Estonia Considers Stricter Electric Scooter Regulations for Minors Amid Rising Accidents

Proposed Age Restrictions and Licensing Requirements

Estonia is moving to tighten regulations on electric scooter usage by minors, with the Ministry of Climate actively reviewing new proposals. A key consideration is a complete ban on children under 10 years old from riding electric scooters and mini-mopeds. Furthermore, officials are exploring the requirement of a special right, such as a cycling license or a mandatory bicycle safety exam, for young people aged 10 to 15. This would apply to riding on roadways, as well as potentially on pedestrian and cyclist paths.

Under current rules, children under 8 years old are prohibited from riding on carriageways, even with adult supervision. Those aged 8-15 without a cycling license can only use carriageways under adult supervision if other designated paths are unavailable. For 10-15 year olds with a cycling license, unsupervised riding on carriageways is permitted under similar conditions. The new proposals aim to extend restrictions for the youngest riders to all types of paths.

Rising Accident Statistics Prompt Action

The push for stricter rules is directly linked to a notable increase in accidents involving minors. According to Minister of Climate Kuldar Leis, while adult accident rates have remained stable, incidents among children aged 7 to 14, and even 15 to 17, are on the rise. In 2025 alone, there were 45 more accidents involving children than the previous year. The Ministry of Climate indicates that children aged 7-14 years account for the majority of these incidents, with minors involved in a quarter of all light electric vehicle accidents.

Police and Border Guard Board (PPA) statistics from 2024 revealed the highest number of electric scooter accidents in the past four years, with a 35 percent increase in incidents during May and June compared to the previous year. These accidents have resulted in injuries including broken bones and concussions. A significant concern is the accessibility of high-speed electric scooters, some capable of reaching 40-60 km/h, or even up to 100 km/h, which are easily acquired by children. Mart Einpalu, co-founder of Voltrayd store, noted that approximately one-third of their customers are young people, often prioritizing peer influence over safety.

Official Statements and Implementation Timeline

The Ministry of Climate is leading the review of these regulations, with preliminary proposals submitted to the Traffic Commission in October. Minister Kuldar Leis emphasized that the goal is to ensure children's safety and reduce dangerous situations on roads. The ministry is also considering requiring rental companies to implement reliable age and identity verification measures to prevent inexperienced users from accessing light vehicles. The new rules for light vehicles are anticipated to be finalized by next spring.