Do you want to ride your e-scooter safely and legally? Here you will find the most important rules for Switzerland – explained concisely and with tips on what to consider when making a purchase.
- From 16 years without driver's license, from 14 years with driver's license category M
- Maximum 20 km/h, for one person only
- Use bike paths and bike lanes, otherwise the roadway – no sidewalks
- Lights on front and rear, also switched on during the day
- No license plate, no vignette, no helmet requirement
This article summarizes the regulations of the Federal Office of Transport (ASTRA, as of July 1, 2025) in an understandable manner and is not legal advice. Laws and regulations may change. Therefore, inform yourself before riding with official bodies such as ASTRA or BFU. Different rules apply abroad.
1. The essentials at a glance
e-scooters (e-trottinettes) are classified as light motor bicycles in Switzerland. The following rules apply:
| Topic | Rule in Switzerland |
|---|---|
| Maximum Speed | 20 km/h with motor assistance |
| Motor Power | maximum 500 W nominal power (continuous power); a higher peak power is permitted |
| Minimum Age | from 14 years with driver's license category M, from 16 years without a license |
| Passengers | not allowed, e-trottinettes have only one seat |
| Where to ride? | Bike paths and bike lanes, otherwise the roadway; no sidewalks |
| Equipment | Lights (also required during the day), two brakes, bell, reflectors – details in point 3 |
| License plate and vignette | not required |
Source: Federal Office of Transport ASTRA, as of July 1, 2025
2. Who may ride – and where?
Age and Driver's License
Between 14 and 16 years, you need a driver's license of category M (moped license). From 16 years onward, you may ride without a license. Riding is not allowed under 14 years. Exceptions only apply in special cases with cantonal approval.
Riding Alone
An e-scooter is designed for exactly one person. Passengers are not allowed, and children may not ride along. Therefore, pay attention to the carrying capacity for you and your luggage when choosing your e-scooter: The VMAX e-scooters carry between 120 and 150 kg depending on the model, the New VX4 can even carry up to 150 kg.
Where You May Ride
The traffic rules for cyclists apply to you:
- If there is a bike path or bike lane, you must use it.
- If there isn't one, you must ride on the roadway.
- Sidewalks and pedestrian zones are off-limits unless they are designated for bikes by a signal.
Speed and Motor Power
The motor may assist you up to a maximum of 20 km/h. Additionally, the general and signposted speed limits apply, for example in meeting zones.
For motor power, the nominal power, i.e., the continuous power, counts: It should not exceed 500 W. The motor may produce more power temporarily, such as during acceleration or up a hill. Therefore, you will find peak power ratings for VMAX e-scooters: The New VX4, for example, can reach up to 2800 W.
Not Every e-scooter is Road-Approved
In Switzerland, there is no type approval and no license plate for e-scooters. You, as the rider, are responsible for ensuring that your model meets the regulations. The police check this in traffic. With VMAX e-scooters, it is clear which models are intended for road use: Our off-road models R40 PRO and R55 PRO are faster than 20 km/h and are therefore exclusively for private property.
3. Mandatory Equipment – and what VMAX provides as standard
For your e-scooter to be allowed on the road, it needs to have specific basic equipment. The road-approved VMAX e-scooters come equipped with these as standard, along with extras for added safety.
| Equipment | Regulation | At VMAX e-scooters |
|---|---|---|
| Lights | White in front, red in the back, continuously lighting, not blinding, and visible at night from 100 m. Must also be switched on during the day. | Standard |
| Brakes | Two brakes on different wheels, at least one of which must be mechanical (e.g., disc or drum brake) | Standard |
| Bell | Mandatory as an acoustic warning signal | Standard |
| Reflectors | Red in the back mandatory, white in the front optional | Standard |
| CE marking | Mandatory (proof of electromagnetic compatibility) | Standard |
| Turn Signals | Optional; if present, they must be type-approved | Standard |
| Helmet | No requirement, recommended by ASTRA and BFU | VMAX helmet, certified according to EN 1078 |
While turn signals are optional, they are a great advantage in traffic: You indicate direction changes without taking your hand off the handlebars. All VMAX e-scooters are equipped with them as standard, most models even have them in the front and rear. You can learn more about this in the article Turn Signals on e-scooters.
It is also important that lights and brakes function permanently. You can purchase spare parts in our online shop and directly from the VMAX team in Oftringen. You can also perform many repairs yourself with our repair guides.
4. Alcohol, Insurance, and Taking it on the Train
Alcohol
The same limits apply as in the rest of road traffic. From 0.5 per mille, you are considered intoxicated; from 0.8 per mille, there is a qualified alcohol concentration. This can result in fines and further measures, depending on the case, even consequences for your driver's license. For some groups of people, stricter limits apply. The safest approach is to ride sober or take public transport or a taxi.
Insurance and License Plate
You do not need a license plate, vignette, or vehicle registration. Damages you cause to others are typically covered by your personal liability insurance. If in doubt, check your policy briefly. A solid lock, such as the VMAX Folding Lock, which you attach directly to the handlebars, is helpful against theft.
e-scooters on the Train (SBB)
The SBB transports e-trottinettes free of charge if the largest wheel has a diameter of no more than 30 cm (less than 12 inches). The VX2 Lite, for example, has 10-inch wheels and thus falls under this rule. Position the e-scooter so that it does not obstruct the aisle and does not occupy bike spaces. It is best to fold it up and store it as luggage. Other transport companies may have their own rules.
Abroad
Other countries have significantly different regulations. Inform yourself before traveling, for example, in the Overview of TCS.
5. Conclusion: Know the Rules, Choose the Right Model
With some knowledge of the rules, you can ride safely and relaxed in your everyday life: Lights on, use bike paths, ride alone, and stay sober.
Since the same 20 km/h applies for all road-approved e-scooters, the differences appear elsewhere:
- Power on Hills: The New VX4 can handle inclines of up to 40%.
- Long Distances: With the New VX4, you can travel up to 110 km; with the VX2 Hub, up to 90 km.
- Comfort in Everyday Life: The VX2 Lite is fully suspended and can go up to 90 km.
- Easy Entry: The VX5 PRO is a handy companion for shorter trips.
Popular Accessories for Your e-scooter
Ready for the Road?
Discover road-approved VMAX e-scooters with turn signals, service, and spare parts from our service center in Oftringen.
ASTRA: Vehicle-Specific Rules and information sheet "Regulations on Slow E-Bikes, E-Trottinettes, E-Rollers ..." (as of July 1, 2025)
BFU: E-Trottinettes, E-Rollers and Co. – where and how to ride them?
SBB: Bicycles and Trottinettes on the Train
6. Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a driver's license for an e-scooter?
Not from 16 years old. Between 14 and 16 years, you need a driver's license of category M.
May I ride the e-scooter on the sidewalk?
No. Sidewalks and pedestrian zones are only allowed if designated for bikes by a signal.
Must the light be on during the day?
Yes. An e-trottinette requires lights even during the day: white in front, red in the back.
How fast may an e-scooter go in Switzerland?
The motor assists up to a maximum of 20 km/h. Lower signposted speed limits also apply.
How much wattage may an e-scooter have in Switzerland?
The nominal power (continuous power) may not exceed 500 W. A higher peak power, such as during acceleration or uphill, is allowed.
Are turn signals mandatory on e-scooters?
No, turn signals are optional. If they are equipped, they must be type-approved. All VMAX e-scooters come with integrated turn signals as standard.
Is a helmet required?
No, but ASTRA and BFU strongly recommend it.
Can I take a passenger with me?
No. E-trottinettes are only licensed for one person; children are not allowed to ride along.
