Newsroom
Cyprus is tightening its rules on electric scooters and other personal micro-mobility devices, with Parliament approving a higher minimum age and new safety requirements.
Under the changes, only individuals aged 17 and over will be allowed to use these devices, replacing the previous limit of 14. Lawmakers said the new threshold aligns with the minimum age for obtaining a learner’s driving permit, framing the move as a step toward greater road safety for minors.
Alongside the age increase, Parliament also introduced requirements for scooters to meet European safety standards. Devices must now carry proper certification markings, and police will have the authority to temporarily confiscate them if users violate regulations.
However, a more drastic proposal, to ban scooters entirely from public spaces, did not pass. Although some MPs argued that accidents involving young riders are becoming increasingly common and that weak enforcement and poor infrastructure make conditions unsafe, the majority rejected a blanket ban.
The centered on tension between safety concerns and the role of micro-mobility in modern transport. Supporters of stricter regulation acknowledged risks but emphasized that scooters offer an affordable and environmentally friendly alternative to cars. They argued that the real issue lies in the lack of infrastructure, clear rules, and enforcement, not the devices themselves.
Several lawmakers pointed out that since legislation was first introduced in 2022, little progress has been made in building the necessary infrastructure or implementing oversight measures such as registration systems or insurance frameworks. Some of these ideas were initially included in new proposals but were later dropped due to legal concerns.
There were also warnings about unintended consequences. With upcoming licensing changes for motorcycle drivers, some MPs suggested delivery services may increasingly turn to electric bicycles, which currently face fewer regulatory requirements despite being capable of high speeds.
Environmental arguments also featured prominently in the discussion. Some MPs stressed that reducing car use should remain a priority, noting the impact of traffic on air quality and public health. From this perspective, restricting micro-mobility too heavily could undermine efforts to promote cleaner urban transport.
