Understanding the law around e-bikes and e-scooters can help keep you and others safe.
Different rules apply depending on the type of vehicle and where it’s being used.
Taking e-bikes and e-scooters on the Transport for London network
Electric vehicles are restricted on parts of the Transport for London (TfL) network due to the fire risk associated with lithium-ion batteries.
- E-scooters are not allowed on any TfL services, even when folded.
- Non-folding e-bikes are banned on most TfL rail services, including the Underground, Overground, Elizabeth line and DLR. This includes standard bikes that have been converted to e-bikes.
- Folding e-bikes may still be permitted on some parts of the TfL network.
These restrictions were introduced following incidents involving e-bike battery fires on the transport network.
You should always check TfL guidance before travelling with an e-bike.
E-bike fire in Sutton.
Speed limits for e-bikes
To be legally classed as an electrically assisted pedal cycle (EAPC) in the UK, an e-bike must meet certain requirements.
These include:
- The motor must have a maximum continuous power output of 250 watts
- Electric assistance must cut off at 15.5mph (25km/h)
- The bike must have working pedals that propel the bike
If your e-bike exceeds these limits, it may legally be treated as a moped or motorcycle, meaning registration, insurance and a driving licence are all needed for it to be used on the road.
Where you can ride an e-bike
If an e-bike meets UK EAPC regulations, it is treated the same as a normal bicycle.
This means it can usually be ridden:
- on roads
- in cycle lanes
- on cycle tracks
- on routes where standard bicycles are permitted
However, the same cycling rules apply.
Riding on pavements is generally not allowed unless a cycle path is clearly marked.
Riding e-scooters in public
Privately owned e-scooters cannot usually be used on public roads, pavements or cycle lanes in the UK. They can only be used on private land with the landowner’s permission.
Rental e-scooters are allowed in some London boroughs, but riders must follow local rules and licensing requirements.
Using an e-scooter illegally in public can result in fines, penalty points and the vehicle being seized.
Minimum age for riders
The minimum age to ride an e-bike on public roads in the UK is 14 years old.
For rental e-scooters riders typically must be at least 16 years old and hold a valid provisional or full UK driving licence.
Do you have to wear a helmet?
There is no legal requirement to wear a helmet when riding an e-bike that meets UK EAPC regulations.
However, we strongly recommend you wear a helmet to reduce the risk of serious head injury.
Carrying passengers or children
Most e-bikes are designed for a single rider.
Carrying passengers may:
- affect the stability of the bike
- increase braking distance
- put additional strain on the battery and motor
If you carry a child on a bike, you should use an approved child seat or trailer designed for bicycles.
Children should never ride as passengers on e-scooters.