Many users of electric scooters and bicycles in Portugal are unknowingly operating their vehicles illegally, facing potential fines and seizures due to specific power and speed limits.
Portuguese law strictly defines these vehicles, categorizing them based on maximum speed and motor power. Exceeding these thresholds reclassifies them as mopeds, triggering additional legal requirements.
Electric scooters and bicycles that surpass a top speed of 25 kilometers per hour or have a motor power exceeding 250 watts fall into the moped category. This means they require a license plate, civil liability insurance, an approved helmet, and an appropriate driving license (category AM or higher).
Failure to comply with these rules can result in significant fines, the immediate seizure of the vehicle, and personal liability in the event of an accident. Many vehicles purchased online or imported often do not meet these specific Portuguese legal standards, leading to widespread non-compliance.
For electric scooters to be considered equivalent to bicycles, they must adhere to the 25 km/h speed limit and 250-watt power cap. These legal scooters can then operate on bike lanes, urban roads with a 50 km/h limit, and “zone 30” areas. They must also be equipped with lights, reflectors, and a bell, and are permitted to carry only one occupant.
Similarly, legal electric bicycles must have a motor that only assists the rider while pedaling, stopping assistance at 25 km/h, and not exceeding 250 watts. Any model with an independent accelerator or exceeding these limits is also considered a moped.
Users are advised to meticulously check the technical specifications of their electric scooters or bicycles before purchase or use to ensure they comply with national regulations. While electric mobility offers benefits for reducing traffic and emissions, it must be exercised safely and responsibly within legal frameworks.