✨ Introduction
Electric scooters (e-scooters) have become an integral part of the German cityscape. However, many users are unaware that they must comply with certain legal regulations when using them. One of the most common mistakes is riding an e-scooter without valid insurance. In this article, we explain the penalties you face, why insurance is so important, and how you can protect yourself.
⚠️ Is insurance for e-scooters mandatory in Germany?
Yes, according to the Small Electric Vehicles Ordinance (eKFV), all e-scooters with a maximum permissible speed between 6 km/h and 20 km/h must have liability insurance. This insurance requirement applies regardless of whether the scooter is used for private or business purposes.
Which vehicles are affected?
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E-scooter with road approval
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Rental e-scooters
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Private e-scooters with a design speed of up to 20 km/h
Not affected are:
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E-scooters that travel slower than 6 km/h (e.g. toys)
🚫 What happens if you drive without insurance?
Riding an e-scooter without insurance is a criminal offense in Germany , not just an administrative offense.
Possible consequences:
| offense | consequence |
|---|---|
| Driving without insurance | Fine or imprisonment for up to 1 year |
| No insurance number plate on the e-scooter | Fine of up to 40 € |
| Recurrence | Higher penalties, possibly driving ban |
⛔️ Real cases from practice
Case study 1: A 22-year-old man was stopped by police in Berlin. He was riding a private e-scooter without an insurance license plate. The result: He was charged with a violation of the Compulsory Insurance Act and initiated criminal proceedings.
Case study 2: In Munich, police inspected more than 100 e-scooters in spring 2024. 18 riders had no insurance. Investigations were initiated against all of them.
📆 What rules will apply in 2025?
The color of the insurance license plate for e-scooters changes every year. In 2025, the color will be green , meaning all riders will need a green license plate starting March 1, 2025. Otherwise, they risk fines or more.
✅ How to properly insure your e-scooter
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Select an insurer : Many traditional insurers (e.g. HUK, Allianz, ADAC) offer e-scooter insurance.
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Take out insurance online : Most insurance policies can be taken out online.
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Receive license plate : After signing the contract, you will receive an adhesive license plate.
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Attach license plates visibly : Usually at the rear of the frame or under the tail light.
How much does the insurance cost?
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Average: approx. 20 - 50 € per year
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Depends on the provider and scope of services
📈 Infographic: Fines at a glance
"Driving without insurance = criminal offense"
+-------------------------------+
| Vergehen | Bußgeld / Strafe |
+-------------------------------+
| Kein Kennzeichen | bis 40 € Bußgeld |
| Kein Versicherungsschutz | Geld- oder Freiheitsstrafe |
| Wiederholungstäter | Fahrverbot möglich |
+-------------------------------+
🎤 Video tip: "How to properly insure your e-scooter"
Watch our short 3-minute explanatory video, which shows you how to take out insurance in 5 steps and what you need to pay attention to.
References: Wix Studio | Handle, design and scale from one place
📣 Conclusion
Riding an e-scooter without insurance isn't just a risk, it's a real offense. Those without insurance risk heavy fines and possibly even a criminal record. If you want to be on the safe side, you should renew your license plate every year in good time and keep an eye on the regulations.
Tip: Display your new license plate clearly and save the renewal date – March 1st every year!
💬 Do you have any questions or experiences?
Share them with us in the comments or contact our team of experts!
