Starting August 25, 2026, new rules for electric scooter users come into effect in Kazakhstan. They are banned from riding on sidewalks, and a driver's license will be required to ride on the roadway. Kursiv LifeStyle explains what has changed... reports the website infohub.kz.
In response to a request from the editorial board, the scooter-sharing service JET reported how the rules have changed and what users need to know.
From August 25, electric scooters will not be allowed to travel on sidewalks. Sharing service users will be able to ride only on bike paths, bike lanes, and the shoulder of the road.
"It is important to distinguish between a bike path and a bike lane. A bike lane is part of the roadway and is separated from cars by markings or physical barriers. A bike path is located separately from the roadway — along sidewalks, in parks, or on embankments," the company clarified.
For example, in Almaty, there is a bike lane on Shevchenko Street, and a bike path on Abai Avenue. To ride on the right side of the roadway, a driver's license of any category is required.
Shared electric scooters can only be used by people aged 18 and older. If a minor is found on a rented scooter, their parents or guardians will be held responsible.
When riding on the roadway, including bike lanes, a fastened helmet is required. In the dark, clothing with reflective elements — such as a vest or a bib — is also required.
The maximum speed of shared electric scooters in Kazakhstan is 25 km/h. At this speed, you can ride on bike paths, bike lanes, and the right edge of the roadway. However, in Almaty, a special speed limit of no more than 15 km/h has been in effect since July 6.
Before a pedestrian crossing, you must dismount and walk across, leading the scooter beside you. Riding an electric scooter across a pedestrian crossing is not allowed.
"Sharing service users are prohibited from carrying one or more passengers. An electric scooter is designed for only one person," JET reminded.
Since July 1, 2026, all shared electric scooters in Kazakhstan have received six-digit registration numbers. The first letter indicates the operating company, and the digits are the scooter's serial number. They will also be used to find violators.
Sharing operators must also obtain users' IIN (Individual Identification Number). This will allow automatic verification of driver's licenses, but only for citizens of Kazakhstan. Foreigners living in Kazakhstan have problems renting, even with an IIN, not to mention tourists.
Since July 1, electric scooter riders are officially considered road users and bear administrative responsibility. For example, for failing to give way to a pedestrian, a fine of 2 MCI (monthly calculation index) may be issued.
Earlier, Kursiv LifeStyle wrote about what users of the services think about the new rules. Petitions have also appeared on government portals calling the restrictions absurd.