Electric scootering in Italy: here’s what you need to know
Since 2019, it has been possible to use a monopattino elettrico, or electric scooter, in Italy. But how do you use these electric two-wheelers yourself and what traffic rules do you need to take into account? We list it.
The rules for using an e-scooter in Italy
As a driver of an electric scooter in Italy, you follow the same traffic rules as cyclists. Here are the most important rules for tourists:
- The minimum age for using an e-scooter is 16 years;
- There is no driving licence requirement;
- A helmet requirement applies to drivers up to 18 years of age;
- In the dark, wearing a reflective safety vest is mandatory;
- More than one person is not allowed to ride a scooter;
- Drivers use the cycle path if it is available or on the carriageway, provided the speed limit here does not exceed 50 km/h;
- It is forbidden to drive on the pavement;
- Special liability insurance is not mandatory.
Please note that breaking one or more rules can result in a (hefty) fine. Always follow national traffic rules.
As a tourist, how do you use an e-scooter in Italy?
In several Italian cities, you can use shared e-scooters. These can be located and unlocked with a mobile app. This works as follows:
Which shared-scooter providers operate in Italy?
Each city or municipality has its own agreements with shared-scooter providers. The largest providers in Italy are:
| City | Provider |
| Ferrara | Dott |
| Florence | Bird |
| Milan | Dott, Lime, Voi |
| Monza | Dott |
| Rimini | Lime |
| Rome | Bird, Dott, Lime, Link, Tier, Voi |
| Palermo | Dott |
| Turin | Dott, Lime |
| Verona | Dott, Lime |
What are the costs?
To use a shared-scooter, you pay a starting rate and a rate per minute. These charges vary from provider to provider.
On average, you pay £1 to unlock a scooter. Then you pay £0.25 per minute to use it. So for a 15-minute ride, you pay £4.75.
Tip: take advantage of free rides
Through their app, most providers give the option of sharing a ‘referral code’ with someone. This personal code can be found in the app.
Are you going on a ride with two or more people? Then take advantage of free rides in the following way:
