So you finally decided to invest in an e-scooter since it’s cost-effective, easy to use and saves you loads of time away from traffic jams and parking spots dilemmas. That’s great! However, there’s still one thing you need to have before you can finally take your e-scooter on a ride. It would be best if you had an e-scooter permit or license to legally ride your e-scooter within the allowed zones.
If you’re wondering how you can secure your e-scooter permit and what are the step by step process for getting one, read on to find out more! It won’t take too much trouble like how you would secure your driving license, but of course, you will need to know the rules and responsibilities of being an e-scooter user in Dubai.
Contents
- Which areas will permit the use of electric scooters?
- Where can I get a permit, and how much will it cost?
- Are you required to use a helmet for your e-scooter?
- How old to use the e-scooter and get a permit?
- What happens if I don’t receive an e-scooter permit?
- Other things you must keep in mind about securing an e-scooter license:
- Where do I go to get the e-scooter permit, exactly?
The Roads and Transport Authority of Dubai stated on April 11 that electric scooters would be permitted on designated bicycle paths and in 10 areas of the city. Moreover, as of April 28, the RTA’s permit system for riders will be mandatory to boost safety for everyone.
Using an e-scooter may be easy, but it is not enough for your protection and knowledge; securing a valid e-scooter license or permit is required to operate any electric scooter or bike. This regulation was established by Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the Crown Prince of Dubai and the head of the Dubai Executive Council.
It encourages individuals to find innovative methods to travel about town and supports the city’s efforts to make it more bicycle-friendly. Additionally, it represents the conclusion of an effective test of electric scooters that began in October 2020.
Which areas will permit the use of electric scooters?
Here is the list of places e-scooter owners are allowed to use their e-scooters:
- Al Rigga
- Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Boulevard
- Jumeirah Lakes Towers
- December 2 Street
- The Palm Jumeirah
- City Walk
- Dubai Internet City
E-scooters can be used on safe roads and tracks in specific zones at:
- Al Mankhool
- Al Karama
- Al Qusais
You can ride an e-scooter on any of Dubai’s bike and scooter paths, with the exception of Al Qudra, Meydan, and Saih Assalam.
According to Mattar Al Tayer, director general and chairman of the RTA’s board of executive directors, “The selection of these districts was guided by specific criteria, including high population density, special development areas, areas served by public transportation and metro stations, the availability of integrated infrastructure, and areas with a high level of traffic safety.”
Where can I get a permit, and how much will it cost?
You can ride an e-scooter without a license if you already have a valid driver’s license for a car, motorcycle, or another type of motorized vehicle. At the end of each month, the RTA will accept online applications for learner permits from anyone who does not already possess a valid driver’s license. There will be a training course and an online exam involved. The cost of permits is nothing.
Are you required to use a helmet for your e-scooter?
Yes, it would be best if you had a helmet for head protection, which is required when you’re using them outdoors.
How old to use the e-scooter and get a permit?
There is a minimum age requirement of 16 for riders.
What happens if I don’t receive an e-scooter permit?
Yes. A fine of up to Dh200 may be imposed on anyone caught operating an e-scooter without the appropriate documentation. Take note of the full penalties you can violate when using an e-scooter in Dubai.
- Not sticking to designated routes costs Dh200, while exceeding the speed limit by more than 60kph costs Dh300.
- Reckless driving that endangers others – Dh300
- Electric scooters cost Dh200 if used illegally and Dh200 if ridden or parked on sidewalks or lanes reserved for pedestrians or joggers.
- Failure to use safety equipment costs Dh200.
- In the event of a violation of the authority-mandated speed restriction, a fine of Dh100 will be imposed.
- Carrying paying customers – Dh300
- Infraction of safety regulations – Dh200
- Using a scooter that doesn’t fulfill safety standards can cost you Dh300.
- Inappropriate parking that impedes traffic or puts people in danger costs Dh200.
- You are disobeying traffic signs is a Dh200 fine.
- Dh200 if the rider is under the age of 12 and unaccompanied by an adult of 18 years or older.
- To the tune of Dh200 is the fine for failing to dismount at pedestrian crossings.
- Dh300 fine for concealing an accident that resulted in injury or property damage if reported.
- Using the left lane or making hazardous lane changes will cost you Dh200; riding against traffic will cost you Dh200; blocking the path of other vehicles will cost you Dh300, and dragging things with your e-scooter will set you back Dh300.
- Lack of authorization to conduct group training at a training facility – Dh200 (for each trainee)
- Individual Training Sessions – Dh200
Save yourself the hassle and trouble by keeping in mind these penalties when taking your online awareness training and before getting your e-scooter permit.
Other things you must keep in mind about securing an e-scooter license:
- Locations with designated parking for shared e-scooters are typically found close to major transportation hubs and popular tourist destinations.
- Electric scooters are not permitted on paths meant for jogging or walking. Always give cyclists and pedestrians plenty of room.
- Avoid transporting people with your e-scooter at any cost. Additionally, keep in mind that RTA has established speed limits ranging from 15 to 20 kilometers per hour (kph) depending on the route.
Where do I go to get the e-scooter permit, exactly?
The permit is only issued to those who have successfully completed the online awareness training course made accessible by RTA and who are at least 16 years old.
E-scooter technical standards, user responsibilities, and permitted locations are all included in the training program. E-scooter-related traffic signs and their definitions are also covered in this course.
Using an electric scooter or a vehicle in any other category designated by the RTA without first acquiring a valid driving license is now a traffic infraction punishable by a fine of Dh200 under the new rules. Drivers with proper state licenses, foreign driver’s licenses, or motorcycle licenses are exempt from this regulation.
Securing an e-scooter license or permit doesn’t have to be as challenging as getting your UAE driving license! You can now secure your permit online and be informed about the rules and responsibilities that go along with it. Whether you’re in Dubai for vacation or long-term, having an e-scooter is one of the best ways to enjoy the city’s picturesque views and everything it offers!