A Detailed Guide to U.S. State eBike Laws

If you're wondering about these questions, you're not alone—over the past three years, the number of eBike users in the United States has grown by 240%, but the pace of regulatory updates has left many riders struggling to keep up. In 2024 alone, 12 new federal and state regulations were introduced, covering everything from battery safety certifications to vehicle classification standards. The rapid changes even force seasoned dealers to refresh their knowledge bases daily.

Why Have Regulations Become So Complex?

• In New York, a delivery rider's use of an uncertified battery led to an apartment fire, directly pushing the 2024 Priscilla Act, which mandates city-wide eBike registration.
• In California, a Chinese manufacturer faced lawsuits for selling models that could be "hacked to reach 35 mph," leading to the SB 1271 Act, which clearly defines what qualifies as a legitimate eBike.
• At the federal level, UL safety standards shifted from "recommended" to "mandatory," driven by a 187% surge in battery fires across the U.S. over two years.

One Guide to Serve Two Purposes

1.Know What to Follow

In 2024, the federal government and 38 states updated their eBike-related laws, yet 16 states still follow outdated 2018 standards. This guide will mark which regulations are "about to expire" and which policies are "in the pipeline." For example, Texas is planning to lower the Class 3 speed limit from 28 mph to 25 mph in 2025.

2.Stay informed

This page will take you deep into the eBike regulations and riding details, helping you avoid legal pitfalls and enjoy safe travel. Want to know more? Keep reading!

Which Class Does My Bike Belong To?

• In Colorado, Class 3 vehicles are allowed on bike lanes.
• In New York City, the same model may be restricted to motor vehicle lanes.
• If you remove the throttle controller from a Class 2 bike in Georgia, it may be instantly deemed an illegal modification.

The general rule of thumb is:

Electric bikes in the U.S. are categorized based on their top speed and how the motor is activated. Here's a quick breakdown:

• Class 1: Pedal-assist only, with no throttle, and a maximum assisted speed of 20 mph. These are generally allowed on bike paths and multi-use trails in most states.
• Class 2: Equipped with a throttle and a maximum speed of 20 mph, whether or not you're pedaling. These may be restricted in some cities or trails due to motor-only operation.
• Class 3: Pedal-assist only (no throttle), with a higher maximum assisted speed of 28 mph. Helmets are often required, and riders must usually be over 16. Access may be limited to roadways and designated bike lanes.

How Are eBikes Legally Defined?

• Pedals fully operable for human propulsion,
• An electric motor of ≤750W,
• A maximum speed of 20 mph under motor power alone.

What Classification Systems Do States Use?

• Three-Tiered System (Class 1/2/3): Adopted by 26 states, including California and New York.
• Two-Tiered System (Low-Speed/High-Speed): Used by states like New Jersey and West Virginia.
• No Clear Classification: States like Missouri and Kansas manage eBikes under broader bicycle or motor vehicle laws.

What are the Requirements for Riding an eBike?

1. Age Restrictions:

Age restrictions for riding an eBike vary by state and by eBike classification. In California, the minimum age for Class 3 eBikes is 16 years old, while there is no age restriction for Class 1 and Class 2. In New York, riders must be 16 or older for all classes of eBikes. Florida allows riders as young as 15 to operate an eBike without any specific class limitations.

2. License Requirements:

License requirements are only enforced in specific states where eBikes are classified similarly to mopeds. States that currently require a license for eBike operation include Alabama, Alaska, Hawaii, Louisiana, Massachusetts, New Mexico, North Dakota, Wisconsin, and West Virginia.

3. Insurance Regulations:

Most states do not require insurance for eBikes, particularly for Class 1 and Class 2 models. However, in states like Hawaii and Michigan, riders of high-power eBikes may need insurance if the bike exceeds certain power limits.

4. Helmet Laws:

Helmet laws also vary depending on the state and the type of eBike. Many states require helmets for riders under 18 years old. For Class 3 eBikes, helmet use is often mandatory for all riders, regardless of age, in states like New York and California.

5. Guardian Requirements for Minors:

Where Can You Ride an eBike?

1. City Roads:

In most states, eBikes are permitted on city roads as long as they follow local traffic regulations. Some cities may impose restrictions for Class 3 eBikes, especially in congested urban areas.

2. Bike Lanes:

Class 1 and Class 2 eBikes are generally allowed in bike lanes. Class 3 eBikes may be restricted from standard bike lanes and required to use roadways or separate bike paths instead, as seen in states like New York and Colorado.

3. National Parks:

Access to national parks with eBikes is governed by federal regulations. Many parks allow Class 1 eBikes on bicycle-approved paths, while Class 2 and Class 3 may face restrictions. For example, in Yellowstone National Park, only Class 1 is allowed on bike trails.

4. Off-Road Areas:

What are the Consequences of Violating eBike Regulations?

1. Speeding Fines:

2. Riding Under the Influence (DUI):

3. Equipment Non-Compliance Penalties:

What are the Requirements for Commercial Use of eBikes?

1. Delivery and Rental Requirements:

2. Battery Safety Standards:

State-by-State Guide to eBike Classifications and Regulations

Below is a quick reference of eBike classifications by state. Additional insights on legal requirements and safety guidelines are available throughout the article.

Alaska:

Alaska considers electric bicycles as “motor-driven cycles.” Riders are required to have a license and register their eBike, as it is regulated more like a motor vehicle than a traditional bicycle.

Alabama:

Alabama uses the three-tiered classification of eBikes (Class 1, Class 2, and Class 3). Electric bicycles are regulated in the same manner as traditional bicycles, with no special licensing or registration required. Starting in 2022, manufacturers will be required to attach permanent labels to eBikes indicating classification, maximum auxiliary speed, and motor power; updated labels will be required after modifications.

Arkansas:

Arkansas also follows the three-tiered classification system for eBikes. They are treated like traditional bicycles in terms of regulations, allowing similar access and rules for riders.

Arizona:

Arizona adheres to the three-tiered classification of electric bicycles. eBikes are regulated like traditional bicycles, meaning no special licenses or registrations are needed.

California:

California implements the three-tiered classification of eBikes. They are regulated in the same way as traditional bicycles, although Class 3 eBikes (up to 28 mph) may face certain restrictions like helmet requirements or age limits. Under SB 1271, beginning in 2025, all eBike batteries sold in California must be UL certified by January 1, 2026; prohibits the sale or use of retrofit devices capable of bypassing speed limits or auxiliary modes.

Colorado:

Colorado follows the three-tiered classification system. Electric bicycles are regulated like traditional bicycles, and generally enjoy the same rights and access on public roads and paths. Bill HB25-1197 requires eBike manufacturers to affix labels indicating the highest operable category beginning in 2027; prohibits false labeling of non-eBike products.

Connecticut:

Connecticut uses the three-class eBike system. Electric bicycles are regulated similarly to traditional bikes, with riders subject to standard bicycle laws. Second round of eBike incentive program introduces lottery system, prioritizing low-income applicants and residents of environmental justice communities.

Delaware:

Delaware employs the three-tiered classification for electric bikes. eBikes are treated like traditional bicycles in terms of usage and access.

Florida:

Florida uses the three-tiered classification model for eBikes. Electric bicycles are regulated just like traditional bikes, with no licensing or registration required. Starting in 2021, manufacturers will be required to attach permanent labels to eBikes indicating classification, maximum auxiliary speed, and motor power; prohibits modifications without updated labels.

Georgia:

Georgia implements the three-tiered eBike classification. eBikes are subject to the same rules as traditional bicycles and are not considered motor vehicles.

Hawaii:

Hawaii does not use the three-tiered system. Instead, it classifies electric bicycles with a top speed of 20 mph as “low-speed electric bicycles.” This classification subjects them to some regulations distinct from standard bikes, but no license is typically required. HB958 bans eBike stunts on public roads, requires minors to wear helmets, and prohibits high-powered eBikes on public roads.

Iowa:

Iowa follows the three-tiered classification of eBikes. Electric bicycles are regulated in the same way as traditional bicycles, with no special licensing or registration mandates.

Idaho:

Idaho uses the three-tiered classification of eBikes. Electric bicycles are regulated similarly to traditional bicycles and are allowed on bike paths and trails unless otherwise restricted.

Illinois:

Illinois follows the three-tiered classification system. eBikes are treated like traditional bicycles, but riders of Class 3 eBikes must be at least 16 years old. No license, registration, or insurance is required. SB1521 implements a rebate program for eBike purchases beginning in 2026, requiring applicants to have owned an eBike for at least 12 months, and limited to one application per person per 10 years.

Indiana:

Indiana uses the three-tiered classification of electric bikes. eBikes are regulated the same as traditional bicycles, though Class 3 eBikes are restricted to riders 15 and older and require helmets for those under 18.

Kansas:

Kentucky:

Kentucky does not currently use the three-tiered classification. Electric bicycles are treated as traditional bicycles as long as they have operable pedals and a motor under 750 watts. No license or registration is needed.

Louisiana:

Louisiana uses the three-class eBike system. eBikes are generally treated like traditional bicycles, but Class 3 eBike riders must be at least 12 years old and wear a helmet.

Maine:

Maine follows the three-tiered classification of eBikes. They are regulated like traditional bicycles, but Class 3 eBikes require the rider to be at least 16 years old and wear a helmet.

Maryland:

Maryland does not fully implement the three-tiered classification. Instead, electric bicycles are categorized as “motorized bicycles.” eBikes must have a motor under 500 watts and a top speed of 20 mph. Riders under 16 must wear helmets.

Massachusetts:

Massachusetts does not officially adopt the three-class system. Electric bikes are considered “motorized bicycles” and require riders to have a driver’s license and register the eBike.

Michigan:

Michigan uses the three-tiered classification system. eBikes are treated like traditional bicycles, but Class 3 eBikes are restricted to riders aged 14 or older, and helmets are required for riders under 18.

Minnesota:

Minnesota follows the three-tiered classification. Electric bicycles are regulated like traditional bikes. No license, registration, or insurance is needed, and most eBikes are allowed on bike trails.

Mississippi:

Mississippi does not currently have specific statewide regulations for eBikes and does not use the three-tiered classification. In general, eBikes are treated similarly to traditional bicycles, but local rules may vary.

Missouri:

Missouri does not officially follow the three-tiered classification. eBikes are generally treated as bicycles if their motor is under 750 watts and the speed is under 30 mph. No license or registration is required.

Montana:

Montana does not officially use the three-tiered eBike classification. However, electric bicycles are generally treated like traditional bicycles as long as their motor is under 750 watts and maximum speed is 20 mph. No license, registration, or insurance is required.

Nebraska:

Nevada:

Nevada uses the three-tiered classification for electric bicycles. eBikes are treated like traditional bicycles, with the same rights and responsibilities. Helmets are required for Class 3 riders under age 18.

New Hampshire:

New Hampshire uses the three-class system. Electric bicycles are regulated like traditional bicycles, but Class 3 eBike riders must be at least 16 years old, and helmets are required for those under 18.

New Jersey:

New Jersey classifies eBikes into two types: “low-speed electric bicycles” (pedal assist) and “motorized bicycles” (throttle-based). Low-speed electric bicycles are regulated like traditional bikes, while motorized bicycles require registration and licensing.

New Mexico:

New Mexico does not officially adopt the three-tiered system. Electric bicycles are generally treated as mopeds, meaning they may require a driver’s license and registration, depending on their speed and power output.

New York:

New York recognizes a three-class structure for eBikes. Class 1 and 2 eBikes are permitted wherever traditional bicycles are allowed, but Class 3 eBikes are restricted to certain areas and are only allowed in New York City. Helmets are required for Class 3 riders.

North Carolina:

North Carolina uses the three-class classification. Electric bicycles are regulated like traditional bikes, but Class 3 riders must be at least 16 years old and wear a helmet. No license or registration is required.

North Dakota:

North Dakota does not currently follow the three-tiered system. eBikes are generally treated as mopeds or motorized bicycles and may require a license and registration depending on power and speed.

Ohio:

Ohio adopts the three-class eBike classification. Electric bicycles are regulated like traditional bikes, with helmet requirements for Class 3 riders under age 16. No license or registration is needed.

Oklahoma:

Oklahoma uses the three-class eBike system. Electric bicycles are regulated in the same manner as traditional bicycles. Class 3 riders must be 16 or older and wear a helmet.

Oregon:

Oregon does not use the standard three-tiered classification. It defines eBikes as bicycles if their motor is under 1000 watts and max speed is 20 mph. Riders must be at least 16 years old. No license or registration is needed.

Pennsylvania:

Pennsylvania does not fully adopt the three-class system. Electric bicycles are classified separately and must have a max speed of 20 mph, weigh less than 100 pounds, and have operable pedals. No license or registration is required under these conditions.

Rhode Island:

Rhode Island has limited legislation regarding eBikes. Generally, they are treated like traditional bicycles, but local municipalities may apply their own rules. No statewide classification system is currently in place.

South Carolina:

South Carolina does not have a formal classification system for eBikes. Electric bicycles are generally treated like traditional bicycles and do not require a license or registration.

South Dakota:

South Dakota does not use the three-class eBike system. eBikes may be considered mopeds depending on speed and motor power, in which case a license and registration could be required.

Tennessee:

Tennessee uses the three-tiered classification of electric bicycles. eBikes are treated like traditional bicycles. Class 3 eBike riders must be at least 14 years old, and helmets are required for riders under 16.

Texas:

Texas follows the three-class eBike system. Electric bicycles are regulated in the same way as traditional bicycles, with no licensing or registration required.

Utah:

Utah uses the three-tiered classification of eBikes. They are regulated like traditional bicycles. Riders of Class 3 eBikes must be at least 16 years old, though 14-15-year-olds may ride with supervision.

Vermont:

Vermont does not currently use the three-tiered classification system. eBikes are treated like traditional bicycles if their top speed is under 20 mph and the motor is under 750 watts. No license or registration is required.

Virginia:

Virginia uses the three-tiered classification of eBikes. Electric bicycles are regulated like traditional bicycles. Class 3 riders under 15 must wear a helmet.

Washington:

Washington adopts the three-class eBike system. Electric bicycles are regulated similarly to traditional bikes. Riders of Class 3 eBikes must be at least 16 years old and wear helmets.

West Virginia:

West Virginia uses the three-tiered classification. Electric bicycles are treated like traditional bicycles. Class 3 eBikes require helmet use and are restricted to riders 16 and older.

Wisconsin:

Wisconsin follows the three-class system. Electric bicycles are regulated like traditional bicycles. No license, registration, or insurance is required.

Wyoming:

Wyoming does not currently use the three-tiered classification. eBikes are generally treated like traditional bicycles, with no license or registration needed, though some local rules may vary.

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