RTO Rules for Electric Two Wheelers

Following are some of the important electric scooter RTO rules you should know about:

Minimum Age to Ride

The minimum age to ride an electric two-wheeler in India is 18, just like the legal age for driving any other kind of vehicle. However, there is some relaxation. If your electric bike has a maximum speed of 25 km per hour and runs on a power of 250W, then it can be driven by people 16 years of age and older.

Driving Licence for Electric Scooters**

To drive any kind of vehicle in India, you must have a valid driving licence. Electric scooters are no exception. You might end up facing some serious fines and penalties if you are caught riding your electric bike without a driving licence.

E-scooter Registration

You can not drive an unregistered electric two wheeler or any other kind of vehicle on the public roads of the country. Doing so can have serious legal consequences. So, as soon as you purchase your electric scooter, register it with the RTO in your area. This is one of the most important steps you need to take.

Helmet Usage

Is a helmet required for an electric scooter? This is one of the most common questions asked by new electric scooter owners. While it’s true that electric bikes are lightweight and safe to ride, they are still prone to road accidents. So, yes. Wearing a helmet is crucial when driving an electric scooter. It is not only a necessity but also a mandatory requirement.

Road Tax

Every owner of a registered two-wheeler, irrespective of whether he has a two-wheeler or a four-wheeler, is mandated to pay road taxes. Note that the total amount you are required to pay in the form of taxes will depend on the features, model and age of your vehicle.

Here is good news for electric scooter owners: the government of India has introduced a scheme called FAME which offers subsidies and other perks to encourage people to buy EVs instead of conventional vehicles.

One of the benefits offered by this scheme is road tax exemption in some Indian states. You can avail 50% to 100% tax road tax exemption for your electric scooter if you belong to certain states.

Check out the link for more information on available subsidies for your electric two-wheeler.

Number Plate Requirements for Electric Vehicles

With respect to the traffic regulations laid under the Motor Vehicles Act 1989, it is mandatory for every vehicle registered after April 2019 to have a High-Security Registration Plate (HSRP).

This number plate must be assigned by the authorised officers. Moreover, to differentiate between the types of vehicle, different colour codes are assigned to the number plates for different types of vehicles, such as:

• White background with black letters: For private ICE vehicles

• Black background with yellow letters: For Rental vehicles

• Yellow background with black letters: For commercial ICE vehicles

• Green background with white letters: For private EVs.

• Green background with yellow letters: For commercial EVs.

So, as you can see, your electric scooter must have a green number plate with white letters. Note that electric bicycles and scooters with a speed of a maximum of 25 km/hr are not mandated to have an HSRP.

Insurance Policy for Bike

As per the Motor Vehicles Act of India, every bike owner must possess at least a third-party bike insurance. This legal requirement stands true for an electric two-wheeler as well. The right bike insurance not only helps you meet traffic regulations but also offers you the required financial protection during unexpected situations on the road.

Electric scooters are environmentally friendly and capable of offering nearly the same performance and driving experience as the conventional two-wheelers.

So, if you are in need of a two-wheeler, consider getting a stylish electric scooter. We have already discussed the traffic rules for electric scooters in this blog for your reference.

Already purchased an electric scooter? If yes, don’t forget to insure it. Visit Tata AIG today to purchase suitable electric 2-wheeler insurance online.

Which is the best e-bike in India?

There are many reputed EV manufacturers in India known for their high-performing electric scooters. These include Ather Energy, Bajaj, TVS, Ola, etc. However, the choice of the best e-bike will ultimately be based on your personal preferences and budget.

Is triple-riding on e-scooters considered a traffic offence?

No, triple riding on any motorbike or scooter is considered a traffic violation in India. Not only is it risky, but it also attracts hefty fines.