45 km/h or 125? Which e-scooter matches your driver’s license?
Of all the questions surrounding e-scooters, one in particular is a real headache: What kind of driver’s license do I actually need? Let’s start with the good news: In Switzerland, the rules are clearer than many people think. And if you already have a driver’s license, you’re closer to your goal than you realize.
Here’s an honest overview: Which category applies to which scooter, what the minimum age is, and which type fits your everyday life.
Two Classes That Matter to Commuters
When it comes to urban e-scooters, two vehicle classes are particularly relevant. Both fall under Category A1, but the difference lies in the details:
- The 45-km/h scooter (small motorcycle): Category A1, ages 15 and up, yellow license plate.
- The 125 (up to 125 cc or a maximum of 11 kW): Category A1, age 16 and older, white license plate.
The 45-km/h scooter: a relaxed ride through the city
For the typical urban commute, a 45-km/h model is usually more than enough. You’ll have no trouble keeping up with city traffic, can easily pass through traffic jams, and generally enjoy lower running costs—a lower insurance class and often lower purchase price. Starting at age 15, you’re allowed to ride a small motorcycle like this with a Category A1 license; these are identifiable by their yellow license plate. For many who use a scooter primarily for commuting to work and running errands in the city, this is exactly the right category: uncomplicated, economical, and practical for everyday use. In urban areas, where the speed limit is 50 or 30 anyway, traveling at 45 km/h in real traffic means you’re hardly giving up any speed.
The 125: When You Want to Go a Little Further
If you regularly ride on main roads, cover longer distances outside of town, or simply want more power when accelerating, a 125cc bike will make for a more comfortable ride. With up to 11 kW of power, you’ll breeze through faster stretches and up hills where a 45cc bike is starting to reach its limits. The A1 license category covers this as well, though you must be at least 16 years old and have a white license plate. The price you pay for the extra speed and flexibility: slightly higher purchase and maintenance costs. But if you have to head out of town anyway, you’ll have a much more relaxed ride.
What about the slower classes?
For the sake of completeness: Very slow electric vehicles traveling at speeds up to 25 km/h (light motorized bicycles, 500 watts) can be driven by anyone 16 years of age or older without a driver’s license, but they do not require a license plate or the same type of insurance. However, for a full-fledged seated scooter that’s really meant to keep up in city traffic, these aren’t serious alternatives—the real action happens at 45 km/h and with the 125cc class.
Do you already have a driver’s license? Then it’ll be easy.
This is the point that surprises most people and often makes getting started much easier than expected: Anyone who holds a Category B driver’s license (obtained after April 1, 2003) is allowed to ride a 125cc e-scooter without taking a motorcycle test.
This requires a basic practical training course (PGS): 12 hours, divided into three sessions of four hours each. In these sessions, you’ll learn how to safely handle starting, braking, turning, and proper vision techniques while riding the scooter yourself. Afterward, Category A1 will be entered on your license “without a test”: no basic theory, no separate traffic safety training, and no practical test. Course fees typically range from CHF 500 to 900, depending on the canton and driving school. For many drivers, this is the easiest way to get on two wheels, and it’s why the transition is often easier than the initial concerns about getting a driver’s license might suggest.
45 km/h or 125—which one fits your everyday life?
The decision depends less on the spec sheet than on your approach:
- Mostly in town, short to medium distances? → A 45-km/h scooter is usually sufficient and is the cheaper, simpler choice.
- Do you regularly drive on main roads or longer stretches outside of town? → The 125 rides more smoothly.
- Do you already have a driver’s license (Class B)? → The 125cc class through the PGS is often the easiest way to get started, without the stress of exams.
In short: Check out the course first, then choose the class—not the other way around.
A Safety Note
Driver’s license regulations—and especially course fees—are subject to change and may vary by canton. Your cantonal Department of Motor Vehicles is always the best source for official information. And if you’re unsure which license class is right for you, that’s exactly what we’re here for.
Conclusion: The driver’s license issue is not an obstacle
A driver’s license is rarely the reason why an e-scooter doesn’t work out—you just need to know which class applies. 45 km/h for a relaxed ride around town, 125 for more range and speed, and for car drivers, an easy way to get started with the practical basic training.
The quickest way to figure out which option fits your daily life and your ID is to stop by our office in Regensdorf or Bern.
Until then: Have a safe ride! 🛵
