Hoverboard: You need this approval

You see them more and more often in city centers: hoverboards. Do you actually need an approval? And is insurance necessary for the modern mini-Segways? In this practical tip, we explain everything you need to know about hoverboard.

The hoverboard - more than a toy

At first glance, the futuristic-looking vehicle looks rather unusual: no pedals, no handlebars, no saddle. As if by magic, you glide through the area.

• Similar to a Segway, you control the hoverboard by shifting your weight.
• With various sensors and techniques for balance, drive, steering and deceleration, you can control the board with forward and backward movements.
• But while the so-called mobility aid regulation applies to Segways, the situation is somewhat different for the boards.

Here you can ride the hoverboard and you have to pay attention to that

As soon as a motorized vehicle can drive more than 6 km / h, the provisions of the Road Traffic and Registration Regulations and the Vehicle Registration Regulations apply. This means, ...

• ... without seat, steering, brakes, lights, mirrors, etc., the hoverboards may only be used in limited non-public traffic. It is therefore prohibited to drive the boards in traffic or in the immediate vicinity. Otherwise you have to expect a fine and a point in Flensburg.
• ... insurance would be necessary for road traffic, but this is not offered anywhere. According to § 6 of the compulsory insurance law you make yourself punishable in traffic.
• ... they would need a driver's license to be on the road with the hoverboard. Nor do these exist as punishable under Section 21 of the Road Traffic Act: driving without a license.
• In summary, this means that hoverboards are not permitted in and around the road, and there is no approval. You can only drive on private premises or in non-public traffic.

In the next practical tip, we will show you how to correctly calibrate your hoverboard.