Following the commencement of new regulations under the Road Traffic and Roads Act 2023, the use of e-scooters will be restricted to over-16s.

Powerful e-mopeds that can go markedly faster than fast cyclists will need vehicle registration and, in some cases, to be licensed and insured.

Transport minister Eamon Ryan said: “These regulations, which are just one part of the comprehensive Road Traffic and Roads Act 2023, will help make our roads safer for all road users and give legal certainty to those who are choosing to get around on new forms of mobility.

“Over the past few years, we’ve seen more and more e-scooter and e-bikes on our roads.

“Since they first appeared, many have developed and have become more powerful and these regulations set out clearly how they can all be used in our evolving transport landscape, safely and with respect for other road users, in particular those most vulnerable on our roads like pedestrians and cyclists. They will also help future-proof Ireland’s regulatory system to ensure that we can adapt to new technologies as they continue to emerge.

“I hope these provisions will also give confidence to more people to choose new ways to travel that help them avoid congestion and gridlock.

“They will also contribute to freeing up road space, which in turn means that we can allocate more space to provide improved, faster and more frequent public transport and walking and cycling infrastructure for everyone.”

Minister of state Jack Chambers added: “I welcome the publication of the regulations for e-scooters and e-bikes which will bring clarity for road users, ensuring greater safety on our roads.

“More people are choosing these types of vehicles to get around cities, towns, and villages all over our country and it is essential we have a proper system of regulation and technical requirements for e-scooters.

“The regulations have been developed in consultation with a range of stakeholders and will be kept under ongoing review as this type of transit continues to evolve.

“The Road Safety Authority will be rolling out an extensive public information and awareness campaign to inform the general public of the new regulations and, in particular, users of these vehicles of their requirements so they can be used in a safe and legal manner.”