If you’re planning to explore the city on two wheels, it’s smart to understand the rules before you go. Electric scooter rentals are popular in Paris, but like any vehicle, there are clear requirements and legal guidelines attached to using one.
Whether you’re booking a guided experience or renting an e-scooter for independent use, you’ll need to know how the process works, what documents are required, and what French law expects from riders.
Here’s a practical breakdown — both general rules across Paris and what you can expect when renting through Badass Tours Paris.
How to rent a scooter
In general
In Paris today, shared dockless e-scooters (the app-based ones scattered around the city) were removed in 2023 following a city vote. That means you can’t simply unlock a random scooter on the street anymore.
Instead, scooters are typically available through:
- Guided tour companies
- Specialty rental shops
- Private rental providers
The process usually includes:
- Booking in advance (online or in person)
- Presenting a valid ID
- Signing a liability waiver
- Receiving a safety briefing
- Inspecting the scooter before departure
Most rental companies will walk you through basic controls and safety expectations before you ride.
At Badass Tours Paris
At Badass, we specialize in guided electric scooter experiences rather than open-ended independent rentals. The process is straightforward:
- Book your tour in advance
- Arrive a few minutes early
- Present a valid government-issued ID
- Sign a waiver
- Complete a short safety and riding demo
We provide mandatory training and make sure every rider is comfortable before leaving. If someone isn’t ready, we take extra time to practice in a controlled area.
E-scooter rental requirements
France regulates electric scooters under national traffic law.
As of current regulations:
- Riders must be at least 14 years old to operate an e-scooter.
- Maximum speed is limited to 25 km/h (15.5 mph).
- No driver’s license is required.
- Scooters are intended for one rider only (no passengers).
- Insurance coverage is typically required for operators; rental companies generally carry commercial insurance for their fleet.
Most rental or tour companies require:
- A valid ID
- A signed liability waiver
- Agreement to follow French traffic laws
Helmets are not legally mandatory for adults riding in urban areas under current French law, but they are strongly recommended. Many companies provide helmets as a safety best practice.
At Badass Tours Paris, helmets are provided and their use is required during the tour. Safety equipment is included with your tour — we want guests to ride confidently and responsibly.
For official French regulations, you can review the government’s guidance here:
https://www.service-public.fr/particuliers/vosdroits/F308
Always check for the most up-to-date rules before riding.
The rules of the road
If you’re riding an e-scooter in Paris, you are considered a road user. That means you must follow the same general traffic laws as cyclists.
Here are the most important rules:
- Ride in bike lanes where available.
- If no bike lane exists, you may ride on roads with speed limits of 50 km/h (31 mph) or less.
- Do not ride on sidewalks.
- Obey traffic signals and signs.
- Use lights at night or in low visibility.
- No passengers.
Paris has significantly expanded its cycling infrastructure over the past decade, making it more accommodating for alternative mobility. Still, riders must stay alert and predictable.
When you’re on a guided tour, your guide manages route selection and pacing. They’ll instruct you when to slow down, where to position yourself, and how to approach intersections safely. It removes much of the guesswork.
If you’re renting independently, it’s your responsibility to understand and comply with French regulations before you ride.
Pick-up and drop-off
In general
For most rental providers:
- Pick-up occurs at a designated storefront or meeting point.
- You’ll inspect the scooter for visible damage.
- Staff will confirm battery level and operational status.
- At drop-off, the scooter is re-inspected.
Late returns may incur additional fees. Damage beyond normal wear and tear may also result in charges depending on the rental agreement.
At Badass Tours Paris
Because we focus on guided experiences, pick-up and drop-off are structured around the tour schedule.
- You meet at a designated location.
- Scooters are distributed after the safety briefing.
- After the tour, scooters are returned to our storage location by the team.
There’s no need to worry about parking logistics or navigating city rules on your own — we handle the operational side.
Conclusion
Renting an e-scooter in Paris isn’t complicated — but it does come with responsibilities.
You’ll need a valid ID, you’ll sign a waiver, and you’ll be expected to follow French traffic laws. The city has adapted to alternative mobility over the years, but riders still share space with cars, cyclists, and pedestrians.
If you’re unsure about navigating independently, a guided experience can simplify the process. Either way, understanding the rules ahead of time makes the ride smoother, safer, and far more enjoyable.
Paris is best explored with awareness — and a little preparation goes a long way.
