In our little country we don’t have the best relationship with the electric scooter. Most models are not allowed on the road, but there are exceptions.
Electric scooters are extremely convenient and very pleasant to ride. But when touring around the Netherlands on an electric scooter, you quickly run into a big question mark: is it actually legal?
The short answer is (unfortunately) often no. Still, there are ways to legally scoot around. Here we explain which electric scooters are legal in the Netherlands and what to look out for.
These electric scooters are legal in the Netherlands
The Netherlands has strict rules for vehicles driving on public roads. An electric scooter is considered a motor vehicle. This means that the scooter must meet certain technical requirements and be approved by the RDW (Dutch Road Transport Authority).
For example, an electric scooter may not go faster than 25 kilometers per hour. Does your scooter not have approval? Then you may only ride it on private property, but not on public roads.
The electric scooters that are legal do have a type approval from the RDW. This means they are officially approved for use on public roads. Here are a few models that are legal in the Netherlands:
StepStep
The StapStep is an electric scooter with a clever trick: you have to scoot yourself before the motor turns on. That makes it more of an electric bike than a motor vehicle, according to the RDW.
You can choose from three versions: the Lite+ (20 km range), the Pro (35 km) and the Pro+ (50 km). The convenient folding mechanism and light weight of 13-15 kg make this the perfect scooter to take on the train or bus.
Lovely scooters (Image: StepStep)
UrbMob Kick & Go
The UrbMob Kick & Go has the same system, requiring you to dismount for eight seconds before receiving support. You have a choice of four gears, with a maximum speed of 25 kilometers. The scooter is collapsible, weighs 11 pounds and is easy to take with you in the train or car.
Stepping through the polder. (Image: Pro-mounts)
Yedoo Mezeq Disc 20/16
The Yedoo Mezeq Disc 20/16 is a cool electric scooter that will take you anywhere. This powerhouse is perfect for adults between 150 and 190 cm, thanks to the adjustable handlebars that you can set between 95 and 101 cm.
It has 20-inch pneumatic tires in the front and 16-inch in the back, both equipped with disc brakes for extra control. And at 1.48 meters tall and weighing only 11 kg, this scooter is stable and easy to handle.
No shortage of bicycle tires (Image: Yedoo)
Kickbike Fat Max
The Kickbike Fat Max is ideal for adventurers. This electric scooter is sturdy and perfect for both paved roads and gravel paths or just a relaxing ride. With the adjustable frame and handlebars (103-108 cm), you can easily adjust it to your height (165-210 cm).
The thick pneumatic tires (26-inch front, 20-inch rear) and disc brakes make your ride smooth and comfortable. Plus, the adjustable footboard adds convenience.
By the water (Image: Kickbike)
What if you have an electric scooter that is not approved?
Do you already have an electric scooter, but it is not approved? Then you are not allowed to ride it on the road, and you can only ride it on private property. The police may fine you if you ride it on public roads, and in some cases your scooter may even be confiscated.
But there is good news for e-scooter fans: the rules around electric scooters may be getting looser. The European organization LEVA-EU is putting pressure on the Netherlands, calling our policy “disrespectful. In fact, the Netherlands is the only country in Europe where electric scooters are not allowed on public roads. According to LEVA-EU, this hinders innovation and delays the transition to cleaner mobility.
They call on the Dutch government to adjust the policy, follow EU rules and engage in discussions with stakeholders. So hopefully things will change soon. We will of course keep you informed.
