Italy has rolled out new rules for electric scooters. The government published a decree that makes two things mandatory: a small identification plate for each e-scooter owner and an insurance policy that covers damage to third parties. If you ignore it, you could face a fine between €100 and €400.

When the rules start

The decree was published on 18 March. People have 60 days to register, which means the requirement becomes active on 16 May. Owners must use the national vehicle portal and log in with either a level 2 SPID account or an electronic identity card to request the plate and manage related tasks.

What you can do on the portal

  • Apply for the identification plate
  • Book pickup of the sticker at Motorizzazione or consultant offices
  • Report theft or loss of the plate
  • Request cancellation of the registration

How the plate works

The identifying tag is not glued to the vehicle forever. Instead it is linked to the owner by matching the plate code with the owner’s tax code. The plate must be fixed on the scooter either on the rear fender or on the front of the steering column.

The sticker costs €8.66 and must be paid through the national payment system. That amount breaks down as follows: €5.03 for production, €1.11 for VAT, and €2.52 as an extra charge for training, signage, and road safety activities.

Insurance rules

From the same date, third-party insurance is mandatory. This coverage pays for injuries or damage caused to others while someone is using an e-scooter, for example injuries to pedestrians or cyclists and damage to other vehicles. Annual premiums are estimated to range from €25 to €150, depending on the policy and optional guarantees chosen.

Operators push back

Shared mobility companies and trade groups reacted loudly. Assosharing says the measure is unfair and asks for urgent talks with the government. The group points out several concerns:

  • They claim the small plate fee ends up costing users around €33 once other accessory charges are added.
  • They say the registration cost for entire fleets can reach hundreds of thousands of euros per operator, which could cut operators’ revenues by roughly 5 percent.
  • They argue that forcing an auto liability model onto e-scooters is the wrong approach. For micromobility, they say the correct model is an individual liability policy rather than an auto insurance scheme.
  • The group warns that applying motor vehicle insurance standards could push yearly premiums for low-cost scooters above €100.

Consumer group view

Assoutenti has highlighted the fine level and the new obligations. Their president asked that insurance prices be consistent across the country and not vary by region. The group also reminded readers that the helmet requirement introduced in 2024 is still not always followed.

Bottom line

The new rules aim to bring more regulation to a fast-growing transport mode, but they also create new costs for both private owners and operators. Expect protests, logistics headaches for fleets, and a new paperwork step for anyone who uses or owns an e-scooter in Italy.