Road rules for electric kickboards will change as of July 1, 2023

2023/06/21 Wednesday Announcements, Security

As of July 1, 2023, traffic rules for electric kickboards will change.  Kickboards that meet all of the following criteria may be driven without a license, but persons under the age of 16 will not be able allowed  to drive.

Electric kickboards that can be ridden at speeds of up to 30 km/h are now considered common motorized bicycles and require a license, so care must be taken when using them.

  • Vehicle size must not exceed 190 cm in length and 60 cm in width.
  • An electric motor with a rated power of 0.60 kilowatts or less must be used as the main motor
  • Must not be able to reach a speed greater than 20 kilometers per hour
  • It must not be possible to change the maximum speed setting while the vehicle is in motion
  • Must be equipped with an automatic transmission mechanism (AT)
  • The vehicle must be equipped with a maximum speed indicator light
  • Must comply with the safety standards of the Road Cargo Transport Vehicle Law (Douro Unsou Sharyohou – 道路運送車両法)
  • Have a civil liability insurance contract for mutual assistance motor vehicles (Jidousha Songai Baisho Sekinin Hokei Kyozai – 自動車損害賠償責任保険(共済))
  • Must be equipped with a sign (number plate)

Observations

  • Those under the age of 16 is not allowe drive.
  • When driving, be sure to wear a helmet.
  • Drunk driving is prohibited.
  • Obey traffic lights and vehicle signs.
  • On roads where there is a distinction between crosswalks and carriageways, you should stay on the left side of the lane.
  •  Inquiries (in Japanese only)

Mie-ken Kankyo Seikatsu-bu Kurashi Koutsu Anzen-ka Koutsu Anzen-han (三重県 環境生活部 くらし・交通安全課 交通安全班)

TEL: 059-224-2410