New Ireland e-scooter rules are set to prohibit anyone under 18 from using an e-scooter, while helmets and high-visibility clothing will become compulsory for riders of all ages.
The measures have been agreed by the Irish Government and were due to go before Cabinet for approval. The Government said the initial restrictions were expected to take effect during August.
Further legislation planned for later in 2026 would classify e-scooters as mechanically propelled vehicles, introducing licensing and registration requirements.
The proposed legislation would also prohibit:
- The sale of e-scooters to anyone under 18
- The sale of e-scooters that do not meet the legal requirements for public-road use
- The use of unlicensed or unregistered e-scooters once the new system is introduced
The Irish Government said an outright ban on e-scooters would remain under consideration.
Injuries prompt safety action
The announcement follows growing concern about serious injuries involving younger riders.
Initial figures from Children’s Health Ireland and Ireland’s Health Service Executive reportedly show that more than one-third of paediatric traumatic brain injury admissions to CHI at Temple Street during 2026 were connected to e-scooters.
Admissions involving traumatic brain injuries following e-scooter incidents were said to have increased by 50% over the previous 12 months. CHI estimates that between one and two children attend emergency departments with e-scooter injuries each day.
Enforcement activity has also increased. Ireland’s Garda Commissioner told the Government that 1,412 e-scooters had been seized and 793 prosecutions for possession recorded during 2026 at the time of the announcement.
Put your own driving or riding skills to the test
Anticipating vulnerable road users is just one part of demonstrating a consistently high standard on today’s roads. Designed for professional trainers and those who want to take their skills further, the Diamond Elite Car and Motorcycle Tests assess performance across motorways, rural roads and built-up areas, as well as a commentary drive or ride. Successful candidates receive Diamond certification valid for three years.
Wider lessons for road safety
Although these Ireland e-scooter rules will not apply in Great Britain, they demonstrate how governments are responding to the safety challenges created by rapidly changing forms of transport.
Driver and rider trainers can play an important role by helping learners understand how to anticipate the actions of e-scooter users, particularly at junctions, crossings and in busy urban areas. Riders may be difficult to see, travel faster than expected or have limited knowledge of road rules.
The proposals also underline the importance of protective equipment, conspicuity, age-appropriate access and effective enforcement when new transport modes are introduced.
Sourced via: RTÉ News.
