Electric scooters have sparked a heated debate in Spain, with their presence on city streets causing a range of issues. From sidewalk riding to traffic law violations, these scooters have become a controversial topic. The Spanish traffic authorities (DGT) have stepped in to address these concerns, implementing a mandatory registration process for personal mobility vehicles (PMVs).
This new regulation defines PMVs as single-seat, electric-powered vehicles capable of reaching speeds between 6 and 25 km/h. To ensure compliance, owners must register their scooters and display an identification sticker. The DGT has approved a list of makes and models, and owners must ensure their scooters meet these specifications.
The Registration Process
PMV owners can register their scooters either in person at DGT offices or online. They'll need to provide technical details, proof of serial number, and pay a fee. Upon successful registration, owners receive a PDF certificate and a unique registration number.
However, if a scooter isn't on the approved list, owners can still register it temporarily, but only until January 2027. After this date, they'll need to purchase a new, approved model. This has sparked frustration among users, with many questioning the fate of their existing, functional scooters.
Leading manufacturers like Segway acknowledge the complexity of the situation. While the measure enhances traceability and safety, it also imposes an additional cost on existing scooter owners, potentially influencing future purchasing decisions.
Registration and Insurance
Scooters will now have registration numbers, similar to cars and motorcycles. Once registered, users must have the number printed at an authorized center and present the certificate to purchase mandatory insurance, which costs around 50 euros per year.
Even if you buy a new scooter, you still need to go through the registration process. Most new scooters come with compliant registration certificates, but online registration errors due to server overload have been reported.
Deregistration and Fines
The new regulations also require the deregistration of old or unused scooters, similar to the process for cars and mopeds. Owners must hand over their PMV to an authorized scrap yard or recycling center and then process permanent deregistration with the traffic department. If they sell the scooter, deregistration isn't necessary, as the buyer is responsible for registering it in their name.
These new measures aim to improve safety and accountability on Spain's streets. While they may cause some inconvenience and additional costs for scooter owners, they're a necessary step towards ensuring the responsible use of electric scooters in urban areas.
