E-scooter Helmets in France: Mandatory or Not? What the Law Says in 2026
You have just bought an electric scooter — or you have been using one for a while — and the question always comes back: is it mandatory to wear a helmet? The answer is not a simple yes or no. It depends on where you are riding.
This is what the law in France says in 2026, without interpretations.
In town: recommended, but not mandatory (for now)
In built-up areas (urban zones), wearing a helmet is not mandatory for adults at a national level in 2026. This is one of the least known — and most surprising — rules of French e-scooter regulation.
However, this does not mean it is useless. French Road Safety (Sécurité Routière) strongly recommends wearing one at all times in town, where the majority of accidents occur. But legally, you do not risk a fine in urban areas if you choose not to wear one.
Some municipalities have adopted local ordinances that make helmets mandatory for everyone within their territory. This is the case in Nice, Vence, and Bourg-lès-Valence. Check with the local town hall before riding.
Outside built-up areas: mandatory for everyone
As soon as you leave the urban zone, the rules change. Outside built-up areas, on roads authorised for motorized personal travel devices (EDPM), helmets are mandatory for all riders, without exception, at any time of the day or night.
This is established by Article R412-43-1 of the French Highway Code (Code de la Route). Failure to comply with this rule can result in a fine.
Article R412-43-1: the use of a helmet and a reflective garment or equipment is mandatory outside built-up areas on roads authorised for EDPM, at any time.
What could change in 2026
The debate regarding mandatory helmets in town has accelerated in France. On September 16, 2025, a bill was presented to the National Assembly to make helmets mandatory for all e-scooter and EDPM riders, including within urban zones.
This proposal could be examined in the spring of 2026. If passed, riding without a helmet could be punished with a €135 fine (4th-class contravention).
The law has not changed yet. But the trend is clear: mandatory helmets in the city for all e-scooter users could become a reality in late 2026 or 2027.
Summary: Helmet mandatory or not?
| Situation | Mandatory Helmet? |
|---|---|
| In town — Adult | No (highly recommended) |
| In town — Minor | Yes |
| Outside built-up areas | Yes — Article R412-43-1 |
| Cities with local bylaws (Nice, Vence…) | Yes — for everyone |
| If the new bill is passed | Yes — for everyone, everywhere |
Which helmet to choose for an electric scooter
Not all helmets are created equal. For an e-scooter, check the following before buying:
The helmet must bear the CE mark and preferably the EN 1078 certification (cycle and EDPM) or NTA 8776 for higher protection. Without homologation, it offers no real guarantee in case of impact.
Lightweight urban helmets are suitable for daily city use. Full-face helmets offer maximum protection but are bulkier. For a scooter, a certified urban helmet is the right balance.
A poorly fitted helmet does not protect. Measure your head circumference and ensure the helmet does not move once the straps are fastened.
Certified E-Scooter Helmet
CE-approved urban helmet, lightweight and comfortable for daily use. Compatible with all electric scooters. Ideal for riding in and out of town in full legality.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I be fined for not wearing a helmet in town in France?
At a national level, no — unless your specific municipality has adopted a local ordinance making it mandatory. Check with your local council for specific city rules.
Is a helmet mandatory for children?
Yes. Helmets are mandatory for minors, both in and out of town. The minimum age to ride an e-scooter on public roads in France is 14 since September 2023.
What type of helmet is approved for scooters?
A helmet with EN 1078 certification is suitable for e-scooters and bicycles. Always check the CE marking and certification inside the helmet.
Is the law going to change in 2026?
A bill presented in September 2025 aims to make helmets mandatory for everyone in town. It could be examined in the spring of 2026. For now, the national law remains unchanged.
Is a bicycle helmet sufficient for a scooter?
Yes, provided it is CE homologated with EN 1078 certification. Regulations do not distinguish between bicycle and scooter helmets — the homologation is what matters.
Always wear a helmet, mandatory or not.
The law says a helmet is not mandatory in town for adults in France — for now. But scooter accidents do not consult the Highway Code before they happen.
Outside built-up areas, it is mandatory. In certain municipalities, it is mandatory. And the legislative trend is clearly pointing towards generalisation. It is worth getting into the habit now.
