Young people caught riding private e-scooters illegally could see their future car insurance premiums rise by up to £1,000, experts warn.
A recent study found that nearly 800 under-16s have received endorsements for riding private e-scooters illegally over the past four years, with almost half of these issued in 2024 as their popularity increases.
If caught, riders can receive an IN10 endorsement for using a vehicle without insurance. This carries a £300 fine and six penalty points. While teenagers without a licence may not be concerned about points, the endorsement stays on record for at least four years, significantly increasing the cost of car insurance when they do start driving.
The Financial Impact on Young Drivers
Insurance for young drivers is already expensive, but an IN10 can push costs even higher. Data from MoneySupermarket shows that for 17-to-19-year-olds, the average annual premium for fully comprehensive cover is £1,766. With an IN10, this jumps to £2,767—a £1,000 increase. A similar pattern exists for drivers in their 20s, where an endorsement raises costs from £1,272 to £2,272.
For a 16-year-old who passes their test at 17, an IN10 will affect their premiums until at least the age of 20. Even a 13-year-old caught riding illegally could face higher costs when they eventually get a licence.
The Legal Status of Private E-Scooters
While rental e-scooters in designated trial areas are legal, private e-scooters cannot be used on public roads or spaces in the UK. They are not insurable, meaning anyone caught riding one illegally risks fines, penalty points, and having the e-scooter seized.
IAM RoadSmart, a road safety charity, found a 2,100% increase in children receiving uninsured driving endorsements since 2021. In 2024 alone, 375 children aged 13 to 16 received IN10 endorsements compared to just 17 in 2021.
The Need for Clearer Regulation
Experts are calling for new legislation to regulate private e-scooters. Nicholas Lyes, policy director at IAM RoadSmart, said:
"Although it's illegal to ride a private e-scooter on public roads, they are widely available for sale. It's estimated that more than 750,000 have been purchased. The Government must introduce new laws covering safety standards, speed limits, and rider competency."
What Parents and Young People Need to Know
Kara Gammell of MoneySupermarket warns that both young riders and their parents must be aware of the consequences.
"If you're considering buying an e-scooter for your teen, it's crucial to discuss the legal risks. Riding one illegally can lead to six penalty points, a £300 fine, and significantly higher car insurance costs in the future."
With motor insurance already rising sharply—premiums jumped 25% between 2022 and 2023—young drivers face increasing financial barriers. According to Compare the Market, the average premium for under-25s was £1,577 in December 2024, even after a £425 drop from the previous year.
Ultimately, the decision to ride a private e-scooter on public roads isn’t just a legal risk—it could make getting on the road in the future significantly more expensive.
