E-scooters in Italy 2025: What you need to know before you travel
Shocking figures characterize Italy's e-scooter scene: 21 people lost their lives in e-scooter accidents in 2023 – more than twice as many as in 2021. With around 55.000 rental scooters in cities and over 3.400 accidents, the alarm bells are ringing for the authorities.
Time for change, the Italian government thought, and acted: New regulations are intended to ensure greater safety starting in 2025. Mandatory helmets, indicators, brake lights – the list of requirements is growing. Experts expect these measures to curb e-scooter use by up to 70 percent.
Are you planning a trip to Italy and want to use an e-scooter? This guide will show you exactly what you need to keep in mind. Learn the most important rules and enjoy your city tours relaxed and safely on two wheels.
The new e-scooter rules in Italy from 2025
Attention! Italy is getting serious about e-scooter safety. After six fatal accidents in Rome alone in the last two years, stricter rules are now coming for everyone—locals and tourists alike. Let's take a look at the most important changes.
Helmets are compulsory for all drivers
The helmet will become a faithful companion! From 2025 onwards, it will be: No e-scooter without head protectionThis rule applies to every rider – no matter how old you are or how far you plan to ride. Anyone who forgets their helmet will be fined €50. Sounds harsh? True! But your head will thank you.
Compulsory insurance and labeling
You have two further obligations:
- A clearly visible license plate on the e-scooter
- A valid liability insurance in your pocket
You may already be familiar with these rules from Germany. Insurance protects you and others in the event of an accident, while license plate numbers help identify rogue drivers more quickly.
Technical requirements: indicators and brake lights
Your e-scooter will need to be properly equipped in the future: Working indicators and brake lights will be mandatory. These extras ensure that others can see you better. Without these features, the wheels will stop moving – no exceptions!
fines for violations
The Italian authorities are serious about the penalties:
- Helmet or insurance reluctant people have to pay
- Missing indicators or brake lights cost
- Cell phone on the handlebars? At least 250 euros fine
- Alcohol and e-scooters? Absolutely no-go!
Good to know: You're still allowed to drive at a maximum of 20 km/h, but only on roads with a speed limit of 50 km/h. Outside of built-up areas, e-scooters must remain parked, and random parking on sidewalks is prohibited.
These rules are part of a larger safety package – understandable given that over 3.000 road deaths are expected in 2023. Follow them, and you can enjoy your Italian e-scooter tour in peace!
Differences to the German e-scooter regulations
Are you familiar with the German e-scooter regulations? Great! But in Italy, things are a little different. Let's explore the key differences together so you're well prepared.
Comparison of speed limits
Good news for speed fans: Germany and Italy agree on the speed limit. In both countries, you can zip through the streets at a maximum of 20 km/h. A look across the border shows:
- Germany and Italy: comfortable 20 km/h
- France and Austria: sporty 25 km/h
But beware of the traffic zones: While in Germany you can happily cycle on bike paths, in Italy it's "road or nothing." Bike paths, sidewalks, and pedestrian zones are off-limits.
Insurance regulations in comparison
Insurance coverage is important in both countries. Take a look at the differences:
| Aspect | Germany | Italy |
|---|---|---|
| Compulsory insurance | Ja | Ja |
| Labeling | insurance sticker | license plate |
| Costs (approx.) | 30 euros per year | Varies |
One particular difference stands out: The helmets are mandatory. Friendly advice in Germany, a must in Italy .
What German tourists need to consider
Planning your Italian e-scooter tour? Here are the golden rules:
- Own e-scooter? Rather complicated! Without Italian residency, insurance becomes a game of patience. Turn signals and brake lights must also be present.
- Rental e-scooters are your best friend: the rental companies take care of insurance and technical regulations.
- Don’t forget your helmet! What is optional in Germany becomes mandatory in Italy.
By the way: When it comes to alcohol, both countries are equally unfun. The blood alcohol limit is 0,5 per mille, but Italy's penalties are quite severe!
Rent an e-scooter or bring one with you?
Are you already packing your bags for Italy? Then the question of an e-scooter is probably on your mind. The answer is clear: rent one instead of bringing one! Strict technical regulations make it difficult for self-made devices to meet Italian standards.
Availability of rental e-scooters in Italian cities
Good news for sharing fans: Italy loves e-scooter sharing! Markt is booming and is expected to grow to an impressive 2025 million euros by 61,07. The future promises even more – experts predict 2029 million euros by 72, with an annual increase of 4,21%.
These providers are in the starting blocks:
- Animal: The German provider scores with 4.500 scooters in 11 cities
- Lime: The European champion among distributors
- Bird: America's sharing giant is getting involved
- You guys: Europe's largest rolls through over 100 cities
- Bolt: The newcomer with a fresh wind
A slight setback: The new traffic regulations have left their mark – 30% fewer trips in the first month. But don't worry, the range of options remains diverse!
Costs and providers at a glance
See what your wallet says:
| Offerer | Unlocking fee | Price per minute | Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Lime, Bird, Voi, Animal | about 1 € | 0,20-0,25 € | Great subscription packages |
| Bolt | None | Similar | Thrifty when unlocking |
| Helbiz (Naples) | 1€ | 0,20€ | Monthly flat rate: 30€ |
| Reby (Naples) | - | - | Week: 13€, Month: 25€ |
Visitors to Rome have it particularly good: the speedy cars are waiting for you right next to the Colosseum and the Spanish Steps.
A word about equipment: The new helmet requirement is causing discussion. Lime and Dott are scratching their heads – Andrea Giaretta from Dott even says that scooters with helmets are "practically impossible".
The trend speaks for itself: By 2025, 5,3% of Italians are expected to use e-scooters. Smart people know the rules and zip through the city in a relaxed manner!
Practical tips for e-scooter riders in Italy
Welcome to your handy guide to e-scooter riding through Italy's bustling cities! Local rules differ significantly from what you might be used to. Let's explore how to stay safe and compliant.
Where can you ride an e-scooter in Italy?
The Italian road traffic regulations draw clear lines:
- Green light: Only on city streets where a maximum speed of 50 km/h is permitted
- Absolute taboo: Cycle paths, sidewalks, pedestrian zones and country roads
Unlike in Germany, where you can cruise comfortably on bike paths, in Italy you share the road with cars. Remember: 20 km/h is the maximum speed—no matter how fast you're in.
Parking options in Italian cities
The parking guide for your e-scooter:
- Special e-scooter zones are your best friend
- Sidewalks are taboo – this applies in Italy as well as in Sweden
- Use the designated parking spaces for two-wheelers
Be smart when parking – the Italian authorities don’t take illegal parking lightly.
Taking them on public transport
How it works with bus and train:
| Mode of Transport | folded | Not folded |
|---|---|---|
| Bus | Free as hand luggage | Usually not allowed |
| Zug | Free as hand luggage [162] | Possible with bicycle ticket |
An important note: German public transport companies reject e-scooters for safety reasons. This skepticism could also reach Italian public transport companies.
Remember to include the basic equipment for your e-scooter: brakes, front and rear lights, and reflectors on the sides. The paperwork—certification and user manual—should also be included in your luggage.
Conclusion
Wow, that was a lot of information about the Italian e-scooter world starting in 2025! The new rules may sound strict, but they have one important goal: your safety and that of all other road users.
Planning your tour of Italy? Great! Rent a scooter – they're already fully equipped and comply with all regulations. A helmet will be your faithful companion, and parking rules will become your new best friend.
Here is your handy shopping list for on the go:
- Stay on roads where the maximum speed is 50 km/h
- Avoid sidewalks like hot pavement
- Park only where it is expressly permitted
- The helmet belongs on your head, not in your backpack
Remember: A rule-compliant e-scooter ride is twice as fun! You can enjoy Italian cities in a relaxed manner and without worrying about expensive surprises. So, put on your helmet and let's set off on your Italian city adventure!
FAQ
Yes, e-scooters are permitted in Italy, but stricter regulations will apply from 2025. All e-scooters will then have to be insured, have a license plate, and riders will have to wear a helmet.
The maximum speed for e-scooters in Italy is 20 km/h. E-scooters that can travel faster are not permitted on Italian roads.
In Italy, e-scooters are only permitted on urban roads with a maximum speed limit of 50 km/h. Their use is prohibited on bike paths, sidewalks, pedestrian zones, and outside built-up areas.
From 2025, e-scooters in Italy must be equipped with functioning indicators, brake lights, front and rear lights, and side reflectors. Insurance and a license plate are also mandatory.
It's not recommended for tourists to bring their own e-scooter. Rental e-scooters are more convenient, as they usually already comply with the new regulations and are insured. Furthermore, obtaining Italian insurance can be difficult for non-residents.
