The new rules apply to scooters with a maximum speed of 20 km/h, and riders must comply with the same traffic rules as bicycles, including not riding on sidewalks. Scooter riders are advised to wear helmets, though it is not compulsory.

The two-wheeled scooters have been attracting a growing number of users in Japan, especially in metropolitan areas. Accidents and traffic rule violations, such as riding under the influence of alcohol, have been rising in line with their growth in popularity. Parliament amended the road traffic law in April last year to effect the rule change. Police will strictly enforce the new rules while working to inform the public of the changes.

Electric scooters that come under the new rules must measure 190 cm or less in length and 60 cm or less in width. They may also be used on sidewalks as long as their maximum speed is set to 6 km/h or less, similar to electric wheelchairs.

Previously, electric scooters were classified the same as mopeds under 50 cubic centimeters in engine displacement, requiring riders to hold a driver’s licence, wear a helmet, and have the vehicle registered with a licence plate. Those that comply with the new regulation will now be classified as designated motorised bicycles.

The new rules also call for e-scooters to be equipped with green lights at the front and back, which must be illuminated while driving on roads and bicycle lanes and must flash while on sidewalks.

Traffic tickets will be issued or fines imposed on riders who violate traffic laws. Those who repeatedly run red lights or drive in unauthorised areas will be required to sit for lectures.

Electric scooters that have already been in use or on the market and satisfy standards other than the installation of green lights can continue to be used until December 2024, but they must bear a special licence plate. Such vehicles still cannot be used on sidewalks.

Other electric scooters that do not meet the standards are treated as mopeds, which require riders to have a licence and wear a helmet.