Introduction
Electric Scooter Licensing Requirements in India: What You Need to Know Electric scooters have become increasingly popular in India as a convenient and eco-friendly mode of transportation. However, many riders are unsure about the legal requirements for riding an electric scooter, particularly whether a license is needed. In this guide, we’ll explore the regulations surrounding electric scooters in India and whether you need a license to ride one.
Legal Requirements for Riding an Electric Scooter
According to Indian law, any two-wheeler, including electric scooters, requires a valid driving license for riding on public roads. This means that if you want to ride an electric scooter in India, you must have a valid license.
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Registering Your Electric Scooter in India
Registering your electric scooter in India is mandatory to ensure its legality and roadworthiness. To register your scooter, you need to visit your nearest Regional Transport Office (RTO) and carry all necessary documents, including proof of identity, address proof, and proof of purchase for the scooter. Additionally, you’ll need to provide the vehicle’s insurance certificate, pollution under control (PUC) certificate, and a filled-out registration form.
Minimum Age Requirement for Electric Scooter Riders
The minimum age requirement for driving an electric scooter in India is 18 years. Individuals below this age are not eligible to obtain a driving license and are not allowed to ride electric scooters on public roads.
Learner License Registration for Electric Scooters
If you want to learn how to ride an electric scooter, you’ll need to obtain a learner license. To do this, visit the RTO and submit the necessary documents, including identity proof, address proof, and age proof. The learner’s license allows you to practice riding the scooter under the supervision of a licensed rider.
Types of Electric Motorcycle Licenses
In India, there are two types of motorcycle licenses for electric bikes: M1 and M2. An M1 license allows you to operate any form of electric motorcycle, including full-fledged bikes with more than 150 cc of horsepower, electric motor-driven cycles, electric mopeds, and electric scooters. On the other hand, an M2 license is more restrictive and only allows you to ride a moped or motorized bicycle at a speed of less than 30 miles per hour.
Electric Bikes vs. Electric Motorcycles: License Requirements
It’s important to understand the difference between electric bikes and electric motorcycles when it comes to license requirements. Electric bikes, often known as e-bikes, can be ridden without a license if they have a top speed of up to 28 mph. However, any form of electric motorcycle, including motorized cycles, mopeds, and commercial motorized EV scooters, requires a license to operate.
Laws and Regulations for Electric Bikes in India
The laws and regulations surrounding electric bikes in India are different from those for conventional motorbikes. Electric bikes with motors with a power watt of less than 250 watts and a maximum top speed of up to 25 kilometers per hour do not require registration, taxes, or insurance.
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Benefits of Having a License for an Electric Bike in India
Having a license for an electric bike in India has several advantages. It validates your driving skills, acts as proof of identity, nationality, and age, and is valid throughout the country for 20 years.
Requirement for New Laws
As the distinction between electric bikes and electric motorcycles blurs and the usage of two-wheeled electric vehicles grows, the regulations governing these vehicles must evolve to keep up.
List of RTO Rules and Regulations for Electric Bikes and Scooters
- Driving License: Electric two-wheelers require a valid driving license. Under any accidental circumstances, your insurance provider will refuse any claim settlement in the absence of a DL.
- Minimum Age Criteria: An electric two-wheeler requires the user to be at least 18 years old.
- Necessity of Insurance: Bike insurance is a must for every electric two-wheeler.
- The Necessity of Number Plate: A High-Security Number Plate has been made mandatory for every Indian vehicle from 1st April 2019.
- Necessity of Helmet: While driving or riding an electric scooter or bike, you must ensure to wear a proper helmet at all times.
- Registration of Electric Two-Wheelers in India: Registration is mandatory for electric scooters.
- Tax on Electric Scooters and Bikes: As soon as you register your vehicle, you become eligible to pay road tax for the concerned vehicle.
Conclusion
In conclusion, having a valid driving license is mandatory for riding an electric scooter in India. Adhering to the legal requirements ensures safety, legality, and compliance with motor vehicle laws. It’s important to understand and comply with all legal requirements to avoid heavy fines and legal liability.
