Auto & Mobility
E-scooter insurance
e scooter insurance license plate
E-Scooter Insurance Number Plate: Your Guide for Safe and Legal Rides 2025
Do you want to start riding your e-scooter without worry, but have questions about insurance and license plates? Don’t worry, this guide will make you an expert in just a few minutes. Learn how to avoid fines and enjoy optimal protection.
The topic in brief and concise terms
In Germany, liability insurance with a license plate (insurance sticker) is legally required for e-scooters up to 20 km/h (eKFV).
The cost of liability insurance for an e-scooter starts at around 20-40 Euros annually; partial coverage is optional and incurs an additional charge.
Driving without a valid insurance plate is a criminal offense and can be punished with a fine or imprisonment; additionally, there is unlimited personal liability for damages.
The Foundation: Why an E-Scooter Insurance with a Licence Plate is Essential
Every e-scooter participating in public road traffic must have liability insurance. This is evidenced by an insurance plate, a self-adhesive label. The legal basis for this is the Elektrokleinstfahrzeuge-Verordnung (eKFV), which has been in effect since 15 June 2019. This regulation applies to all e-scooters with a maximum design speed of up to 20 kilometres per hour. Without this plate, use is illegal and can become expensive. The insurance label must be clearly visible on the rear of the e-scooter. The insurance requirement is in place to protect all road users, as it covers damages you may cause to others. A breach of the insurance requirement is not a minor offence but a criminal act under the compulsory insurance law. With this, the foundation for a safe journey is laid, but how do you get the coveted plate?
Quick and easy protection: How to get your e-scooter registration plate
The path to an e-scooter license plate is straightforward and usually completed in a few steps. Many insurers offer online registration, and you often receive the badge within one to three working days by post. For registration, you generally 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 costs for a liability insurance policy often start at less than 30 euros per year. Some providers also allow direct acquisition of the license plate at a branch. Check the delivery time if you want to use the e-scooter immediately. The insurance year for e-scooters always begins on the first of March and ends on the last day of February the following year. The color of the badge changes annually to enable quick inspection. For the insurance year 2025/2026, the color is, for example, green. With the right e-scooter insurance coverage, you are ready to go, but what exactly will the costs be?
Keeping an Eye on Costs: What an E-Scooter Insurance Really Costs
The cost of e-scooter insurance varies depending on the provider and the scope of cover. A simple third-party liability insurance is available from about 20 to 40 Euros per year. For drivers under 23 years, premiums may be slightly higher with some insurers, often around five to ten Euros. A partial coverage insurance, which additionally covers damage to your own e-scooter such as theft or vandalism, usually costs between 20 and 50 Euros extra per year. An insurance comparison for e-scooters is worthwhile to find the best price-performance ratio. Note that with partial coverage, a deductible of, for example, 150 Euros is often agreed upon in the event of damage. The coverage limit in liability should be sufficiently high; many providers offer up to 100 million Euros here. This investment in protection is minimal compared to the potential financial consequences of an accident without insurance.
Check additional benefits and tariff details
In addition to the price, you should also carefully examine the details of the insurance policy. Here is a small checklist of what you should pay attention to:
Liability insurance coverage limit (at least several million Euros).
Scope of partial coverage (theft, vandalism, natural disasters).
Amount of the deductible in partial coverage.
Coverage area (Europe or worldwide).
Services of the insurer (availability, claims handling).
Special conditions for young drivers (under 23 or 25 years).
Option for mid-year cancellation upon sale of the e-scooter.
Careful selection not only ensures a favorable premium but also reliable protection in case of emergency. But what happens if you ignore the insurance obligation?
Risk of Driving Without Protection: Consequences of Missing Insurance Plates
Driving an e-scooter without a valid insurance plate is not a minor offense. It constitutes a criminal act under paragraph six of the Compulsory Insurance Act. Severe penalties can be imposed, ranging from a fine to a prison sentence of up to one year. Additionally, penalty points may be recorded in Flensburg. If only the insurance sticker is missing, although there is insurance in place, a warning fine of €40 is due. If the e-scooter is used in public traffic without the required General Operating Permit (ABE), a fine of €70 may be imposed. The financial consequences of an accident without insurance cover can be life-threatening. You would then be personally liable for all personal injury and property damage with your entire private wealth. Considering these risks, the small annual premium for mobility insurance is money well spent. Comprehensive protection, however, extends beyond mere liability.
Expert knowledge in brief: Legal details and current notes on e-scooter insurance
The legal classification of e-scooters is governed by the Small Electric Vehicles Ordinance (eKFV). This regulation covers, among other things, the technical requirements and insurance obligations. An important aspect is the previously mentioned General Operating Permit (ABE), without which an e-scooter cannot be legally used on public roads and thus cannot be insured. When purchasing an e-scooter, make sure that this ABE is present. The minimum age for operating an e-scooter is 14 years; a driving licence is not required. Although wearing a helmet is not legally compulsory, it is strongly recommended because even at speeds of around 20 kilometres per hour, significant injuries can occur in the event of a fall. Our expert tip: Before travelling abroad, check whether your German insurance coverage is recognised there and what national regulations apply. Within the EU, German liability insurance is usually valid, but it is advisable to carry the International Insurance Card. In the event of an accident, just as with any other road incident, it is important to call the police, especially if people are injured or if liability is unclear. Document the damage and inform your insurance company immediately. For comprehensive coverage, a general motor vehicle liability insurance for other vehicles can also be relevant if you use more than just e-scooters.
Current Rulings and Peculiarities
Court decisions can impact the legal situation. For example, the Austrian OGH has ruled that accidents involving e-scooters on the way to work may not be covered by statutory accident insurance, as e-scooters could be classified as trendy sporting equipment. [1] This underscores the importance of having private accident and liability insurance. In Germany, it is prohibited to ride an e-scooter under the influence of alcohol. A zero alcohol limit applies to drivers under 21 and during the probationary period. [2] Violators face not only fines but also the risk of losing their insurance coverage. A registration check is advisable before each ride.
Finding the Right Cover: Tips for Comparing E-Scooter Insurance
When choosing your e-scooter insurance, you shouldn't just pay attention to the price. Compare the services carefully. A high cover amount in liability, such as 100 million euros, provides security. For partial coverage, check the covered risks (theft, vandalism, natural disasters) and the amount of any deductible. Many insurers offer a discount if you have multiple policies with them or switch to annual payment. Our expert tip: Use online comparison calculators, but also read the fine print of the top offers. Pay attention to the scope of the insurance, especially if you plan to use the e-scooter abroad. Customer service and claims processing are also important criteria. Read reviews from other customers about this. A good car insurance can serve as a reference for service quality. Remember that the insurance must be renewed annually on the first of March. Many providers will remind you in good time.
What to consider when comparing:
A good e-scooter insurance offers more than just a low price. Here are some points to consider:
Coverage amount: For liability damages, this should be at least 50 million euros, preferably 100 million euros.
Partial coverage benefits: Check if theft, vandalism, fire, and elemental damage are covered.
Deductible: A lower deductible in the event of damage means higher premiums and vice versa. Choose a value that suits you.
Scope: Is protection limited to Germany or does it apply Europe-wide?
Battery protection: Some tariffs offer special protection for the expensive battery, sometimes even with new-for-old compensation.
Cancellation periods: Look for fair cancellation conditions if you sell the e-scooter.
Claims service: How quickly and easily can the insurer be reached in the event of a claim and how is it handled?
Careful consideration of these aspects will help you find the optimal protection for your e-scooter and avoid unpleasant surprises. The general terms and conditions provide more information.
Your next step towards worry-free e-scooter riding
The right e-scooter insurance with the appropriate registration is the key to carefree riding pleasure and protects you from unforeseeable financial risks. With the insights gained here, you are well-equipped to make the best decision for you. Remember that solid basic coverage is already available for an annual contribution often under 50 Euros. Compare offers, and do not only consider the price but also the included services and the provider’s service. A well-chosen insurance is a small price for great security. At nextsure, we understand that your safety and protection are paramount. That's why we offer you transparent and needs-based insurance solutions. If you need help selecting the right e-scooter insurance or want individual advice, we are here for you. Use our expertise for your worry-free mobility. Request an individual risk analysis now: Have your insurance situation assessed free of charge and receive concrete optimization suggestions.
More useful links
KBA offers detailed information on type approval (ABE) for small electric vehicles.
The insurers (GDV) provide information on important aspects of e-scooter insurance.
Destatis (Federal Statistical Office) provides a press release that likely contains relevant statistics on e-scooters.
Gesetze im Internet offers the complete and official text of the Small Electric Vehicles Ordinance (eKFV).
TÜV-Verband provides a press release on the high safety and fire protection standards of approved e-scooters.
FAQ
What documents do I need to purchase E-Scooter insurance?
Generally, you will need the General Operating Permit (Allgemeine Betriebserlaubnis - ABE) or Single Operating Permit (Einzelbetriebserlaubnis - EBE) of your E-Scooter as well as your personal details. Sometimes the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN) is also required.
How long is an E-Scooter number plate valid?
The E-Scooter number plate is valid for one insurance year. This starts on the first of March and ends on the last day of February the following year. The colour of the number plate changes annually.
Am I allowed to lend my E-Scooter if it is insured?
Yes, usually insured parties include the policyholder and other authorised drivers. However, the driver must have reached the minimum age of 14. Check the specific conditions 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 coverage insurance including theft, the insurance usually covers the loss, often minus an excess.
Is my German E-Scooter insurance valid abroad?
Liability insurance generally applies within the geographical boundaries of Europe and the non-European territories that are part of the EU's area of validity. It is advisable to carry the International Insurance Card (Green Card) and to inform yourself in advance about the specific rules in the country you are visiting.
Do I need to wear a helmet on my E-Scooter?
No, there is no legal requirement in Germany for E-Scooter riders to wear a helmet. However, wearing a helmet is strongly recommended for safety reasons, as serious head injuries can occur even at low speeds.
