Scooter, compulsory number plates go into effect today: how much does it cost and what are the penalties?
For the insurance obligation, however, there are still two months to go: it will start on 16 July
The first obligation for those travelling on an electric scooter is ready to start, namely that of the number plate. As of 16 May, in fact, it is necessary to have an identification sticker, as required by the Ministry of Infrastructure decree published in the Official Gazette last March. The second measure, i.e. the insurance obligation, will instead start on 16 July due to the criticalities that emerged during the implementation phase.
Plate details
All electric scooters will have to be fitted with a plastic-coated, non-removable identification sticker produced by the Istituto Poligrafico e Zecca dello Stato. The sticker will be compulsory in order to circulate and must be associated with valid insurance cover. The measure is designed to combat theft, improper use and irregular circulation by introducing a unique identification system for each vehicle.
The decree establishes a national telematics platform, managed by the Data Processing Centre of the Motor Vehicle Authority, which will be the sole channel for all operations relating to electric scooters, including: application and issue of the sticker, renewal and cancellation, reporting of theft or loss, association between owner and vehicle. Access will be via second-level Spid or Electronic Identity Card. Businesses and automotive consultancies will also be able to operate through dedicated systems. The entire process will be digitised: the user will have to enter his or her data, choose the collection point, make the payment via PagoPA, and collect the sticker at the selected office. For minors from 14 years of age, the request must be submitted by the person exercising parental responsibility.
Costs and penalties
The cost of the sticker is set at EUR 8.66, including production, VAT and the road safety fee, plus stamp duty and motoring fees, totalling approximately EUR 33.00. Anyone driving without a sticker risks an administrative fine of 100 to 400 euros, which can be reduced if payment is made within five days.
Delivery delays
On the implementation front, however, there have been long delays in the delivery of the stickers, with the offices of the Motor Vehicle Licensing Authority in a state of distress due to the large number of requests. Delays that risk penalising the citizens involved: it would be necessary to exempt from penalties those who have already applied, but will receive the 'targhino' after 16 May.
