RCA for electric scooters. When does it become mandatory, which scooters need insurance and how much does it cost

The use of electric scooters has exploded in Romania in recent years, along with their increasing popularity and the risks in traffic. For this reason, the RCA for electric scooters will soon become mandatory under certain conditions.

The use of electric scooters has exploded in Romania in recent years. Freepik photo

The RCA Law was adopted by the Chamber of Deputies on October 22, 2025 and is to be promulgated by the President of Romania. After publication in the Official Gazette, owners of electric scooters and bicycles will have 30 days to take out the RCA policy.

This legislative amendment transposes Directive (EU) 2021/2118 into Romanian law and extends the insurance obligation to vehicles that do not require registration, but which may cause damage in traffic.

Which scooters and bikes will need RCA

Not all electric scooters will be required to have RCA. The law applies only to those who meet at least one of the following technical conditions:

• Maximum constructive speed greater than 25 km/h

• Own weight greater than 25 kg and speed greater than 14 km/h

• Electric motor with power greater than 250 W

If the scooter fits these criteria, it is considered “motor vehicle” within the meaning of the law and must be insured. Light models, used in the city at low speeds, do not fall under the new regulation.

How much will the insurance cost?

As for the price of an RCA policy for electric scooters, this is yet to be determined, but will be influenced by several factors, including:

• Engine type and power

• Purpose of use (personal vs. commercial)

On average, the cost of an RCA policy for an electric scooter could cost between 100 and 300 lei per year. For personal use, the rate could be around 150 lei/year, and for commercial activities (deliveries, rental), the price could be higher.

The number of accidents, increasing

The government argued the measure by increasing the number of accidents caused by light electric vehicles. In 2025, more than 1,600 incidents were reported, resulting in seven deaths, and between 2021 and 2024, another 24 people died in scooter accidents.

“It is a form of protection for all road users. Compulsory insurance provides a legal basis for compensation in the event of an accident, regardless of whether the vehicle is registered or not“, sent representatives of the Government in the statement of reasons.

The changes proposed by ASF, postponed

In the adopted form, the Chamber of Deputies eliminated all the amendments added by the Senate and kept the version sent by the Executive. The ASF proposals aimed at changing the method of calculating compensations and the choice of repair services, considered “controversial” by several parliamentarians, were also rejected. “These aspects will be analyzed separately, in another bill”, said parliamentary sources.