Electric Scooter Regulations in Switzerland 2026

The electric scooter has become an essential means of transport in Swiss cities. In Geneva, Lausanne, Zurich or Bern, they are everywhere. But be careful: Switzerland has implemented strict regulations to govern their use. In this article, we provide a complete overview of what the law says in 2026.

What Does Swiss Law Say?

In Switzerland, electric scooters are classified as light mopeds (category M) by the Federal Roads Office (FEDRO). This classification implies specific rules regarding speed, power and required equipment.

To be authorized on public roads, an electric scooter must meet the following criteria:

• Maximum speed of 20 km/h — This is the absolute limit. Any vehicle exceeding this speed cannot travel on roads and cycle paths.
• Maximum power of 500W — The motor must not exceed 500 watts of continuous rated power.
• Category M (light moped) — Compliant electric scooters are treated as light mopeds, which defines the applicable traffic rules.
• No license required from age 16 — People aged 16 and over can ride an approved scooter without a license. Between 14 and 16, a category M license is required.
• Mandatory liability insurance — Liability insurance is mandatory. You must obtain an annual insurance sticker from your insurer. The cost is generally between CHF 50 and 100 per year.
• Helmet recommended but not mandatory — Although strongly advised, wearing a helmet is not required by law for light mopeds.

Approved scooters can travel on roads, cycle lanes and cycle paths. They must comply with traffic rules like any other vehicle.

Which Scooters Are Allowed on Public Roads?

Only models approved by FEDRO can legally travel on public roads in Switzerland. Approval guarantees that the vehicle meets all safety standards and technical limitations imposed by law.

To obtain approval, a scooter must meet several criteria:

• Speed electronically limited to 20 km/h — The manufacturer must guarantee that the vehicle does not exceed this speed.
• Motor power of 500W or less — Continuous rated motor power.
• Compliant lighting — White front light, red rear light, reflectors on the sides and rear.
• Effective braking system — Independent front and rear brakes.
• Bell — An audible warning device is mandatory.
• Registration plate — Once insured, the scooter receives a control plate (sticker) that must be visible at the rear of the vehicle.

At Kukirin Geneva, the KuKirin G2 Pro ABE model is limited to 20 km/h with a 500W motor and has ABE approval. It is our only model compliant with Swiss regulations for public road use (max speed 20 km/h, power 500W).

What About Powerful Scooters?

Electric scooters exceeding the legal limits (over 20 km/h or over 500W) are very popular for their performance. Models like the KuKirin G4, G4 Max or G3 Pro offer impressive performance, but they cannot be used on public roads in Switzerland.

These scooters are intended for private land use only. This includes private properties, agricultural land, private paths or closed circuits. The user is entirely responsible for complying with this rule.

Penalties for violation: riding on public roads with an unapproved scooter can result in severe penalties:

• Fine of up to several thousand Swiss francs
• Confiscation of the vehicle by police
• No insurance coverage — In case of an accident, you are personally responsible for all damages (personal injury and property damage), which can represent very significant amounts.
• Criminal prosecution possible in case of serious accident

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