Summary

• Legal Classification: Electric scooters and motorcycles are legally defined as motor vehicles and must be properly registered to be used on public roads.
• Permit Required: Riders are required by law to hold a valid driving permit for the specific class of vehicle they are operating.
• Enforcement & Safety: Violators will face legal enforcement action, and the Licensing Authority reserves the right to refuse vehicle registration on safety grounds.

 

 

INDIVIDUALS driving electric scooters and motorcycles on the nation’s roads without proper registration can be charged for violating the law.

The Ministry of Transport and Civil Aviation, in a media release on Tuesday, stated, “These electric scooters and motorcycles are mechanically propelled and thus fall within the definition of motor vehicles under the Motor Vehicles and Road Traffic Act, Chapter 48:50, which regulates the use of motor vehicles on the nation’s roads.”

The public is reminded that under Section 12(1) of the Act, it is an offence for any person to use, keep for use, or permit the use of a motor vehicle that is not legally registered.

Additionally, pursuant to Section 42(1) of the Motor Vehicles and Road Traffic Act, it is an offence to drive these vehicles on public roads unless the driver holds a valid driving permit for that specific class of motor vehicle.

Individuals found in contravention of these provisions will be subject to enforcement action in accordance with the law, the ministry warned.

The ministry is urging all road users to comply with legal requirements to ensure public safety and the responsible use of the nation’s roadways.

Members of the public are also advised that the Licensing Authority reserves the right to refuse registration on the grounds of safety, in accordance with Section 27 of the Act.