Italy: Plate and Insurance Mandatory for Electric Scooters in 2026
Starting on May 16, 2026, riding an electric scooter in Italy without a plate or without insurance carries fines of between €100 and €400 — and in more serious cases, confiscation of the vehicle. The contrassegno can already be requested since March. If you have not done it yet, this post explains exactly what you need to do.
What changes from May 16, 2026
The new Italian regulation introduces two obligations that come into force at the same time:
A laminated sticker with 6 alphanumeric characters, issued by the Motorizzazione Civile. It can be requested online from March 18, 2026.
Coverage for damage caused to third parties. Mandatory for riding on public roads from May 16.
The contrassegno can already be requested. If you have not applied yet, do it this week — the process may take several days.
How to request the contrassegno step by step
The application is made exclusively online through the Portale dell'Automobilista. There is no in-person processing without an appointment.
Go to ilportaledellautomobilista.it. You need SPID or a Carta d'Identità Elettronica (CIE). Without one of these, you cannot continue.
Enter the scooter details. If the owner is a minor aged between 14 and 18, the application must be submitted by the person with parental responsibility.
You can collect it at Motorizzazione Civile offices or through authorized agencies. Check waiting times in your province — some offices have waiting lists.
It goes on the rear mudguard. If the scooter does not have a rear mudguard, it goes on the handlebar. It is a non-removable laminated sticker.
How to install and protect the contrassegno
The contrassegno is a sticker, not a rigid plate. Impacts, falls, and bad weather can damage it. If it becomes illegible, you have to repeat the whole application process. A rigid plate holder protects it and keeps it visible at all times.
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Rear Plate Holder
Mounted on the rear mudguard with screws and double-sided adhesive. The most stable and discreet option.
Compatible with: VMP plate ES · targhino IT · DE insurance sticker
Inner slot: 5.2 × 6.7 cm
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Flexible Side Plate Holder
Side mounting on the rear wheel. For scooters without a mudguard or with insufficient space at the rear.
Compatible with: VMP plate ES · targhino IT · DE insurance sticker
Inner slot: 5.2 × 6.7 cm
- 🛴 You have a flat rear mudguard → rear plate holder
- 🛴 No mudguard or not enough space → side plate holder
Rules that still apply
The plate and insurance are the new requirements from May, but the rest of the regulation is already in force:
- 🪖 Helmet mandatory for all riders
- 🚫 Carrying passengers is prohibited
- 🚶 Riding on sidewalks is prohibited
- ↩️ Riding against traffic is prohibited
- 🔢 Respect the speed limits indicated by municipal signage
Frequently asked questions
From when can the contrassegno be requested?
From March 18, 2026. Sanctions come into force on May 16, 2026. The process may take several days — it is not advisable to wait until the last minute.
What is the penalty for riding without a plate or without insurance?
An administrative fine of between €100 and €400. In the event of repeat offences or repeated non-compliance, confiscation of the vehicle is also provided for.
What happens if I lose the contrassegno or it is stolen?
You have to activate the replacement procedure through the Portale dell'Automobilista. In the event of theft or loss, a police report must be filed within 48 hours.
Is the contrassegno transferred when selling the scooter?
No. In the event of sale, the original owner must cancel the contrassegno. The new owner must request a new one in their own name.
Is Holdtag’s plate holder compatible with the Italian contrassegno?
Yes. The inner cavity measures 5.2 × 6.7 cm, compatible with the format of the Italian contrassegno. Both models include a transparent protector to keep the sticker visible and protected.
May 2026 is the deadline to get compliant in Italy
From May 16, the plate and insurance are mandatory for all electric scooters riding on public roads in Italy. The contrassegno is requested online through the Portale dell'Automobilista using SPID or CIE, and it is placed on the rear mudguard — or on the handlebar if there is no mudguard.
A rigid plate holder protects the sticker from impacts and avoids having to repeat the application process if it deteriorates.
