Regulations for Electric scooters

Is an electric scooter with a throttle permitted in the Netherlands?

Since July 1, 2025, electric scooters with a throttle approved by the RDW (Netherlands Vehicle Authority) are permitted in the Netherlands. It's important to note that a distinction was made between scooters with a throttle and scooters with pedal assistance.

e-Scooter with a throttle

A scooter with a throttle must be inspected by the RDW (Netherlands Vehicle Authority) and will then receive national type approval if it meets a long list of requirements (including, for example, a rearview mirror). A very limited number of scooters are currently approved. For an overview, check the RDW website here. Other scooters with a throttle may be sold, but only used on private property.

Why is a scooter with pedal assistance allowed on public roads?

A scooter with pedal assistance falls under bicycle legislation. Explanation: from a legal point of view, a scooter with step assistance is equated with a bicycle with pedal assistance. This is possible because so far there is no clear definition in the law of what a bicycle is. This means that electric scooters with scooter support, just like electric bicycles, can legally hit the road. Just like the e-bike, these do not have to be inspected by the RDW. We sell the Colibri NL as a scooter with pedal assistance.