Greece and Ireland Tighten E-Scooter Safety and Age Laws

European governments are intensifying regulations on electric scooters following a surge in traffic accidents and injuries among youth. In Greece, the government is introducing a bill on July 21, 2026, that prohibits the use, sale, and rental of e-scooters for individuals under 17, except for those adapted for people with disabilities. Additional Greek measures include mandatory third-party liability insurance, an electronic registry for vehicles, and increased fines of up to €350 for riding on roads with speed limits exceeding 50 km/h.

Simultaneously, the Government of Ireland announced a phased rollout of safety mandates beginning in August. These rules require all users to wear helmets and high-visibility clothing and raise the minimum age for e-scooter use to 18. By autumn, Ireland intends to reclassify e-scooters as mechanically propelled vehicles, necessitating registration and licenses for all users while banning sales to minors and non-road-legal vehicles. The Irish government is also strengthening legal protections for An Garda Síochána officers during pursuits.

Both nations cited alarming health data as catalysts for the changes. Greek authorities pointed to approximately 400 injuries among children and teenagers last year, while Irish officials noted a rise in serious head injuries reported by Children's Health Ireland. While the Irish Green Party welcomed the avoidance of a total ban, they cautioned that licensing requirements could function as a "ban by the back door."