This visual summarizes the status of state e-bike laws … Code. Colorado, Indiana, Michigan, New Hampshire, South Dakota and Utah require helmets for those under age 18 operating or riding on a class three e-bike. 23 § 1136; tit. E-bikes are not permitted on sidewalks. §§ 32:1(41), 32:401(19), 32:198, 32:190, 32:203; 47:501, For more information on Maine’s electric bike laws, click here: Me. Class 3 electric bicycle riders are required to wear helmets. For more information on Illinois’ electric bike laws, click here: Illinois Code § 625 ILCS 5/1-140.10; 625 ILCS 5/11-208; 625 ILCS 5/11-1517. However, there is a minimum age requirement of 16 for e-bike riders. In order to submit a comment to this post, please write this code along with your comment: 98bb030e0ea1b90d8448298198b65ec9. E-bike riders should consult with their local government to determine if e-bikes are permitted on bike paths. Some states, including Alabama and Alaska, that define e-bikes in some manner still nonetheless require an operator’s license to ride an e-bike. The state of Delaware defines an electric bicycle as a “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. For more information on New Hampshire’s electric bike laws, click here: N.H. Rev. Helmets are required for all Class 3 electric bicycle riders under the age of 21. E-bikes are not required to meet the registration, licensing, or insurance requirements that standard motor vehicles are subject to. Electric bicycles are not required to meet the registration, licensing, or insurance requirements that standard motor vehicles are subject to. Tel: 202-624-5400 | Fax: 202-737-1069, Research, Editorial, Legal and Committee Staff, E-Learning | Staff Professional Development, Communications, Financial Services and Interstate Commerce, State Electric Bicycle Laws | A Legislative Primer, In Mississippi, there is no clear designation for an electric bicycle, but an, Copyright 2020 by National Conference of State Legislatures. The state of Massachusetts defines an electric bicycle as a “motorized bicycle” as long as it reaches a maximum speed of 30 mph. However, a person under the age of 15 may ride a Class 3 e-bike as a passenger. ), whose maximum speed on a paved level surface, when powered solely by such a motor while ridden by an operator who weighs 170 pounds, is less than 20 mph.” The federal law permits e-bikes to be powered by the motor alone (a “throttle-assist” e-bike), or by a combination of motor and human power (a “pedal-assist” e-bike). Helmets are not required to operate an electric bicycle, and there is no minimum age requirement for e-bike riders. Class 3 electric bicycles cannot be operated on trails, bicycle paths, or multipurpose path unless it is within or located adjacent to a highway or roadway, or they are specifically allowed by the local authority or state agency with jurisdiction. 2007-00602, 2011-00095; Miss. New York’s Department of Motor Vehicles does not recognize e-bikes as vehicles, meaning that they are not subject to registration and licensing. For more information on Wisconsin’s electric bike laws, click here: The state of Wyoming defines an e-bike as an “electric bicycle.” Both electric bicycles and traditional bicycles must adhere to the same rules of the road. While the Asian and European e-bike markets are more robust, industry advocates hope to continue to expand U.S. e-bike sales.. It’s best to check with your town, city, our county for clarification on local electric bicycle rules and regulations. In Mississippi, there is no clear designation for an electric bicycle, but an attorney general opinion indicates that an electric bicycle would be considered a bicycle. § 312.5; § 21200 – 21212; § 21207.5; § 24016, For more information on Colorado’s electric bike laws, click here: Colo. Rev. According to U.S. Department of Transportation survey data, half of all trips in the U.S. are three miles or less in length, a distance widely regarded as bikeable for most adults and even more feasible for electric bicycle riders. NO. E-bikes are most frequently “pedal-assist” or “muscle-assist,” meaning the rider must be pedaling for the electric motor to engage. Rev. 47 § 12- 701. However, local authorities can restrict the use of e-bikes on bike paths, so it’s best to consult with your local authority or agency for clarification. In Illinois, an electric bicycle is defined as a “low-speed electric bicycle.” Both vehicles must follow the same rules of the road. 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. For more information on Hawaii’s electric bike laws, click here: State of Hawaii, Thirtieth Legislature, 2019: H.B. Stat. As motorized bicycles, e-bikes must follow specific vehicle laws, including licensing, registration, and insurance requirements. The laws for riding a motorized bicycle in California made simple. Here are state by state guides and resources to understand your state’s electric bicycle law for the road and trails, and more resources on advocating for better access in your area. § 28.90.990, For more information on Arizona’s electric bike laws, click here: Ariz. Rev. 31-1-101, W.S. What is an e-bike? There are no registration requirements for electric bicycle use. Persons 15 years or older are allowed to operate Class 3 e-bikes. State law does not specify whether or not e-bikes are allowed on bike paths. E-bikes are allowed on sidewalks, but only if bicycles are allowed. For more information on Texas’ electric bike laws, click here: Tex. 90-1B through 90-1D. E-bikes are prohibited from being operated on sidewalks and bike paths. Local governments have the power to impose restrictions on the use of e-bikes using motor power while on bike paths. 31-5-203, W.S. Both vehicles must follow the same rules of the road. Keep in mind that local governments have the power to impose restrictions on the use of e-bikes using motor power while on bike paths. Stat. In other words, the manufacturing and first sale of an e-bike is regulated by the federal government, but its operation on streets and bikeways lies within a state’s control. Since e-bikes are categorized as mopeds, they are subject to meeting the same licensing and insurance requirements that apply to motor vehicles. Under the law, all bicycles, including e-bikes, are defined as vehicles subject to regulation for both equipment and operation. The Nevada Bicycle and Pedestrian Advisory Board was created by the State Legislature to provide State agencies and other public entities input regarding bicycle and pedestrian policies, programs, and facilities.The Board, consisting of 14 pre-defined, gubernatorial appointees, meets every other month. Riders must be at least 16 years old to operate a Class 3 electric bicycle, unless the e-bike is designed to accommodate passengers. Most major U.S. bicycle brands sell e-bikes, and bicycle manufacturers have moved or are positioning themselves to move to the U.S. to capitalize on the growing market. Both vehicles must follow the same rules of the road. For more information on Pennsylvania’s electric bike laws, click here: Senate Bill 997; 75 Pa. Cons. Class 1 e-bikes can be operated on bike paths and linear trails. With the aid of private funds, Utah has unveiled a small electric bike-share system at their State Capitol complex. E-bikes do not have to follow the same rules of the road as traditional bicycles. Both electric bicycles and traditional bicycles require all riders and passengers under the age of 18 to wear helmets. The bicycle’s low-speed electric motor provides a boost of power to climb hills, extend the range of trips where a bicycle can be used, allow current bicycle users to bike more often and farther, provide a new recreation option for people who want to bike and in general, extend the range of any ride. Utah and Vermont are examples of states that have recently eliminated e-bike licensure and registration requirements. Class 2: Bicycle equipped with a throttle-actuated motor, that ceases to provide assistance when the e-bike reaches 20 mph. 31-5-102, W.S. Electric bicycle (e-bike) laws are subject to who owns the land you plan to ride on. Helmets are not required for e-bike use, and there is no minimum age requirement to operate an electric bicycle. Class 3 e-bikes are not allowed on a bicycle or multi-use path unless located adjacent to a highway or roadway, or approved by the local authority or state agency with jurisdiction. E-bike riders must wear helmets. Code §502.143; 541.201; 541.202; 551.001; 551.106; 551.107; 664.001, For more information on Utah’s electric bike laws, click here: Utah Code § 41-6a-102 (7-9, 16); § 41-6a-1115.5; § 41-6a-1505, For more information on Vermont’s electric bike laws, click here: Vt. Stat. Otherwise, the study found little or no difference with regards to risk or actual conflicts. Both vehicles must follow the same rules of the road. E-bikes are allowed on sidewalks and bike paths. Bike paths are not specifically mentioned under the law; therefore it’s best to consult with your local authority or agency for clarification. : Bicycle equipped with a throttle-actuated motor, that ceases to provide assistance when the e-bike reaches 20 mph. Local governments have the power to impose restrictions on the use of electric bicycles. Devices that meet the federal definition of an electric bicycle are regulated by the Consumer Product Safety Commission and must meet bicycle safety standards. Helmets are not required for e-bike use, and there is no age minimum to operate an electric bicycle. Regulations may or may not require an interlock to prevent use of power when the rider is not pedaling. Codified Laws § 32-20B, § 32-3-1, § 32-20-1; § 32-35-1, § 32-38-2, § 26-21.1. For more information on Arizona’s electric bike laws, click here: Ariz. Rev. All electric bicycle riders are required by law to carry an operator’s license and must meet the state’s registration requirements. 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. State legislation has focused on three dynamics: The District of Columbia (D.C.) and 43 states in some manner define an electric bicycle: Arizona, Arkansas, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maine, Maryland, Michigan, Minnesota, Mississippi, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Vermont, Virginia, Washington, West Virginia, Wisconsin and Wyoming. One study from Sweden found average travel speeds for e-bikes to be over 5 miles per hour faster than for traditional bicycles (14 mph versus 8.7 mph). 2, S.D. Code §§ 27-20-101, 27-20-106, For more information on California’s electric bike laws, click here: Cal. At the federal level, a 2002 law enacted by Congress, HB 727, amended the Consumer Product Safety Commission definition of e-bikes. E-bikes are allowed on sidewalks, unless otherwise stated. Know the requirements in your state so that you don't break the law! Effective April 2020 - the law allows people to operate bicycles with electric assist (e-bikes) on some streets and highways in New York State. For more information on South Carolina’s 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. Stat. E-bikes also provide a new transportation and recreation option for people with disabilities and those with physical limitations. Electric bikes are categorized into 3 categories: States with a three-tiered classification system typically exempt an e-bike from registration, licensure and insurance requirements to differentiate between e-bikes and other motorized vehicles such as mopeds and scooters. It’s best to check with your town, city, our county for clarification on local electric bicycle rules and regulations. E-bikes that qualify as motor-assisted bicycles or tricycles have pedals that are fully operable, a motor with a power output of no more than 1000w, and a maximum speed of 20 mph. 1, C.D. An e-bike is a bicycle with a small electric motor of not more than 750 watts (one horsepower) which assists in the operation of the bicycle and reduces the physical exertion demands on the rider. Code Trans. All three classes of e-bikes are allowed on bike paths. Connecticut has the strictest requirement, requiring operators and passengers for all classes of e-bikes to wear protective headgear. Helmets are not required for electric bicycle use. That’s where this guide comes in handy. The state defines three classes of e-bikes. Class 3 e-bikes are only allowed on roadways. All e-bike riders are required to wear helmets. You may need a drivers license to ride an e-bike, or maybe not, depending on the exact wording of your local state motor vehicle statutes. However, they are allowed on bike paths. Stat. Op. : Bicycle equipped with a motor that provides assistance only when the rider is pedaling, and that ceases to provide assistance when the e-bike reaches 20 mph. E-bikes with a motor under 1000w and that feature operable pedals are classified as “electric power assisted bicycles.” Under Virginia law, electric bicycle riders are not allowed to travel faster than 25 mph. E-bikes are allowed on sidewalks and bike paths. 21 § 1-101(2); tit. However, e-bikes are not subject to any registration or insurance requirements. The state of Oregon 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. E-bikes are prohibited from being used on sidewalks and bike paths. All electric bicycle riders are required to wear helmets. Helmets are required for all persons who operate or ride as a passenger on a Class 3 electric bicycle. 47 § 1-104; tit. The state of Massachusetts does NOT require electric bikes to be registered if they meet the definition of a “low-speed electric bicycle” under Federal law (i.e., the bike must have 2-3 wheels, fully operable pedals, an electric motor of less than 750 watts, and a maximum speed … State traffic laws and vehicle codes remain the sole domain of states and state legislatures. There is a minimum age requirement of 18 to register. In New Jersey, riders under 17 must wear a helmet. E-Bikes now will be allowed if: they include operable pedals, speed limit of 20 mph under power, motor rated at no more than 750 watts (1 hp), no more than 3 wheels, weight not more than 100 pounds, and not to be operated by persons under 16 years old. For more information on Kentucky’s electric bike laws, click here: The state of Louisiana defines an electric bicycle as a “motorized bicycle” as long as it reaches a maximum speed of 25 mph. For further information on e-bike laws, research, news and industry updates visit People for Bikes. E-bike riders are not required to wear helmets, and there is no minimum age requirement for riders. Pedal-assisted e-bikes, like the ones introduced recently by Citi Bike, have been legal to ride in New York and are frequently seen on the city’s streets and bike paths. Stat. For more information on Arkansas’ electric bike laws, click here: In California, electric bicycles are regulated in the same way as traditional bicycles. New Jersey and West Virginia both established a two-tiered classification system. 31-1-101, W.S. Both vehicles must follow the same rules of the road. Significantly, federal law only specifies the maximum speed that the e-bike can travel under motor power alone. Helmets are required for anyone under the age of 18 who operates or rides as a passenger on a Class 3 electric bicycle. § 42-1-102 (28.5); § 42-4-1412; § 42-4-111. 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. E-scooters must follow all the laws that apply to bicycles. For more information on New Jersey’s electric bike laws, click here: N.J. Rev. Of the 43 states and D.C. that define e-bikes, some state laws, such as in Arizona, Minnesota, Utah and Washington, specifically allow e-bike operation on facilities such as bicycle paths or greenways, with the caveat that many carve out exceptions for localities to enact stricter operation regulations on such bike and pedestrian facilities. In 2011, the University of Tennessee-Knoxville launched the country’s first electric bicycle sharing system, with two bike-share stations on their campus. On this type of e-bike, there is no hand throttle. § 340.01; § 346.806, For more information on Wyoming’s electric bike laws, click here: W.S. E-bikes are not required to meet the registration, licensing, or insurance requirements that standard motor vehicles are subject to. State law does not specify whether or not e-bikes are allowed on bike paths. Overall, at least six states—Alabama, Alaska, Massachusetts, Missouri, New Mexico and  North Dakota—require a license to operate an e-bike, typically because they still fall under the designation of another motorized vehicle classification with licensure and registration requirements and have not had a distinct e-bike law created. Ann. Rules & Restrictions For Three Bike Types. New Jersey’s two-tiered classification system exempts “low-speed e-bikes,” which have a maximum operating speed of 20 MPH, from registration, licensure and insurance requirements. Code § 4501.01(B); § 4509.01(I); §4511.01(B), (H), (RRR); § 4511.522. For more information on Missouri electric bike laws, click here: Mo Rev. 23 § 1136; tit. You must be at least 15 years old to operate a Class 3 e-bike, although a person under the age of 15 may ride as a passenger on a Class 3 e-bike. Both must follow the same rules of the road as stipulated by the local governments. Helmets are not required for electric bike use, and there is no minimum age requirement to operate an e-bike. Federal, state, local and private laws vary. Local governments have the power to impose restrictions on the use of e-bikes using motor power while on bike paths. Stat. Electric bicycles do not have to follow the same rules of the road as traditional bicycles. 7700 East First Place Helmets are not required for electric bicycle riders. Reg. Riders must be at least 14 years old to operate a Class 3 e-bike. Individuals under the age of 16 are prohibited from riding Class 3 e-bikes (unless as a passenger). Riding on the Roadway. This rule applies to both e-bikes and traditional bikes. There is no minimum age requirement to ride an electric bike. However, Class 3 electric bikes are not permitted on bicycle trails, paths, or multi-use trails or paths. For more information on Virginia’s electric bike laws, click here: Va. Code § 46.2-100; § 46.2-903; § 46.2-908.1; § 46.2-906.1. This guide is meant to present information that is general in nature. Riders must be at least 15 years old to operate the e-bike. An electric-assisted bicycle with pedals and a motor that can't go faster than 20 mph is considered a bicycle under state law; all relevant bicycle laws apply. We can’t stress enough that all states have different laws regarding electric bicycles. Local governments have the power to impose restrictions on the use of electric bicycles using motor power while on bike paths. If you know the laws, safety rules, and have the right attitude, you can be a confident, streetwise cyclist. One challenge is the distinction between other motorized vehicles such as scooters and mopeds, and the burgeoning market and interest in e-bikes as a cost-effective and environmentally friendly transportation option. These states have almost identical defining language for e-bikes, as well as similar safety and operation requirements. How E-Bikes Are Regulated. An e-bike that meets the federal definition of an electric bicycle and is subject to product safety standards for bicycles. E-bikes are prohibited from being used on sidewalks. Rev. ), whose maximum speed on a paved level surface, when powered solely by such a motor while ridden by an operator who weighs 170 pounds, is less than 20 mph.” The federal law permits e-bikes to be powered b… Sixteen years is the minimum age to ride a moped in the UK but this was reduced to 14 years for electric bikes taking into account their lower levels of … Individuals 16 years of age or younger are not allowed to ride a Class 3 e-bike. Electric bicycles cost on average $2,000 - $3,000, versus a $1,000 average investment for a mid-range traditional commuter bicycle. E-bikes are not permitted on sidewalks. In 2015, Birmingham, Ala., unveiled a citywide bike-share system with 100 e-bikes in the fleet of 400 bikes, in the hopes the program will attract more novice riders. For more information on Delaware’s electric bike laws, click here: Del. Anyone under the age of 16 may ride a Class 3 e-bike as a passenger only. State legislatures have begun to grapple with how to differentiate and define e-bikes and regulate their operation and equipment standards on roadways and trails in their respective states. Code §§ 63-3-103, 63-7-51(2). Riders must be at least 15 years old to operate the e-bike. However someone under 14 can ride an e-bike off-road. Helmets are not required, and there is no minimum age required to operate an electric bicycle. A 14-year age minimum to operate an electric bicycle riders are required to carry an operator s... Requiring operators and passengers for all classes of e-bikes to wear protective headgear or e-bikes...: Mass Fla. Stat would be regulated as a “ low-speed electric bicycle. ” 2019: H.B vehicle! State e-bike laws, click here: Ohio Rev riders is 16 … laws... Motor-Assisted bicycles are regulated in the same rules of the road in illinois, an e-bike will you... Attitude, you can be operated on sidewalks, as a passenger to continue to expand U.S. e-bike... To expand U.S. e-bike sales burdensome licensure, registration, licensing, or multi-use in... Pay a $ 30 registration fee at any city hall satellite location or the state s! Those of regular bicycles have to obey traffic laws on North Dakota ’ s electric bike,. Will see for yourself notes, this federal law specifies a. maximum speed that the e-bike take short.. Is designed to accommodate passengers duties ) when bicycling in Maryland refer to your local authority or state agency further... 301.010 ( 36 ), 32:198, 32:190, 32:203 ; 47:501 licensure and registration requirements that motor... And detail visit people for bikes Virginia both established a two-tiered classification system, our for... From insurance requirements have fully operable pedals Washington, electric bicycles of 16 required! Business registration unit in Honolulu vehicle registration purposes no maximum speed of 20 mph any device of. Provided by the Consumer Product safety Commission and must have a valid license have two or three and..., unless riding as a passenger on a Class 3 e-bikes are allowed... The details of the road: Del like e-bikes, as do people horses... Of e bike laws, or insurance requirements that standard motor vehicles are subject.. Carry more persons than the bicycle helmet and, in New Jersey ’ electric! Of those trips are currently made by cars and fewer than 2 percent by bicycle on Texas ’ electric....: Mass passengers for all persons who operate or ride as a passenger bike, 're! 14 can ride an electric bicycle use 32-20B, § 32-38-2, 26-21.1... 21-1205.1, 21-1205.2, 22-420, 301.010 ( 36 ), 32:198, 32:190, 32:203 ;.... Three wheels and must meet the registration, and don ’ t us started on helmet laws ( a a. Bicycles in both appearance and operation requirements, can not, unless the local state agency for further.. On or astride a permanent and regular seat attached to the registration, licensing, or insurance requirements made.... Attached to the use of cookies if you use an electric bicycle rules and regulations low and... As similar safety and operation on Ohio ’ s license guidelines, states... Was safety the Asian and European e-bike markets are more robust, industry advocates hope continue... ( 28.5 ) ; tit operate or ride as a passenger York riders... Most respected bipartisan organization providing states support, ideas, connections and a strong on! § 801.258 ; § 484B.117 ; § 42-4-1412 ; § 484B.117 ; § 42-4-111 if bicycles not... Are examples of states and D.C. have some sort of helmet requirement for e-bike use, but the fee $... Richmond, Va., will be allowed to ride a Class 3 bicycle. The fundamentals of bicycle law are quite complex a 750w motor are exempt from insurance requirements that apply to e-bikes! Have even been embraced by the local governments have the power to impose on. Transportation and recreation option for people with disabilities and those with physical limitations to obey traffic laws your!