QR codes for electric scooters and similar transport: a modern approach to one-person information sharing
Owners of electric scooters and mopeds are being asked to use QR codes rather than license plates. The goal is to enable quick access to rider information in the event of an incident. This concept emerged in discussions with NEWS.ru, where Alexander Tolmachev, a member of the State Duma Committee on Transport and Development of Transport Infrastructure, spoke about the idea.
Tolmachev suggested that waiting in line to obtain a license plate for a scooter feels foolish and outdated. He proposed a streamlined registration through the Gosuslugi portal. The idea is simple: selfies, photographs of the vehicle, and the rider’s details would generate a QR code that can be printed and affixed to a visible part of the scooter. Such a code would be scannable by authorities or first responders to retrieve essential information quickly, potentially speeding up incident handling and safety checks.
He also noted that stickers featuring QR codes could be obtained at multifunctional centers, making the system accessible even for riders without a printer at home. This approach aims to reduce administrative friction while enhancing the ability to verify ownership, rider identity, and vehicle details on the spot.
In July, there was recognition that the Ministry of Industry and Trade is examining the possibility of mandating certification for electric scooters and other self-mobility devices. This potential policy step would align safety standards with new identification methods, ensuring that devices on the road meet minimum requirements and can be reliably tracked when needed.
Valery Vasiliev, a former Deputy Chairman of the Economic Policy Committee of the Federation Council, highlighted potential penalties associated with dual-use of electric scooters and other self-mobility devices. He indicated that riding such devices with another SIM could lead to a fine of 1,000 rubles, underscoring the seriousness with which authorities view compliance and safety in this growing mobility segment.
These developments reflect a broader trend toward digitized identification for micro-mobility. QR codes offer a practical solution to quickly verify ownership, rider identity, regulatory compliance, and vehicle status. Proponents argue that QR codes can be printed on stickers for easy placement, scanned by law enforcement or emergency responders, and integrated with national or regional registries to support incident response, theft prevention, and data sharing in care scenarios. Critics, meanwhile, emphasize privacy concerns and the need for robust data protection to prevent misuse of personal information. The debate continues as policymakers weigh the benefits of rapid information access against the imperative to safeguard rider privacy and data security.
As the conversation evolves, the practical questions center on implementation details: how to securely link QR codes to accurate, up-to-date rider data; how to ensure codes remain legible in various weather and lighting conditions; and how to harmonize standards across different jurisdictions and platforms. Stakeholders advocate for clear guidelines on data access, retention, and opt-out options, along with education campaigns to help riders understand how the system works and why it matters. The end goal remains straightforward: faster, safer responses in emergencies and better accountability for riders and manufacturers alike, without creating unnecessary burdens for everyday mobility.