For example, in California and Texas, operation of pocket bikes and mini-motorcycles is illegal on all public streets, sidewalks, and trails. Stat. This complete go-to guide breaks down electric bicycle regulations by state so you're ready to hit the road with peace of mind. There is no minimum age requirement to ride an electric bike. Helmets are not required for e-bike use, and there is no age minimum to operate an electric bicycle. You are free to operate ebikes on bike lanes throughout the city. . Electric bicycle riders under the age of 16 are not allowed to operate an e-bike, but they are allowed to ride as a passenger. Local governments have the power to impose restrictions on the use of electric bicycles using motor power while on bike paths. No localities are allowed to pass any laws that would prevent these rules from being enforced. The same restrictions on age and motor power apply to mopeds as well. How Long Does An Electric Bike Last (An Expert Weighs In), The Ultimate Electric Bike Weight Guide (31 eBike Examples), Electric Bike vs. Gas Bike (An Expert Weighs Pros and Cons), Best Electric Bike For Uber Eats (Are You Allowed To Use It), How to Check eBike Model Year (9 Different Ways), How to Ship an eBike (Shipping Method, Cost, Restrictions). A helmet is required for younger riders (as is customary for all states). Electric bikes have become a very popular mode of transportation recently, but some people wonder if it is worth it to purchase an electric bike because they dont know how long it will last. 66/80cc BBR Tuning Angle Fire Bicycle Engine Kit - 2 Stroke, BBR Tuning Racing Series Stage 4 66/80cc 2-Stroke Engine Kit, ModWheel 48v 1000w Direct Drive Electric Bike Kit, ModWheel Direct Mid Drive Electric Bike Kit, BBR Tuning Volt Master High Performance Racing CDI (Stage 2), BBR Tuning DELUXE High Performance Expansion Chamber- Chrome, Switz Cruz 26" Men's Beach Cruiser Bike Bicycle, BBR Tuning Vintage LED Bullet Headlight - Black/Copper, BBR Tuning 26 Inch Heavy Duty 10 Spoke STAR Motorized Bike Mag Wheel Set, GigaByke 500W Swift Belt Drive Electric Bike. For more information on Vermonts electric bike laws, click here: Vt. Stat. Since electric bike laws are constantly changing, it can be difficult to keep up with all of the rules, even for expert riders. The state of Ohio defines an e-bike as an electric bicycle. Both electric bicycles and traditional bicycles must adhere to the same rules of the road. In Texas, for instance, an individual operating a pocket bike on a public road may be cited for . This means that in NH people can pedal faster than in other states and you can ride your eBike when walking would be allowed. Are gas powered bikes legal? E-bikes cannot be operated on sidewalks. Have questions or need help? Gen. Nos. The minimum age requirement for this type of license is 14. For more information on North Carolinas electric bike laws, click here: The state of North Dakota defines an e-bike as a motorized bicycle. Electric bicycles must follow the same rules of the road as traditional bicycles. Stat. Its best to check with your town, city, our county for clarification on local electric bicycle rules and regulations. Electric bicycle riders are not required to wear a helmet. Florida electric bike laws state that you need to wear a helmet while riding an electric bicycle on public roadways and walkway areas. Both electric bicycles and traditional bicycles require all riders and passengers under the age of 18 to wear helmets. An easy way to remember the difference is that "moped" is a contraction for "motor+pedal". In Hawaii, an electric bike is defined as a low-speed electric bicycle. The maximum speed on a paved level surface when powered solely by a motor must be less than 20 mph. In Maine, electric bicycles are regulated in the same way as traditional bicycles. EVELO strongly encourages checking with City, County, State and other local agencies for the most recent laws governing the proper, legal use of electric bicycles in your area. You may use them on roadways, bike paths, and bike lanes. Generally speaking, anywhere a bicycle can go, an electric bike can go (with restrictions in some states for Class 3). e-BikesUSA.com is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com. No person under the age of 16 may operate a Class 2 or Class 3 electric bicycle unless it is designed to accommodate passengers. This usually happens in states where e-bikes are classified as motorized bicycles. In the state of Arizona, e-bikes do not meet federal safety standards and cant be sold. New Yorks Department of Motor Vehicles does not recognize e-bikes as vehicles, meaning that they are not subject to registration and licensing. Whether you're an experienced rider or you're new to the hobby, we are here for you. Are Electric Dirt Bikes Street Legal in PA? E-bikes are prohibited from being used on sidewalks, and are only allowed on bike paths when under human power alone. It is essential to look up particular regulations to know what to watch out for when you decide to acquire an electric bike. E-bikes are prohibited from being used on sidewalks and bike paths. As a whole, Electric bikes are street legal in New York State and New York City. Yes, for all intents and purposes they are street legal as long as the rules of roadways apply to them such as following traffic laws like yielding to pedestrians on sidewalks, obeying stop lights etc. Both vehicles must follow the same rules of the road. Code 502.143; 541.201; 541.202; 551.001; 551.106; 551.107; 664.001. Local governments have the power to impose restrictions on the use of e-bikes using motor power while on bike paths. All three classes of e-bikes are allowed on bike paths. However, you should keep in mind that as time goes on, laws and policies regarding electric bicycles change. New Hampshire New Hampshire also has a 16-year-old age limit on the fastest electric bikes and a helmet requirement on everyone less than 18 years of age. State law does not specify whether or not e-bikes are allowed on bike paths. E-bikes are not required to meet the registration, licensing, or insurance requirements that standard motor vehicles are subject to. Both electric bicycles and traditional bicycles must adhere to the same rules of the road. There are also laws against unlicensed riders driving bicycles with an electric motor attached. Helmets must be worn by riders, and there is a 14-year age minimum for electric bicycle use. However, local authorities can restrict the use of e-bikes on bike paths, so its best to consult with your local authority or agency for clarification. electric motor-driven cycle equipped with operable pedals and powered by an electric battery or battery pack powered electric motor with a max design speed of no more than 25 mph. Rhode Island- Rhode Island requires a license for operators of a motorized bicycle, so whether or not you need a license depends on the classification of the specific bike you are riding. Electric bicycle owners must pay a $30 registration fee at any city hall satellite location or the state business registration unit in Honolulu. An electric bike cannot have a power output more than 750 watts in some states, or less than 20 horsepower with two brake-systems (one for each wheel). For more information on Connecticuts electric bike laws, click here: Public Act 18 - 165 (HB 5313, 2018 Session). However, some states require you to have a license to operate them. Razor RSF650 Electric Street Bike Its best for 16-year-olds and above, with a maximum weight of 100Kg . For more information on Nebraskas electric bike laws, click here: The state of Nevada defines an e-bike as an electric bicycle. To be placed in this category, the motor must be under 750w, have a maximum speed of 20 mph, and have pedals that can be operated by human power. An e-bike is a bicycle equipped with an electric motor that assists the rider when they are pedaling. However, there are a few states that have specific laws governing their use, but in general, they are considered street-legal. copyright 2023 EVELO. New Mexico New Mexico requires motorcycle helmets on all riders of e-bikes, and the driver must have a license. Colorado The state of Colorado has no special requirements for e-bikers other than a max speed of 20 miles per hour. Electric bike riders are not required to wear helmets, and there is no minimum age requirement for riders. Electric bike operators are required to carry a license and may be subject to certain registration requirements. So, how long do electric bikes last? Of course not! Though local laws restrict e-bikes in many locations, the following states do not require a drivers license for e-biking: Arizona- There are no licensing, helmet, or age requirements placed on owners of electric bikes in Arizona. Are electric bikes street legal? The state defines three classes of low-speed e-bikes. The motor kicks in when you pedal or use the throttle, and stops assisting you when you reach 20 mph.. Class 3 - Speed pedelec (speed pedal-assist) The law is simple, it essentially legalized class 1 & 2 ebikes. However, they are allowed on bike paths. For more information on Missouri electric bike laws, click here: Mo Rev. Helmets are not required for e-bike use, and there is no minimum age requirement to operate an electric bicycle. There are various rules and laws you will need to follow. The state of Mississippi defines an electric bicycle as a bicycle with motor attached. Both electric bicycles and traditional bicycles must adhere to the same rules of the road. However, local governments have the power to impose restrictions on the use of e-bikes using motor power while on bike paths. In Indiana, electric bicycles are regulated in the same way as traditional bicycles. Unfortunately, an e-bikes model year is sometimes quite hard to find. New York law states that when using your electric bike over any kind of open roadway, both the rider and the bicycle must be equipped with proper lighting equipment including reflectors and lights for traveling during low-light conditions. By law, e-bikes are considered bicycles for vehicle registration purposes. As a general rule, electric bikes are street legal in Pennsylvania if they do not have a throttle. For more information on Maines electric bike laws, click here: Me. Oklahoma Oklahoma requires any form of licensing from riders of electric bicycles. However, local governments have the power to impose restrictions on the use of electric bicycles using motor power while on bike paths. For more information on Washingtons electric bike laws, click here: RCW 2 46.04.169, 46.04.071, 46.20.500, 46.61.710 and 46.37. Class 4 are only allowed on streets with cars, or off-road on private property. Code 39-01-01 (48); 39-06-14.1. Both class 1 and class 2 electric bicycles are regulated the same as traditional bicycles. Generally, an electric bicycle can ride on roadways and anywhere a regular bicycle can ride. E-bikes are not permitted on sidewalks or bike paths. For more information on Arizonas electric bike laws, click here: Ariz. Rev. Iowa Iowa also keeps e-bikers to a maximum speed of 20 miles per hour unless the driver is pedaling themselves. In Utah, electric bicycles are regulated in the same way as traditional bicycles. Kansas Kansas mandates helmets on minors, but it does not require licenses. For more information on Minnesotas electric bike laws, click here: Minn. Stat. For more information on North Dakotas electric bike laws, click here: N.D. The actual weight of the bicycle could vary, Read More The Ultimate Electric Bike Weight Guide (31 eBike Examples)Continue, When I was looking to buy a motorized bike, I was stuck between choosing an electric bike or a gas-powered bike. In total, Both New York State and New York City do not require a license for electric bicycles. Are Electric Bikes Street Legal in Pennsylvania. Class 1 - Pedelec (pedal assist) eBikes that are pedal-assist only, with no throttle, and have a maximum motor-assisted speed of 20 mph (32kph). When in doubt, check for local rules and regulations. All it means is that you've got to know what to do to stay safe on the road and protected under the law. However, since e-bikes are technically vehicles, they are required to follow the same rules as standard vehicles. There is no specific classification for electric bikes under current South Carolina traffic laws. All riders and passengers must wear a helmet. You cant ride your bike against the flow of traffic unless there are signs allowing you to do so. 1, C.D. Wisconsin Wisconsin has several interesting requirements for e-bikers, including the class D license. Operable pedals required. Do not ride your eMTB in areas where the local rules are unclear. Electric bicycles do not have to follow the same rules of the road as traditional bicycles. Va. Code 17A-1-1(c), 17B-1-1, 17C-1-5a, 17C-15-23, 17C-15-44. Both vehicles must follow the same rules of the road. For example, they must be powered by a motor with 750 watts of power or less, and cannot exceed 20 mph. The laws are similar to those across the country, but there are some differences. 23 800(a). South Carolina law states that when using an electric bike over any kind of open roadway, both the rider and the bicycle must be equipped with proper lighting equipment including reflectors and lights for traveling during low-light conditions. They must also travel at less than 20 miles per hour. While enduro dirt bikes are primarily designed for off-road races, they are modifiable for on-road use. E-bikes are not required to meet the registration, licensing, or insurance requirements that standard motor vehicles are subject to. It's legally a bicycle, so you can use it wherever and however you can use a bike - except on bicycle/pedestrian paths that are posted to prohibit "motorized bicycles". South Dakota People under 16 years of age may only ride an e-bike as a passenger. Riders must be at least 15 years old to operate an e-bike. Engine may not exceed 50 cubic centimeters. In Idaho, electric bicycles are regulated in the same way as traditional bicycles. Engine may not exceed 1.5 brake horsepower rating. They require that they be registered and insured, the rider must have a motorcycle license and wear a helmet at all times, and you cannot ride faster than 20 mph on motor-assisted bikes without it being considered moped or scooter riding which requires registration, insurance etc. New Jersey law states that you need to wear a helmet while riding an electric bicycle on public roadways and walkway areas as well as having front and rear lights turned on when using your e-bike during nighttime hours or any other time where poor lighting makes it hard for others to see you. According to the law, ATVs are not allowed on the roads in Pennsylvania. Pennsylvania electric bike laws state that electric bikes are allowed to be used on the road or sidewalk as long as they follow all traffic rules and regulations including having proper safety equipment such as helmets when traveling over public roads while riding an e-bike. Atty. Some dirt bikes could fall under motorcycles, but in order to be street legal, they would need to be insured, inspected, and have a registration plate. Dirt bike laws and requirements vary for every state, so check with your local agencies before you take your dirt bike off road. That is a general overview for electric bike laws in Washington, but its always best to double check with your local governing authority. Most of these states have an entirely separate classification system for electric bicycles rather than grouping them under motorcycles or motorized bicycles. For more information on Utahs electric bike laws, click here: Utah Code 41-6a-102 (7-9, 16); 41-6a-1115.5; 41-6a-1505. Are, electric bike street legal? Local governments have the power to impose restrictions on the use of electric bicycles. Individuals 16 years of age or younger are not allowed to ride a Class 3 e-bike. Do electric bikes need a license in PA? Helmets are not required but the age minimum for ebike use is 16 years. 31-5-109, W.S. Some cities have banned electric bikes as well, but that varies by state and municipality. For more information on West Virginia's electric bike laws, click here: The state of Wisconsin defines an e-bike as a motor bicycle. As long as the motor is under 750w, has a maximum speed of 20 mph, and has operable pedals, the electric bike falls into the bicycle category. Indiana Rather than a licensing requirement, Indiana asks all e-bikers to have an ID card on them while biking. Minnesota The minimum age requirement for riding an electric bicycle in Minnesota is 15 years old. Its best to check with your town, city, our county for clarification on local electric bicycle rules and regulations. Rev. In Arkansas, electric bicycles are regulated in the same way as traditional bicycles. There is no age limit, but adults should not recklessly endanger the lives of children by placing them on an electric bicycle. Helmets are not required to operate an electric bicycle. The first thing you need to do is measure, Read More How to Mount a Bike Rack Without EyeletsContinue, Today, bicycles have become such a popular means of transport that everyone in the world knows them. Class 1 and Class 2 e-bikes can be operated on bike paths. The motor kicks in only when you pedal, and stops assisting you when you reach 28 mph.. Class 4 - Mopeds & high-power off-road ebikes 47 1-134; tit. To drive these faster bikes, you must be at least 16 years old. What kind of scooter does not require a license? NO. The maximum speed for e-bikes is 20 miles per hour as usual. For more information on New Jerseys electric bike laws, click here: N.J. Rev. Class 3 e-bikes are also not allowed on bike paths, though everything else is fair game. The same rules of the road apply to both ebikes and human-powered bicycles. The City Council is introducing legislation Wednesday that will legalize electric scooters and bikes delighting those who support . E-bikes are not required to meet the registration, licensing, or insurance requirements that standard motor vehicles are subject to. These limits restrict their speed and allow only certain types of e-bikes in public areas. Definition - How the e-bike is defined: as a Class of ebike, as a motorized vehicle (like a moped or motorcycle), etc. That is a general rule for all bikes, not just electric ones. Bicycles are not permitted on freeways in Pennsylvania without permission of the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation. Class 3 e-bikes are prohibited from riding on bicycle trails or paths or multi-use trails or paths. For more information on Colorados electric bike laws, click here: Colo. Rev. Class 3 e-bikes are only allowed on the roadway, unless otherwise indicated by the local authority. E-bike riders are required to carry an operators license. Electric bikes themselves might be easy to use, but the laws around their usage, particularly in the United States can be tricky to comprehend. Electric bicycles can go no faster than 20 miles per hour. STREET LEGAL BIKES . New Jersey In addition to requiring a license to ride an electric bicycle, New Jersey requires a motorcycle helmet to be worn when on an e-bike. Mississippi Electric bicycles are not allowed on conventional bike paths, and the biker must be at least 16 years of age. Does that mean your dream of an e-bike is broken? Michigan Michigan keeps electric bikers to 20 miles per hour in all cases on bike paths and trails. Pennsylvania < 750W: 20mph: Yes: 100 . As always, check out local laws before taking off with your brand new electric bicycle! Trans. Anyone under the age of 16 may ride a Class 3 e-bike as a passenger only. 175 0 obj <>/Filter/FlateDecode/ID[<234007E695F6194ABEAFB5736C7FCDA6>]/Index[158 31]/Info 157 0 R/Length 86/Prev 58502/Root 159 0 R/Size 189/Type/XRef/W[1 2 1]>>stream For more information on Indianas electric bike laws, click here: Ind. Bike trails are marked to allow or prohibit electric bikes. From the City to the trail. Ohio electric bike laws state that you need to wear a helmet while riding an electric bicycle on the road or sidewalk. Utah law states that you cant ride an electric bike against the flow of traffic unless there is signage allowing it so always check with your local governing authority before hitting the road! For more information on South Carolinas electric bike laws, click here: The state of South Dakota defines an e-bike as an electric bicycle. Both electric bicycles and traditional bicycles must adhere to the same rules of the road. 300.010(17), 300.347, 301.010(36), 307.180, 307.195. The state of North Carolina defines an e-bike as an electric assisted bicycle. To be placed in this category, the motor must be under 1000w, have a maximum speed of 20 mph, and have pedals that can be operated by human power. Its best to check with your town, city, our county for clarification on local electric bicycle rules and regulations. E-bikes are allowed on both sidewalks and bike paths. Rhode Island defines e-bikes as electric motorized bicycles. These e-bikes have a maximum power output of 1491w, and a top speed of 25 mph with fully operable pedals. In addition there are electric kick scooters, electric mobility scooters, and electric wheelchairs that are generally only allowed on sidewalks are other places where pedestrians walk. E-bikes may be operated on roads, but must avoid sidewalks and bike paths. Which shipping method is cheaper, by, Read More How to Ship an eBike (Shipping Method, Cost, Restrictions)Continue. In Arizona eBikes are classified as bicycles and require no registration or license plate but drivers do need a valid drivers license, must follow traffic laws that pertain to bicycles and cannot ride more than two side by side on the road. Both electric bicycles and traditional bicycles must adhere to the same rules of the road.