Electric bikes and electric scooters are now clearly regulated under Irish law. Since May 2024, the Road Safety Authority (RSA) and Department of Transport have introduced specific rules to ensure safe and legal use on public roads.
This guide explains:
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✅ The official rules for electric bikes
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✅ The official rules for electric scooters
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⚠️ Important information about electric dirt bikes (off-road only)
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🔗 Direct links to official RSA guidance
Electric Bikes (E-Bikes) – What’s Legal?
Under Irish law, an electric bike is treated the same as a regular bicycle only if it meets these conditions:
Legal Requirements for E-Bikes
An e-bike must:
• Have a maximum motor power of 250 watts
• Provide assistance only when pedalling (no throttle-only mode)
• Stop assisting once the bike reaches 25 km/h
If an electric bike exceeds these limits, it may be classified as an e-moped, which requires registration, insurance, tax and a driving licence.
Where You Can Ride an E-Bike
If compliant, you can ride:
• On public roads
• In cycle lanes
• In bus lanes
• Anywhere bicycles are permitted
You cannot:
• Ride on footpaths
• Ride in pedestrianised areas
All normal Rules of the Road apply.
Official RSA guidance:
https://www.rsa.ie/road-safety/road-users/special-purpose-vehicles/powered-personal-transportation
Shop our electric bikes here:
https://innercityscooters.com/collections/electric-bikes
Electric Scooters (E-Scooters) – Irish Legal Rules
Electric scooters became legal for road use in Ireland in May 2024 — but only if they meet strict technical standards.
Legal Technical Requirements
An e-scooter must:
• Have a maximum power output of 400 watts
• Have a maximum design speed of 20 km/h
• Weigh no more than 25 kg (including battery)
• Be fitted with lights, reflectors, brakes and a bell
• Display a manufacturer’s compliance plate
If a scooter exceeds these limits, it is not legal for public road use.
Usage Rules
Riders must:
• Be 16 years or older
• Obey the 20 km/h limit
• Ride on the left
• Use cycle lanes where available
• Obey traffic lights and road signs
Riders must NOT:
• Use footpaths
• Carry passengers
• Carry goods
• Use a mobile phone while riding
There is no requirement for tax, insurance or a licence for compliant e-scooters.
Official RSA e-scooter guidance:
https://www.rsa.ie/road-safety/road-users/special-purpose-vehicles/e-scooters
Shop our electric scooters here:
https://innercityscooters.com/collections/electric-scooters
Electric Dirt Bikes, Scramblers & Pit Bikes
Electric dirt bikes, scramblers and pit bikes are NOT legal for public road use in Ireland.
These vehicles:
• Often exceed legal power and speed limits
• Do not meet e-bike or e-scooter classifications
• Require registration, tax, insurance and a licence if used on public roads
In most cases, these bikes are designed strictly for:
• Private land
• Designated off-road tracks
Using them on public roads, footpaths, parks or housing estates can lead to Garda enforcement, fines and seizure.
Important: Electric dirt bikes are for off-road use only. Always obey Irish road regulations.
Important Reminder for All Riders
Whether you ride an electric bike or electric scooter:
• Always obey the Rules of the Road
• Respect pedestrians
• Use proper lighting and safety gear
• Ensure your vehicle meets Irish legal standards
Irish regulations are designed to keep everyone safe — riders, pedestrians and drivers alike.
