Norway proposes raising electric scooter age limit to 16

The Norwegian government has proposed raising the minimum age for operating electric scooters from 12 to 16 years old. This proposal follows a sharp increase in injuries among children and adolescents using these vehicles between 2024 and 2026.

Transport Minister Kamzy Gunaratnam stated that the measure is necessary to reduce serious accidents, noting that many individuals involved in traffic incidents are between the ages of 12 and 16. An assessment by the Norwegian Public Roads Administration indicated that younger users often lack the traffic knowledge required to navigate complex situations and interact safely with other road users. Specifically, 14 and 15-year-olds are frequently involved in accidents characterized by high speeds and risky riding behavior.

The proposal will be sent for public consultation. The government is also considering broader helmet requirements and policies to target illegal electric scooters, aligning with several other European nations and existing age limits set by many private rental companies in Norway.