From 25 August 2026, Kazakhstan has banned the use of electric scooters on pavements and pedestrian walkways. The new requirements came into force amid a rise in the number of road traffic accidents (RTAs) involving personal mobility devices.
WHY THE RULES WERE CHANGED
According to the Prosecutor General's Office, since the start of 2026, 390 RTAs caused by moped drivers have been recorded, in which 33 people were killed and 461 sustained injuries.
Cyclists were responsible for 169 accidents, drivers of small electric vehicles for 97, and electric scooter riders for 47. In all of these incidents, 329 minors were affected, and 10 children lost their lives.
Users of such vehicles are themselves also becoming involved in RTAs. A total of 145 collisions into electric scooter riders were recorded, 82 into moped riders, and 52 into drivers of small electric vehicles. In these incidents, 4 people were killed, and nearly 300 more sustained injuries.
WHERE YOU ARE NOW ALLOWED TO RIDE
Where a cycle lane or cycle track is available, electric scooter users must use it. If no such infrastructure exists, riding is permitted along the right-hand edge of the carriageway or along the hard shoulder, in accordance with the Rules of the Road.
Only persons aged 18 or over who hold a driving licence of the relevant category and wear a protective helmet are permitted to ride on the carriageway.
WHAT REQUIREMENTS APPLY TO USERS
Moped drivers are obliged to ride exclusively on the carriageway. When crossing the road at a pedestrian crossing, scooter, bicycle and moped riders must dismount and walk their vehicle alongside them.
It is also prohibited to carry passengers, to use a phone without holding the handlebars, and to ride at night without reflective elements.
WHY THE NEW RULES AFFECT ALL ROAD USERS
The Prosecutor General's Office notes that safety depends on the discipline of all road users. Particular attention is required in areas with high pedestrian footfall, as well as at junctions, residential courtyards and pedestrian crossings.
The department also highlights RTAs involving minors. Parents are advised to teach their children the Rules of the Road and to supervise their use of scooters and bicycles in cases where the law restricts the use of such vehicles.
