Spain to force e-scooter and e-bike riders to get insurance – here’s what you need to know

Do you enjoy zipping around the Spanish streets on an e-bike or scooter? You will not be allowed to ride legally after January 2, 2026 if you don’t have an insurance policy.

Spain has published a new law official state bulletin (BOE) This document explains who is eligible for insurance, what vehicles are excluded, and how long riders have to purchase coverage.

The government says that this move will bring order to an industry that is booming. For thousands of riders it will mean new costs, paperwork and a rethinking about their travel habits.

Who needs insurance?

Not all scooters and bikes will be affected. If you’re using one of those light rental scooters you see parked on street corners, you can relax — the companies already have their own policies in place.

Details matter if you have your own scooter or electric bike. The new law requires insurance if you:

• You can ride your scooter faster than 25 km/h.
• It can go up to 14 km/h if it weighs more than 15 kg.
• You can go faster than 25 km/h with your ebike.
• You are riding a pedal vehicle with a high power that is outside the normal EU categories. It can reach speeds of over 45 km/h.
• Use a semi-trailer or trailer attached to any of the above.

If you have a powerful, fast, or large vehicle, it is more likely that the new rules will apply. You’ll also be required to have civil liability insurance just like motorbike or car drivers.

Do you have any exceptions to the rule?

Yes – and they’re important. Not every situation calls for a policy. Consider the following:

• Exemptions apply to vehicles that have been officially deregistered at the Traffic Authority (DGT).
• Coverage is not required for trailers and semi-trailers weighing 750 kg maximum or less.
• The list excludes vehicles that are still being tested, built or transported, but they still need to be covered by other guarantees.

The law also makes clear that when vehicles are treated as goods, strict minimum cover applies: €6.45 million for personal injury and €1.3 million for property damage per accident. It’s an important safety net for victims.

When does it start?

The deadline is set for January 2, 2026. However, lawmakers have added an additional six-month grace for vehicles which were previously not considered motor vehicles but are now.

This means that you will not be fined until July 20, 2026 for not having insurance. However, if an accident happens in that time, the Insurance Compensation Consortium will pay damages – and then come after the responsible rider for reimbursement. The grace period is a way to give yourself some breathing space. However, it does not mean you get a free pass.

Why now?

You’ve probably seen it if you live in Spain: kids riding scooters without helmets and near misses at crossings. Popularity of ebikes and escooters has increased, but there are also concerns about the increasing accident rate and legal issues.

Up until now, victims of crashes involving scooters have found it difficult to receive compensation, particularly when the rider did not have insurance. The government claims the new law will ensure payouts for injured victims and bring scooters, e-bikes, and other vehicles in line with each other.

However, critics say that the move may punish cheaper and greener transport options. For young people or commuters on tight budgets, paying for an annual insurance policy might push them back towards cars or motorbikes – hardly the eco-friendly outcome cities are aiming for.

Officials insist safety and accountability comes first.

What this means to riders

Check your model if you own an electric scooter or bike in Spain. You should check the power, weight and speed limitations. If your vehicle falls into one of the new categories you will need to get an insurance policy in place before the deadline.

Insurance companies will begin offering scooter and ebike policies before 2026. The prices aren’t yet known, but will likely depend on the model and power of the e-bike, as well as whether or not you choose to add theft cover.

This is not just another piece red tape. This shows that Spain views eBikes and eScooters as real vehicles, not toys. Uninsured riders will be liable to pay thousands of Euros in fines and personal liability if they are involved in an accident.

If you’re a commuter who relies on two wheels, it is worth being ahead of the game. Soon, insurance will be just as important as your helmet.