Electric scooters have become increasingly popular in Prague and throughout the Czech Republic. However, with this popularity comes a comprehensive set of regulations that every rider must understand and follow. This guide covers everything you need to know about legally operating an e-scooter in Prague and the wider Czech Republic.
Important Notice: 2026 Rental Ban
Prague City Council has approved a ban on shared e-scooter rentals effective January 2026. This affects rental services only - private ownership remains unaffected. For more details, see the section below.
Mandatory Insurance Requirements
One of the most significant regulatory changes came into effect in April 2024. E-scooter owners and operators must now carry compulsory liability insurance under specific conditions:
- Speed threshold: If your e-scooter has a maximum design speed exceeding 25 km/h, insurance is mandatory
- Weight and speed combination: Scooters weighing over 25 kg with speeds above 14 km/h also require insurance
- Design speed matters: The key factor is your scooter's design capability, not its software-limited speed. If it can be unlocked to exceed these limits, insurance is required
Insurance Verification
Since October 2024, Czech police can verify insurance status through an online database. Scooters without registration plates are identified using their frame serial numbers. Always ensure your insurance is current and easily verifiable.
Penalties for Missing Insurance
Operating without required insurance carries significant penalties:
- On-the-spot fines: Up to 10,000 CZK
- Administrative proceedings: Up to 50,000 CZK
- Personal liability for any damages caused in an accident
Traffic Rules for E-Scooter Riders
E-scooter riders in the Czech Republic must follow the same traffic rules as cyclists. Understanding these rules is essential for safe and legal riding:
Where You Can Ride
- Cycle paths: Always use designated cycle paths when available
- Carriageway: You may use the road if no cycle path exists
- Sidewalks: Riding on sidewalks is absolutely prohibited for adults
- Exception for children: Children under 10 may ride on sidewalks if they do not disturb pedestrians
No Sidewalk Riding
The Czech Transport Ministry has made it explicitly clear: electric scooters cannot be ridden on sidewalks under any circumstances for adult riders. This rule is strictly enforced, particularly in Prague's historic center.
Speed Limits and Safety Requirements
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Maximum Speed | 25 km/h |
| Helmet (Under 18) | Mandatory |
| Helmet (18+) | Recommended but not required |
| Alcohol | Absolute zero tolerance - any amount prohibited |
| Lights | Required when riding after dark |
| Minimum Age | No legal minimum age requirement |
| License Required | No driver's license needed |
The 2026 Prague Rental Ban
On October 20, 2025, Prague City Council approved a significant measure that will reshape e-scooter usage in the city. Starting January 2026, all shared electric scooter rental services will be banned within Prague city limits.
Reasons Behind the Ban
The decision came after years of complaints from residents and visitors about:
- Scooters blocking sidewalks and pedestrian areas
- Unsafe riding in pedestrian zones and historic areas
- High accident rates - Prague recorded 47 e-scooter accidents in one year compared to only 2 involving shared bikes
- General "chaos on pavements" as described by city officials
A local referendum showed overwhelming support for the ban, with 82% of Prague residents voting in favor of removing shared e-scooters from city streets.
What This Means for You
| Affected | Not Affected |
|---|---|
| Lime, Bolt, and other rental services | Privately owned e-scooters |
| Short-term tourist rentals | Personal e-scooters used daily |
| Dockless sharing systems | Shared bicycles and e-bikes |
Alternatives to Rental E-Scooters
If you are visiting Prague after January 2026 and were planning to use rental e-scooters, consider these alternatives:
- Shared bicycles: Will remain available throughout the city
- E-bike rentals: Electric bicycle services continue to operate
- Public transportation: Prague has an excellent metro, tram, and bus network
- Walking tours: The historic center is compact and walkable
Parking Regulations
For shared bikes and e-bikes (which remain legal), operators must follow specific parking rules:
- Vehicles must be parked in designated zones
- Monthly fee of 25 CZK per vehicle for parking in designated areas
- Fines of 100-1,000 CZK for improper parking
- Obstruction of sidewalks or entrances is prohibited
Regional Considerations
While this guide focuses primarily on Prague, the basic traffic rules and insurance requirements apply throughout the Czech Republic. However, some municipalities may have additional local regulations:
- Some smaller towns may have designated e-scooter zones
- Tourist areas might have specific restrictions during peak seasons
- Always check local signage and regulations when visiting new areas
Resources and Further Reading
For official information and updates, we recommend consulting these authoritative sources:
- Prague City Hall (Praha.eu) - Official city announcements
- Czech Ministry of Transport - National transportation regulations
- Czech Police - Enforcement and safety information
Stay Updated
Regulations can change. This article was last updated in February 2026. We recommend checking official sources before your trip for the most current information.