Love them or loathe them, electronic scooters are everywhere in Spain. To help you understand using Electric Scooters Spain, we have put together the following information, including the legal requirements for certification.
Personal Mobility Vehicles (VMP) is the official term for electric scooters. In the bigger cities, they have become incredibly popular, removing the need to take public transport or try to find parking, which can be incredibly expensive. Sometimes, you’ll see them whizzing down the roads, weaving in and out of traffic, using the cycle lanes, and sadly, they are happy in some cases to use the footpaths too.
E-Scooter Certification
Are you looking to buy an e-scooter? Well, there’s something important you should know.
Starting January 22, 2024, all e-scooters must have a safety and quality certification. If you already own one without certification, you can only use it until January 22, 2027.
To make sure you’re buying a safe and legal e-scooter, check if it has the necessary certificate. The General Directorate of Traffic (DGT) provides a webpage with information on certified brands and models.
Stay safe and compliant with the new certification requirement for all things Electric Scooters Spain.
Electric Scooters Spain – New Certification Requirement
To comply with the new certification requirement, you must ensure that your e-scooter is certified for safety and quality. Starting from January 22, 2024, all personal mobility vehicles (VMP), including e-scooters, must have this certification.
If you plan to sell your e-scooter after this date, it’s crucial to obtain the necessary certification. However, if you have already purchased an e-scooter without certification before the cutoff date, you can still use it until January 22, 2027. Keep in mind that these uncertified e-scooters have a limited lifespan.
It’s important to check if the e-scooter you’re purchasing has the required certificate to ensure that it meets the safety and quality standards. You can find a list of certified VMP brands and models on the General Directorate of Traffic (DGT) webpage.
Definition and Exclusions of VMPs
VMPs are personal mobility vehicles powered exclusively by electric motors, with a maximum design speed between 6 and 25 km/h. These vehicles can only have a seat or saddle if equipped with self-balancing systems.
However, it’s important to note that VMPs exclude vehicles for people with reduced mobility, toys, pedal-assisted bicycles, and vehicles classified as L according to EU Regulation 168/2013.
Additionally, VMPs have zero emissions and are exempt from visible emissions classification.
To ensure that you’re purchasing a certified VMP, make sure to check if the e-scooter has the necessary certificate before buying.
Illegal VMPs and Prohibited Areas
When using an e-scooter, be aware of the areas where it’s prohibited to ride. Some online-sold VMPs don’t meet the correct specifications and are illegal to use. VMPs are considered vehicles and must comply with all traffic rules. They’re prohibited from being ridden on pedestrian areas, pedestrian crossings, interurban roads, and motorways. Additionally, VMPs can’t be used in urban tunnels.
It’s important to note that using e-scooters in these prohibited areas can result in fines and penalties. As a buyer, it’s crucial to be aware of these restrictions and ensure that the e-scooter you purchase is certified and meets all necessary requirements.
The DGT webpage provides information on certified VMP brands and models, which can assist you in making an informed decision.
Implications for Buyers
Buyers should be aware of the certification requirement when purchasing e-scooters. Starting from January 22, 2024, personal mobility vehicles (VMP), including e-scooters, must be certified for safety and quality.
If you buy an e-scooter without certification, it can only be used until January 22, 2027. This means that some models being sold mightn’t have certification and will have a limited lifespan.
To avoid any issues, it’s important to check if the e-scooter has the necessary certificate before making your purchase.
Importance of Compliance
Are you aware of the importance of complying with e-scooter certification requirements?
It’s crucial to ensure that your e-scooter is certified for safety and quality. Compliance with the certification requirement not only guarantees your safety but also contributes to a more regulated environment for e-scooter users.
Riding uncertified e-scooters after 2027 will be illegal, so it’s essential to check if your e-scooter has the necessary certificate before purchasing.
Additionally, using e-scooters in prohibited areas can result in fines and penalties, as e-scooters are considered vehicles and must adhere to all traffic rules.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Can I Obtain Certification for My E-Scooter if It Was Purchased Before the Implementation Date?
To obtain certification for your e-scooter purchased before the implementation date, you cannot. Only e-scooters sold after January 22, 2024, are required to be certified.
Are There Any Penalties for Riding Uncertified E-Scooters After the Cutoff Date in 2027?
Yes, there are penalties for riding uncertified e-scooters after the cutoff date in 2027. It will be illegal, and you could face fines and other penalties for using uncertified e-scooters.
Can VMPs Be Used on Bike Lanes or Dedicated Cycling Paths?
Yes, VMPs can be used on bike lanes or dedicated cycling paths. They are allowed in these areas as long as they comply with traffic rules and regulations. Stay safe while riding!
Is There a Specific Agency Responsible for Enforcing the Certification Requirement for E-Scooters?
Yes, there is a specific agency responsible for enforcing the certification requirement for e-scooters. They ensure that e-scooters meet safety and quality standards. Make sure to check for the necessary certification before purchasing.
Are There Any Specific Safety Features or Standards That E-Scooters Must Meet to Obtain Certification?
Yes, there are specific safety features and standards that e-scooters must meet to obtain certification. Make sure the e-scooter you’re buying has the necessary certificate to ensure safety and quality.
If you want some further reading, there is more official information here, but you’ll need to use an online translation app for this, as it’s all in Spanish.
