Dear Parents / Guardians,

Important information regarding E-Bikes & E-Scooters

During visits to several schools in the last few weeks, it has become apparent that many pupils have already or are in the process of obtaining electric bikes and electric scooters for their own use. We would like to remind all parents and guardians of the current UK law surrounding the use of both.

Electric bikes (or e-bikes) are classed as Electronically Assisted Pedal Cycles (EAPCs) by authorities. The current UK law surrounding EAPCs states that riders must be at least 14 years of age when using them on the roads. Therefore, it’s illegal in the UK for children under 14 to ride e-bikes.

It is important to remember that once a battery has been fitted to a bike, there’s the potential for it to be turned on and used, so children under 14 years of age are still prohibited from using one whether the battery is on or not.

There’s currently no law regarding the use of electric bikes on bridle paths, but the Department for Food, Environment and Rural Affairs (DEFRE) states that there’s a tacit implication that people should comply with the road laws whilst on bridle paths.

Children under 14 are, however, allowed to ride e-bikes on privately-owned land at the owner’s discretion. Private land isn’t subject to the Road Traffic Act, so this is one way to allow children to enjoy e-bikes. We would recommend, however, that you use good judgement to determine whether it’s actually a good idea to allow your child to ride a power-assisted bike. Regardless of the law itself, there is a safety concern for young riders – ensure they’re skilled and responsible enough to ride, even if you do have permission to use private land.

With regards to the use of e-bikes for those 14 years and over, there is no requirement to hold a licence, register it or pay vehicle tax.

E-Scooters that can only be used on public roads are those that are hired as part of the government-backed trials. We would also remind you that to use these trial scooters you need to be a minimum of 18 years old and in possession of a current driving license. Private e-scooters can only be used on private land (with the landowner’s permission) and not on public roads, cycle lanes or pavements.

When the new Transport Bill to be introduced by the Government is passed regarding the use of Private Scooters we will update you, but many of the scooters you can currently buy from retailers or online may not fit the new legal criteria and will remain illegal after the introduction of the new legislation and may also include age restrictions and other legal requirements.

Please do not hesitate to contact the Council’s Road Safety Team on 0151 351 1365 or email road.safety@liverpool.gov.uk should you require any further clarity regarding the information contained above.

Kind regards

Road Safety Team
Liverpool City Council