mopeds or small motor vehicles, meaning they would need to meet requirements such as road tax, MOT testing, insurance, and even displaying a number plate.

Because these requirements cannot currently be met by consumer e-scooters, they remain illegal to use in public. The only exception is when the scooter is being ridden on private property with the landowner’s permission. For example, children may use them in a private garden, a driveway, or other off-road areas, as long as it is not accessible to the public.

The Role of Government E-Scooter Trials

Since 2020, the UK government has been running rental e-scooter trials in several towns and cities. These trials were launched in response to increasing demand for sustainable transport and the need for alternatives during the pandemic. Rental scooters under these trials can legally be used on roads and cycle lanes, but they cannot be ridden on pavements or motorways.

To take part in these trials, riders must be at least 16 years old and must hold either a full or provisional UK driving licence with a category Q entitlement. This requirement means that children, including 12-year-olds, are not allowed to participate in the scheme. The trials are designed for older teens and adults to help the government collect data on usage, safety, and the wider impact of e-scooter adoption.

Can a 12-Year-Old Ride an E-Scooter Legally?

At the moment, the law is very clear: a 12-year-old cannot legally ride an electric scooter in public spaces anywhere in the UK. Riding on pavements, roads, or cycle lanes is strictly prohibited for privately owned scooters, regardless of age. The only scenario where a 12-year-old can ride an e-scooter is on private land, and even then, it should be done with parental supervision and appropriate safety equipment.

This legal restriction often surprises parents, especially as many e-scooter manufacturers advertise smaller, lower-powered models as suitable for children aged eight and above. While these scooters may be marketed towards younger riders, it is important to remember that the manufacturer’s age recommendation does not override UK law. The legal restrictions apply equally to all motorised scooters, regardless of size or speed.

Why Are E-Scooters Restricted for Children?

The decision to restrict e-scooter use for under-16s is largely based on safety concerns. Even entry-level e-scooters can reach speeds of up to 15.5mph (25km/h), which can be dangerous for inexperienced or younger riders when sharing space with pedestrians or vehicles.

E-scooters also require a certain level of balance, awareness, and road safety knowledge. Children may lack the maturity to react appropriately to sudden hazards, making accidents more likely. The UK government is therefore cautious about lowering the legal age for riders, preferring to first gather evidence from the rental trials before considering any changes to the law.

Could the Law Change in the Future?

There is a strong possibility that e-scooter laws will change in the coming years. The UK government has already extended its rental e-scooter trials until May 2026, giving local authorities more time to gather data on their safety, popularity, and environmental benefits.

If the trials are deemed successful, privately owned e-scooters could eventually be legalised for public use. However, it is likely that strict regulations would be introduced, such as minimum age requirements, mandatory helmets, and maximum speed limits. Whether children under 16 would be included in these changes remains uncertain.

Safety Tips for Parents Considering E-Scooters

Although children cannot ride e-scooters in public spaces, many parents still consider buying them for private use. If you are thinking about purchasing an e-scooter for a 12-year-old, here are some important safety tips to keep in mind:

• Always ensure your child wears a properly fitted helmet, along with knee and elbow pads.

• Limit use strictly to private property, away from roads and public pathways.

• Supervise your child while they are riding to reduce the risk of accidents.

• Teach them basic traffic awareness, even when riding on private land, to instill good habits for the future.

• Consider a non-motorised kick scooter for use in public areas, as these are legal and safe alternatives.

Conclusion

E-scooters are an exciting and environmentally friendly form of transport, but the law in the UK is clear: a 12-year-old cannot legally ride an electric scooter on public roads, pavements, or cycle paths. The only setting where it is allowed is on private land with the owner’s permission, and even then, safety should always be the top priority.

As the government continues to run trials and explore the future of micro-mobility, the laws may evolve. For now, however, e-scooters remain restricted to older riders, and parents should carefully consider the legal and safety implications before allowing children to use them.

If you’re interested in exploring safe and high-quality electric scooters for adults and older teens, you can visit https://www.iscooterglobal.co.uk to browse the latest models and get more information.