Poland raises minimum age for electric scooter riders to 13

Poland has implemented new regulations for electric scooter users, raising the minimum age for riding on public roads to 13. Previously, children as young as 10 could use e-scooters in public spaces. The new rules, effective March 3, 2026, aim to curb a rising tide of accidents involving young riders.

Under the updated law, individuals under 13 are prohibited from riding e-scooters on most public roads, including streets, sidewalks, and bike paths within the road right-of-way. They are restricted to residential areas, such as internal roads and neighborhood paths, and must be supervised by an adult.

For riders between 13 and 18 years old, using public roads requires carrying either a bicycle card or a specific category of driver's license (AM, A1, B1, or T). These documents must be presented upon request.

The stricter rules come in response to a surge in e-scooter-related accidents. Police statistics show that in 2024, e-scooter riders caused 372 accidents, resulting in three deaths and 400 injuries. Preliminary data for 2025 indicates a further increase, with 1,164 accidents, 11 fatalities, and 1,062 injuries. Alarmingly, about 70% of those involved in accidents in mid-2025 were under 17.

Given that e-scooters can reach speeds up to 20 km/h, they pose a risk of serious injury and significant property damage. Financial experts recommend obtaining accident insurance (NNW) for riders, though coverage specifics depend on the policy's terms and conditions.