Home Mandatory Electric Scooter Insurance and Registration Now Active in Barcelona

Mandatory Electric Scooter Insurance and Registration Now Active in Barcelona

Carmen Ruiz MartinezFebruary 14, 20262 Mins read14

Summarize:

Mandatory Electric Scooter Insurance and Registration Now Active in Barcelona

Date of Publication: February 13, 2026

Last Updated: February 14, 2026

Applies to: All electric scooter owners and users in Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain

As of January 30, 2026, the National Registry of Light Personal Vehicles (VMP) is operational, making it a mandatory step for electric scooter owners to secure the compulsory insurance stipulated by the Motor Insurance Law. Starting this February 2026, all VMPs must be insured to legally circulate in Barcelona.

The Motor Insurance Law, in effect since July 25, 2025, mandates insurance for electric scooters nationwide. The law also defines a Light Personal Vehicle (VMP) to include those used for urban mobility.

National Registry of Light Personal Vehicles

The Directorate-General for Traffic (DGT) has launched the National Registry of Light Personal Vehicles, a new mandatory process for insuring electric scooters. This registry, approved by the Council of Ministers, has been active since January 30, 2026.

Obligation to Register

Owners or legal guardians of electric scooters must register their VMP through the DGT’s electronic headquarters. This is a compulsory step before purchasing insurance. The entire process is conducted online, with assistance available via phone at 060.

Once the owner receives a digital registration certificate, they can acquire an identification label and affix it to the designated area on their scooter.

Change of Ownership

If an already registered scooter changes ownership, the transfer must be requested within 30 days. The following must be submitted:

Required documentation
Vehicle identification number
New owner’s details

Upon validation, the DGT will issue a new digital certificate, retaining the VMP’s original identification number.

Deregistering a VMP

The definitive deregistration of a scooter must be carried out at an authorized vehicle treatment center. These centers will electronically communicate the deregistration and destruction of the vehicle to the National Vehicle Registry.

Penalties for Non-Compliance

The Barcelona Urban Guard will fine and impound uninsured VMPs circulating on public roads.

Failure to register the VMP: Fines between 202 and 610 euros.
Circulating without insurance: Between 250 and 800 euros, depending on whether the vehicle is classified as a VMP or a motor vehicle (over 25 kg and exceeding 14 km/h).

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

When did the mandatory insurance and registration come into effect?

The National Registry of Light Personal Vehicles became operational on January 30, 2026. All VMPs must be insured and registered from February 2026 onwards.

How do I register my electric scooter?

You must register your VMP online through the DGT’s electronic headquarters. Assistance is available by calling 060.

What documents do I need for registration?

The article states “required documentation” but does not specify further. It is advisable to have personal identification and vehicle details ready.

What happens after I register?

You will receive a digital registration certificate. You can then obtain an identification label to place on your scooter.

What if I sell my electric scooter?

You must request a change of ownership within 30 days, providing the necessary documentation, the vehicle’s identification number, and the new owner’s details.

How do I deregister my VMP?

Deregistration must be done at an authorized vehicle treatment center, which will electronically notify the National Vehicle Registry.

What are the penalties for not complying with the new regulations?

Fines range from 202 to 610 euros for not registering, and 250 to 800 euros for circulating without insurance.

Where can I get help with the registration process?

The DGT offers assistance via phone at 060.