Understanding Electric Moped UK Law: Essential Information

Electric mopeds have become increasingly popular in the UK as a convenient and eco-friendly mode of transport. But before you hit the road, it’s important to know the rules to stay safe and legal. This guide breaks down everything you need to know about electric moped laws in the UK, including licence requirements, age and power limits, safety gear, insurance and tax. 

Electric Moped, Electric Scooter and Electric Bikes - What’s The Difference?

Electric mopeds, scooters, and bikes are all great eco-friendly ways to get around, but they’re fundamentally different vehicles that come with different features, rules, and purposes. 

Electric Mopeds

• What Are They? Think of them as small motorcycles with an electric motor. The term ‘moped’ technically means up to 50cc of power, but many people use this term for motorcycles that have the ‘style’ of a moped.
• Speed: Can go up to 28 mph (45 km/h) or even faster, depending on the model.
• Power: Up to 4 kW.
• These have licence, insurance and tax implications (which we go into later).

Electric Scooters

• What Are They? Lightweight, stand-on vehicles with an electric motor.
• Speed: Usually 15-20 mph (25-32 km/h).
• Power: Generally less powerful than mopeds.
• Apart from some trial cities in the UK, these currently are only allowed to be ridden on private land.
• These don’t have any licensing, insurance or tax needs.

Electric Bikes (E-Bikes)

• What Are They? Bicycles with a motor to help you pedal, officially called Electrically Assisted Pedal Cycles (EAPCs).
• Speed: Motor assistance cuts out at 15.5 mph (25 km/h).
• Power: Limited to 250W.
• These don’t have any licensing, insurance or tax needs.

Key Differences at a Glance

Not sure whether you want a moped, scooter or motorcycle? Read our guide on the various types of motorcycles and mopeds, including the key differences between 50cc vs 125cc.

Getting Your Electric Moped Road Legal in the UK

Electric mopeds are powered by an electric motor, which differentiates them from traditional mopeds that rely on internal combustion engines. The power output of the electric motor determines its classification and licensing requirements.

For additional clarity on the legal documents required for riding mopeds or motorbikes, visit Legal Documents for Riding a Scooter or Motorbike in the UK.

Licence Requirements for Electric Moped Riders

Electric mopeds and scooters (50cc) are classified as L1e vehicles, just like traditional mopeds, and have the same licence needs. Here’s a breakdown:

• Speed Restriction: Electric mopeds (which are considered L1e vehicles) are capped at a maximum speed of 30 mph, the same as petrol mopeds.
• Age Requirement: You can ride an L1e electric scooter (50cc) from 16 years old.
• Licence and Training:
  • You need at least a provisional driving licence.
  • You’ll also need to complete a Compulsory Basic Training (CBT), which is required for 50cc vehicles unless you hold a full driving licence issued before 1st February 2001.
  • After completing your CBT, you’ll need to display L plates (unless exempt due to an older full licence). You also won’t be able to ride on motorways, or carry a pillion passenger.
• Safety Gear: Wearing an approved helmet is mandatory.

For more details on the licensing and tax implications of riding motorcycles or mopeds in the UK, check out UK Licences & Laws for Motorcycles and Mopeds.

For those wanting to ride higher-powered electric motorcycles (i.e. above 50cc), the training and licence needs are the same, but you’ll need to wait until you’re 17 years old to ride up to 125cc (11Kw) scooters or motorcycles with your CBT certificate. There are many pros to riding an electric motorcycle in a CBT, but for anything above 125cc, you’ll need to invest in a full motorcycle licence.

Electric Moped Tax and MOT Obligations

Electric mopeds in the UK are subject to specific insurance and tax obligations. 

• Tax and Registration:
  • You must register the vehicle with the DVLA, ensure it’s type-approved, and display a licence plate.
  • Motorcycle tax is required, but electric mopeds are exempt from charges as an electric vehicle.
  • An MOT certificate is needed annually once the vehicle is three years old.

Getting Insurance For Electric Mopeds

You need insurance for an electric moped if you're planning to ride it on UK public roads. The minimum requirement is third-party insurance, which covers any damage or injury you might cause to others or property. More comprehensive policies are optional, but having at least third-party insurance is essential to ride legally.

Here’s the good news: insurance for electric mopeds can often be cheaper than traditional petrol-powered mopeds. This is because electric vehicles typically have fewer mechanical parts, making them less expensive to repair. They also tend to be seen as less risky by insurers. 

The exact cost of your insurance will depend on factors like the moped's value, your riding experience, location, and the level of coverage you opt for. It's always a good idea to compare quotes to find the best deal for your specific needs.

FAQs

Can I ride an electric moped without a licence?

No, in the UK, you can't ride an electric moped without a licence if you plan to ride it on public roads. To ride an electric moped legally, you'll need at least a provisional driving licence and must complete Compulsory Basic Training (CBT), unless you already have a full driving licence issued before 1st February 2001. Once you’ve passed your CBT, you'll need to display L plates until you pass your full motorcycle test.

Are electric mopeds allowed on bike paths?

In the UK, electric mopeds can't be used on bike paths. Since they're classed as motor vehicles, they have to be ridden on public roads, not in bike lanes or on paths meant for pedal bikes.

What are the best electric mopeds?

What counts as the best moped for you will depend on your needs and style, but we do go through some popular electric mopeds on our list of Top Ten Electric Mopeds.

What is the maximum speed allowed for electric mopeds?

In the UK, the maximum speed allowed for electric mopeds is 28 mph (45 km/h) if they’re classified as L1e vehicles. This is the same speed limit as petrol-powered mopeds.