New legislation introduced in June 2025 requires many electric scooter users in Portugal to hold third-party liability insurance. Find out if you’re affected, what the penalties are, and how C1 Broker can help you stay protected.
Legal Update: What Has Changed?
With the publication of Decree-Law No. 26/2025, which transposes EU Directive (EU 2021/2118), Portugal has officially made insurance mandatory for certain types of personal mobility vehicles, including some electric scooters.
The new rules aim to improve safety and accountability in response to the increasing number of urban accidents involving scooters and other micro-mobility vehicles.
Who Needs Insurance?
Electric scooter insurance is now compulsory for the following:
-
Scooters with a maximum speed above 25 km/h
-
Scooters weighing more than 25 kg and reaching speeds over 14 km/h
These types of vehicles are now legally classified as mopeds and must be insured accordingly.
Who Is Exempt?
The insurance requirement does not apply to:
-
Scooters weighing up to 25 kg with a top speed of 25 km/h
-
Low-powered vehicles under 0.25 kW used for recreational or children’s purposes
-
Electric wheelchairs and medical mobility devices
Even when insurance is not legally required, it is strongly recommended to have coverage in place to protect against accidents, damage or liability.
What Are the Penalties for Not Having Insurance?
Using a scooter that legally requires insurance without proper cover may result in:
-
Fines between €250 and €1,250
-
Seizure of the vehicle by authorities
-
Full personal liability for any damages, including medical bills, repairs, or legal claims
How Can C1 Broker Help?
C1 Broker offers specialised insurance solutions for electric scooters, fully aligned with the new legal framework. Our policies include:
-
Mandatory third-party liability insurance
-
Optional coverage for theft and damage
-
Legal support in case of accidents
-
The possibility to combine scooter insurance with other mobility insurance (e.g., bicycles or e-scooters)
Who Should Get Scooter Insurance?
This insurance is particularly relevant for:
-
Urban residents using scooters for daily transport
-
Expats living in Portugal looking to remain compliant with the law
-
Families with teenagers or young adults using scooters regularly
Why Insurance Matters
Even if you’re not legally required to be insured, accidents can happen. As cities become more crowded and scooter usage grows, the risk of incidents increases. Insurance gives you peace of mind — covering third-party damages, medical expenses and legal costs if things go wrong.
Speak to C1 Broker
At C1 Broker, we make compliance simple. As specialists in insurance for expats and residents in Portugal, we offer multilingual support (English, Portuguese, French, German) and tailor-made advice.
Not sure if your scooter needs insurance?
Talk to our expert team today and get a free quote with no obligation.
