Riding electric skating shoes on public roads: tech fun or a clear legal violation?
With the rise of smart and sustainable mobility, the last few years have seen the emergence of electric skating shoes (E-Skates) – shoes with integrated wheels and a small electric motor, allowing users to glide along at speeds of up to 20 km/h or more.
Despite their technological appeal, using them on public roads in Germany is subject to strict rules and often leads to fines and sometimes confiscation of the device.
What are electric skating shoes (E-Skates)?
similar to traditional skates, but equipped with battery-powered motors
controlled via a hand-held remote or body movements
typically used on paved paths, parks or private facilities
Legal situation in Germany
As of mid-2025, E-Skates are not recognised as official vehicles by the Federal Motor Transport Authority (Kraftfahrt-Bundesamt). The reasons:
| Criterion | Status of E-Skates |
|---|---|
| Official vehicle approval / registration | Not available |
| Mandatory liability insurance | Currently not possible |
| Official vehicle identification number (ID) | Not issued |
| Permission to use public roads | Legally prohibited |
As a result, using these shoes on public roads, cycle paths or pavements is considered a traffic violation and can lead to fines and confiscation of the device.
What penalties can apply?
| Type of use | Possible penalty | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Riding E-Skates on the road or pavement | Fine of up to approx. €70 | Depends on city and circumstances |
| Causing an accident or obstructing traffic | Civil liability + compensation | Possible claim for negligence |
| Riding without insurance cover | Up to approx. €150 + 1 point | Linked to the Compulsory Insurance Act |
| Riding under the influence of alcohol | Fine + points + driving ban | Rules similar to E-scooters may apply |
Real-life example
In Stuttgart, a 19-year-old was stopped on a busy shopping street in the evening while riding E-Skates.
Consequences:
€55 traffic fine
Temporary confiscation of the skates
A formal warning not to repeat the behaviour
When is the use of E-Skates allowed?
on private property such as yards, private parks or training halls
at officially authorised events such as tech festivals or company shows
in closed areas blocked off from normal traffic with special permission from local authorities
Conclusion
Electric skating shoes may look like a mobility gadget from the future, but German traffic law still does not recognise them as legal means of transport in public space.
Until there is a specific legal framework, using them on public streets, bike lanes or pavements remains a clear legal violation.
The golden rule:
If a vehicle has no registration and no liability insurance, it does not belong on the road.
The editorial team of this website strives to provide accurate information based on thorough research and multiple sources. However, errors or incomplete information may still occur. Please treat the content of this article as an initial point of reference and always consult the competent authorities for binding and up-to-date legal information.
