The terms electric scooter, e-scooter and e-trottinet are often mixed in everyday life. Legally, the actual vehicle category counts. Therefore, check the model offered and the vehicle documents before you conclude that you are allowed to use them from a model name.
25 km/h with seat and 20 km/h without seat
For light motorcycles, the ASTRA calls an electric drive up to 25 km/h for vehicles with seating. Without a seat, for example at the e-scooter, the border is 20 km/h. The light category includes other requirements, including not more than 0,5 kW of engine power and not more than 250 kg of total weight. The speed indication alone is therefore not sufficient for classification.
The most important rules for light electric scooters
| Question | Basic rule |
|---|---|
| Driver's card | From 14 years category M; from 16 years without driver's card. |
| Control plate | Not required for this category of vehicle. |
| Helmet | Not mandatory, but recommended. |
| Light | Also turn on during the day. |
| Transport area | In principle, like bikes; Use cycle paths and bike lanes where required. Ordinary trottoirs are not allowed. |
Local signals and the concrete vehicle design remain to be observed. A helmet is also useful where there is no obligation.
Drive for two: check equipment
A long seat alone is not a confirmation for a second person. The scooter must be equipped for the additional person; in particular, appropriate seating and foot support options and the permissible load must be taken into account. If you're under 16 years of age, don't bring anyone along. Determine the intended number of persons using the vehicle documentation.
Separately classify faster scooters
The rules above do not apply on a flat-rate basis to higher-speed models or to other categories of vehicles. There may be a control plate, a different driving licence, insurance and helmet required. Our contribution to the driver's card helps with the next questions. The Road Transport Office is responsible for a binding classification.
Your documents before the first trip
- Hold on to exact model designation and design.
- To clarify the vehicle class, performance and speed using the documentation.
- Check the driving licence and, where appropriate, the registration.
- Discuss insurance cover for the specific vehicle with the insurer.
- Check brakes, lights, tyres and the intended loading.
Changes in speed, performance or safety-relevant components can change the legal classification and operational safety. Let open questions before a remodeling be handled professionally.
At Meinroller in Dietikon, we will discuss the version offered and the documents with you. If you have any questions about an existing vehicle, bring your model name and documentation as far as possible.
Technical basis: ASTRA – Requirements for the approval and operation of motor bikes, Stand 1. July 2025. Editorial team: Meinroller.ch · Updated 3 October 2026.
Technical basis: Canton of Zurich – Electric trend vehicles. Editorial team: Meinroller.ch · Updated 3 October 2026.
Personally clarified in Dietikon
Meinroller.ch combines consulting, sales and its own workshop at Rapidplatz 3 in 8953 Dietikon. Give us your model and your concern so that we can coordinate the next step with you.