What is allowed to be sold in Norway is not necessarily something that is allowed to be used. This is the case for electric scooters, where we have common European product regulations that govern production, import and sale, while technical requirements and the use of the product are governed by national laws and traffic regulations.
Therefore, it is important that the consumer is aware of the rules that apply in Norway. If you also buy from a country or website outside Europe, the European product regulations will not necessarily be met. Here we explain how you can follow the rules that apply in Norway.
An important thing to note is that electric scooters that go at speeds above 20 km/h are not allowed to be used in Norway, neither on public roads and areas, nor on private roads and areas.
Scooters for children under 12 years old
Children under the age of 12 are only allowed to use electric scooters that are defined as "toys". Such a scooter must be blocked for speeds above 6 km/h and cannot weigh more than 50 kilos.
When using it, you must follow the same traffic rules that apply to pedestrians.
Warnings and information to be provided at the time of purchase are:
- Information about which age group the product is suitable for
- Recommendations on protective equipment
- Warnings about possible hazards when using the product
- Important safety information about the product
- CE Mark
It is not allowed to market electric scooters to children under the age of 6. This requirement applies throughout Europe.
Electric toy vehicles must have a seat for children under 6 years of age.
Scooters for children over 12 years old
Children aged 12 and up can use electric scooters that go faster than 6 km/h. These are defined as "small electric motor vehicles" and must be blocked for speeds above 20 km/h.
It is not allowed for children under the age of 12 to use them, not even in closed areas.
Electric scooters can be used in the same way as a bicycle, i.e. on roads, public transport lanes, pedestrian and cycle paths or cycle lanes.
Children between the ages of 12 and 15 must wear a helmet. It is not allowed to drive with passengers.
Warnings and information to be provided at the time of purchase are:
- Declaration of Conformity
- Warnings about possible hazards during use
- Important safety information
- CE Mark
Warnings and information that should be provided at the time of purchase are:
- Information about which age group the product is suitable for
- Recommendations on protective equipment
There are technical requirements for scooters that go over 6 km/h, such as brakes, lights and doorbells.
From 01.01.2023, liability insurance was also required. More information and requirements for "small electric motor vehicles" can be found on the Norwegian Public Roads Administration's website.
Battery and fire
Electric scooters usually have powerful lithium-ion batteries. In some cases, such batteries have started to burn during charging.
The reason is usually that the battery has been damaged, so it is therefore important to keep an eye on this.
Also read: Advice on safe charging of electric scooters.