Electric kick scooter in Switzerland: licence and traffic rules

The electric kick scooter is classed as a "light moped" without a seat. Licence, age and traffic rules at a glance.

M licence from age 14 to 15, no licence from age 16

An electric kick scooter whose motor power does not exceed 0.50 kW and whose assisted speed does not exceed 20 km/h is ridden with the special category M licence between age 14 and 15. From age 16, no licence is required for this same vehicle.

Technically, the ordinance classifies the electric kick scooter as the "seatless" variant of the light moped - the slow electric bike is the "with seat" variant, with the same licensing regime (see the dedicated electric bike page).

Where can you ride it?

A type-approved electric kick scooter follows the same traffic rules as a light moped: cycle paths and cycle lanes are mandatory where they exist, otherwise the roadway. Riding on the pavement is not permitted for this type of motorised vehicle.

Helmet: recommended, not mandatory

Unlike the fast moped (fast electric bike, 45 km/h), wearing a helmet is not mandatory for an electric kick scooter limited to 20 km/h, but it remains recommended.

Non-type-approved kick scooters

These rules concern electric kick scooters approved for road traffic (with a technical data sheet complying with the OETV). A non-approved device, sold as a toy or leisure item, is not permitted on public roads, regardless of the rider's age.