Are Electric Scooters Legal in Madrid?

By Alice Nichols

Electric scooters have become an increasingly popular mode of transportation in recent years. They are convenient, cost-effective, and eco-friendly.

However, if you’re planning to ride an electric scooter in Madrid, you need to be aware of the laws and regulations surrounding them. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at whether electric scooters are legal in Madrid.

What is an Electric Scooter?

Before we dive into the legality of electric scooters in Madrid, let’s first define what they are. An electric scooter is a two-wheeled vehicle powered by an electric motor. They typically have a range of around 20-30 kilometers and can reach speeds of up to 25 km/h.

The Legal Situation in Madrid

In Madrid, electric scooters fall under the same category as bicycles. This means that they can be ridden on bike lanes and on the road. However, there are some restrictions that you need to be aware of.

Firstly, you need to be over 16 years old to ride an electric scooter in Madrid. Additionally, you must wear a helmet when riding one. It’s also worth noting that you cannot ride electric scooters on sidewalks or pedestrian areas.

Are Electric Scooter Rental Services Legal?

Electric scooter rental services have become increasingly popular in cities around the world and Madrid is no exception. Companies such as Lime and Voi offer rental services for electric scooters in the city.

However, it’s important to note that not all rental services are legal in Madrid. In September 2019, the city council introduced new regulations for companies offering rental services for electric vehicles such as scooters and bicycles.

Under these regulations, companies must obtain a license from the city council before operating within the city limits. Additionally, there are restrictions on where these vehicles can be parked and how many can be rented out at any given time.

The Bottom Line

Electric scooters are legal in Madrid, but there are some restrictions that you need to be aware of. You must be over 16 years old, wear a helmet when riding, and cannot ride on sidewalks or pedestrian areas. If you’re planning to use a rental service, make sure that the company has obtained a license from the city council.

Overall, electric scooters can be a great way to get around Madrid. Just make sure that you follow the rules and regulations to ensure that you stay safe and avoid any legal issues.