E-scooter warning as ‘thousands are openly breaking law’ | UK | News

Nine out of 10 inspections of e-scooter retailers uncovered devices being sold unlawfully, according to Government statistics. The AA declared that e-scooter regulations are either “misunderstood” or “thousands of people are openly breaking the law”.

A total of 42 out of 47 visits to e-scooter sellers by Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA) officials in the year ending in April 2025 revealed the devices were being sold either illegally or without adequate guidance regarding legal restrictions.

The statistics were disclosed by transport minister Simon Lightwood following a parliamentary written question. Mr Lightwood blamed the high rate on “poor levels of compliance being found in the online marketplace”.

He said: “In that year, DVSA’s market surveillance unit looked into higher proportions sold in online markets due to apparent shifts in the way such items are sold.”

Regulations for e-scooter use in the UK

Some 41 out of 58 inspections discovered e-scooters being sold unlawfully in 2023/24, whilst 79 out of 93 inspections in 2022/23 found similar violations. Privately owned e-scooters in the UK may only be used legally on private property, but have become a familiar sight across many urban centres.

Under consumer legislation, retailers selling e-scooters must provide guidance explaining how their usage is regulated. Authorised rental e-scooter schemes continue to operate in numerous towns and cities throughout England.

These e-scooters incorporate safety measures, including a top speed limit of 12.5mph, a maximum weight of 55kg when unoccupied, and a compulsory bell or horn. AA president Edmund King described it as “reassuring” that the DVSA was “actively investigating” e-scooter sales.

He continued: “The only e-scooters allowed legally on public roads in England are those involved in the Government’s 18 approved trials. However, either that message is misunderstood or thousands of people are openly breaking the law, as the sight of non-rental e-scooters on the roads is a common occurrence.

“The recently published road safety strategy says the Department for Transport is gathering evidence through the extended trials, implementing strict safety regulations, and preparing for potential future legislation.

“The sooner legislation is introduced governing the safe design, top speeds and use of e-scooters the better, as currently the uncertainty amongst the public and with retailers is leading to dangerous products used unsafely on highways.”