E-scooter insurance licence plate: Your guide to safe and legal rides in 2025
27.05.25
3
Minutes
Katrin Straub
Managing Director at nextsure
Do you want to get going with your e-scooter worry-free, but the details about insurance and the number plate raise questions? Don’t worry, this guide will make you an expert in just a few minutes. Find out how to avoid fines and enjoy the best possible protection.
The topic in brief and concise terms
For e-scooters up to 20 km/h, third-party liability insurance with a registration plate (insurance sticker) is legally required in Germany (eKFV).
The cost of e-scooter liability insurance starts at around €20–40 per year; partial comprehensive insurance is optional and costs extra.
Driving without a valid insurance plate is a criminal offence and may be punished with a fine or a prison sentence; furthermore, there is unlimited personal liability for any damage.
The foundation: Why e-scooter insurance with a number plate is indispensable
Every e-scooter that takes part in public road traffic must have third-party liability insurance. This is evidenced by an insurance plate, a self-adhesive sticker. The legal basis for this is the Electromicromobility Vehicles Ordinance (eKFV), which has been in force since 15 June 2019. This regulation applies to all e-scooters with a design-related maximum speed of up to 20 kilometres per hour. Without this plate, use is illegal and can be costly. The insurance sticker must be clearly visible and attached to the rear of the e-scooter. The insurance requirement serves to protect all road users, as it covers damage you cause to others. A breach of the insurance requirement is not a trivial offence, but a criminal offence under the Compulsory Insurance Act. This lays the foundation for a safe journey, but how do you get hold of the coveted plate?
Quick and easy protection: How to get your e-scooter licence plate
Getting an E-scooter licence plate is straightforward and usually only takes a few steps. Many insurers offer online application, and you will often receive the sticker by post within one to three working days. To take out cover, you usually need the general operating permit (ABE) or an individual operating permit (EBE) for your E-scooter. These documents confirm that your vehicle meets the technical requirements. The cost of pure third-party liability insurance often starts at under 30 euros per year. Some providers also allow you to purchase the licence plate directly at a branch office. Check the delivery time if you want to use the E-scooter straight away. The insurance year for E-scooters always begins on 1 March and ends on the last day of February in the following year. The colour of the sticker changes every year to allow for quick checks. For the 2025/2026 insurance year, the colour is green, for example. With the right E-scooter insurance cover, you are ready to go, but what costs will you actually face?
Costs in view: What e-scooter insurance really costs
The cost of e-scooter insurance varies depending on the provider and level of cover. Third-party liability insurance is already available from around €20 to €40 per year. For riders under 23, premiums with some insurers may be slightly higher, often by five to ten euros. Partial comprehensive cover, which also covers damage to your own e-scooter such as theft or vandalism, usually costs an additional €20 to €50 per year. A comparison of e-scooter insurance is worthwhile in order to find the best value for money. Please note that with partial comprehensive cover, an excess of, for example, €150 is often agreed in the event of a claim. The cover amount in the liability policy should be sufficiently high; many providers offer up to €100 million here. This investment in protection is small compared with the possible financial consequences of an accident without insurance.
Check additional benefits and tariff details
In addition to the price, you should also carefully review the details of the insurance policy. Here is a short checklist of what to look out for:
Liability cover amount (at least several million euros).
Scope of the partial comprehensive cover (theft, vandalism, natural hazards).
Amount of the excess in the partial comprehensive cover.
Area of validity (Europe or worldwide).
Insurer services (accessibility, claims handling).
Special conditions for young riders (under 23 or 25 years).
Option to cancel during the policy term if the e-scooter is sold.
Careful selection not only secures you a low premium, but also reliable protection in the event of a claim. But what happens if you ignore the insurance requirement?
Risk of driving without protection: consequences of a missing insurance plate
Riding an e-scooter without a valid insurance plate is not a minor offence. It constitutes an offence under section six of the Compulsory Insurance Act. Severe penalties are possible, ranging from a fine to a custodial sentence of up to one year. In addition, penalty points may be added to your record in Flensburg. If only the insurance sticker is missing, although cover is in place, a warning fine of 40 euros is payable. If the e-scooter is used in public traffic without the required general operating permit (ABE), a fine of 70 euros may be imposed. The financial consequences of an accident without insurance cover can be life-threatening. You would then be liable for all personal injury and property damage caused, using your entire private assets. Given these risks, the modest annual premium for mobility insurance is money well spent. However, comprehensive cover goes beyond liability alone.
More than just compulsory: useful add-on cover such as partial comprehensive insurance
The legally required liability insurance covers damage you cause to others. But what about damage to your own e-scooter? This is where partial comprehensive cover comes in. This is not mandatory, but is often highly recommended, especially for high-end models. Partial cover typically pays out in the event of theft, fire, short circuit or damage caused by natural events such as storms and hail. The cost of partial cover often starts at just an additional €20 per year. In cities with high theft rates in particular, partial cover can quickly pay for itself. Many insurers offer plans with or without an excess; a typical excess is around €150. Some policies even cover damage to the battery, in some cases with new-for-old compensation in the first 24 months. Weigh up the value of your e-scooter and your individual risk to decide whether a insurance for small vehicles with partial cover makes sense for you. For a well-informed decision, expert advice is often worth its weight in gold.
Expert knowledge in brief: Legal nuances and current guidance on e-scooter insurance
The legal classification of e-scooters is governed by the Ordinance on Small Electric Vehicles (eKFV). This ordinance regulates, among other things, the technical requirements and compulsory insurance. An important aspect is the aforementioned general operating permit (ABE), without which an e-scooter cannot be used legally on public roads and therefore cannot be insured either. When buying an e-scooter, make sure it has this ABE. The minimum age for riding an e-scooter is 14; a driving licence is not required. There is no legal helmet requirement, but it is strongly recommended, as falls at speeds of around 20 kilometres per hour can already cause serious injuries. Our expert tip: Before travelling abroad, clarify whether your German insurance cover is recognised there and which national rules apply. Within the EU, German third-party liability insurance is usually valid, but it is advisable to take the International Insurance Card with you. In the event of an accident, it is important, as with any other road traffic accident, to call the police, especially if there are injuries or it is unclear who is at fault. Document the damage and inform your insurer immediately. For comprehensive cover, general motor third-party liability insurance for other vehicles may also be relevant if you use more than just e-scooters.
Current rulings and special considerations
Court decisions can influence the legal situation. The Austrian Supreme Court (OGH) has ruled that accidents involving e-scooters on the commute to work are, in some circumstances, not covered by statutory accident insurance, as e-scooters could be classified as trend sports equipment. [1] This underlines the importance of private accident and liability insurance. In Germany, driving under the influence of alcohol is also prohibited on an e-scooter. For riders under 21 and those in their probationary period, a zero-per-mille limit applies. [2] In the event of breaches, not only fines but also loss of insurance cover may result. A number plate check is advisable before every journey.
When choosing your e-scooter insurance, you should not only look at the price. Compare the benefits carefully. A high sum insured for third-party liability, for example 100 million euros, provides peace of mind. For partial cover, pay attention to the risks covered (theft, vandalism, natural forces) and the level of any excess. Many insurers offer a discount if you have several policies with them or switch to annual payment. Our expert tip: use online comparison calculators, but also read the small print of the top deals. Pay attention to the scope of cover, especially if you plan to use the e-scooter abroad. Customer service and claims handling are also important criteria. Read reviews from other customers. A good car insurance can serve as a benchmark for service quality. Remember that the policy must be renewed annually on 1 March. Many providers will remind you in good time.
What matters when comparing:
A good e-scooter insurance policy offers more than just a low price. Here are some points you should consider:
Sum insured: For third-party liability claims, this should be at least 50 million euros, preferably 100 million euros.
Partial cover benefits: Check whether theft, vandalism, fire and natural hazards are covered.
Excess: A lower excess in the event of a claim means higher premiums and vice versa. Choose a value that suits you.
Scope of cover: Is the protection limited to Germany or does it apply across Europe?
Battery cover: Some tariffs offer special protection for the expensive battery, sometimes even with new-for-old compensation.
Cancellation periods: Look for fair cancellation terms if you decide to sell the e-scooter.
Claims service: How quickly and easily can you reach the insurer in the event of a claim, and how is settlement handled?
Careful review of these aspects will help you find the optimum protection for your e-scooter and avoid nasty surprises. The general terms and conditions provide further details.
Your next step towards worry-free e-scooter riding
The right e-scooter insurance with the appropriate licence plate is the key to carefree riding pleasure and protects you against unpredictable financial risks. With the insights gained here, you are ideally equipped to make the best decision for you. Bear in mind that solid basic cover is already available for an annual premium often under 50 euros. Compare offers and pay attention not only to the price, but also to the included benefits and the provider’s service. A well-chosen insurance policy is a small contribution for great peace of mind. At nextsure, we understand that your safety and protection come first. That is why we offer transparent, needs-based insurance solutions. If you need support in choosing the right e-scooter insurance or would like individual advice, we are happy to help. Make use of our expertise for worry-free mobility. Request an individual risk analysis now: Have your insurance situation reviewed free of charge and receive concrete suggestions for optimisation.
More useful links
KBA provides detailed information on type approval (ABE) for electric micro vehicles.
The insurers (GDV) provide information on important aspects of e-scooter insurance.
Destatis (Federal Statistical Office) provides a press release that is expected to contain relevant statistics on e-scooters.
Gesetze im Internet provides the full official text of the Ordinance on Electric Small Vehicles (eKFV).
TÜV Association provides information in a press release about the high safety and fire protection standards of approved e-scooters.
FAQ
What documents do I need to take out an e-scooter insurance policy?
To complete the process, you usually need the general operating permit (ABE) or individual operating permit (EBE) for your e-scooter, as well as your personal details. Sometimes the vehicle identification number (FIN) is also required.
How long is an e-scooter licence plate valid?
The e-scooter licence plate is always valid for one insurance year. This begins on 1 March and ends on the last day of February of the following year. The colour of the licence plate changes every year.
Can I lend my e-scooter if it is insured?
Yes, as a rule, in addition to the policyholder, other authorised drivers are also covered. However, the driver must have reached the minimum age of 14. Please check the exact terms in your policy.
What happens if my e-scooter is stolen?
If you only have liability insurance, theft is not covered. If you have taken out partial comprehensive insurance that includes theft, the insurer will usually cover the loss, often less an excess.
Does my German e-scooter insurance also apply abroad?
Third-party liability insurance generally applies within the geographic borders of Europe and the non-European territories that are part of the EU's area of application. It is advisable to carry the International Insurance Card (Green Card) and to find out in advance about the specific rules in the destination country.
Do I have to wear a helmet when riding my e-scooter?
No, there is no legal requirement to wear a helmet for e-scooter riders in Germany. However, for safety reasons, wearing a helmet is strongly recommended, as serious head injuries can occur even at low speeds.
