Some states specify a minimum age for riding an e-Bike. States like Massachusetts, Pennsylvania, and Oregon require that riders must be 16 or older, for example. Other states permit e-Bike use at 14 or 15 years old while others don’t have an age limit.
Understanding E-Bike Regulations and Laws: What Every Cyclist Should Know
Written by: Rémy Rossi | December 13, 2024 | Time to read 4 min
Do you know when e-Bikes are legal and when they’re not? Get informed to ride within the lines and the letter of the law.
More about the Author: Remy Rossi
Rémy Rossi is a bike writer, mechanic, and educator who got his start in community-based bike shops and co-ops. With a decade in the industry, he still wrenches on bikes when he can and plays bike polo on a fixie.
I praise the cycling community for generally being a rule-following bunch. Okay, maybe there’s the occasional skipped stop sign or anticipated traffic light, but at least we’re not as bad as car drivers. When it comes to electric bikes, there are a few more rules and regulations to consider to ensure we’re doing as we’re told.
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Understanding e-Bike laws
Electric bike laws are different in every state and there are specific rules, requirements, and speed limits at the local level. There is, however, a federal definition of electric bikes and standard categories that have been adopted by a majority of states. According to federal regulations, a low-speed electric bike is one with fully operable pedals, a motor rated at 750 watts or fewer, and a top speed of 20 mph.
Our friends over at PeopleForBikes maintain a state-by-state guide for electric bike laws so you can easily check the rules that apply to you.
E-Bike Classes
Most e-Bike laws are based on the three-tiered classification system for electric bikes. As of late 2024, at least 36 US states have adopted this system. Having a shared, easy-to-understand standard across states helps manufacturers produce legal e-Bikes and helps consumers know exactly what they’re getting.
Electric bikes are divided into three classes based on the type of motor assistance and top speed:
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“Classless” e-Bikes
Some electric bikes don’t neatly fall into one of the three classes. This happens most often with e-Bikes with a throttle that can assist up to (or more than) 28 mph and those with motors over 750W. I’ve seen this a lot with entry-level brands with 1000W+ hub motors that can reach speeds of more than 30 mph. I think brands are gradually reining this in as countries, especially in Europe, are beginning to crack down on imports of “illegal” or overpowered e-Bikes.
Class 1 e-Bikes can be ridden almost anywhere. Check out Upway’s selection:
E-Biking in the National Parks
The National Park Service now recognizes the three-class e-bike system which is great news for e-Bikers. This opens up a ton of land and new terrain for e-Bike riders to explore, especially when it comes to electric mountain bikes. Other federal agencies like the Department of the Interior, the Bureau of Land Management, the Bureau of Reclamation, and the Fish and Wildlife Service have also adopted the system— the U.S. Forest Service remains a holdout, though (government bureaucracy is agonizingly slow).
Individual park superintendents still make the rules, of course, but most allow Class 1 and Class 2 e-Bikes to ride where traditional bikes are allowed. Riding a Class 3 e-Bike or faster electric off-road bike may still be restricted from many areas. If you’re headed to any of these areas, check the rules online or pay attention at the trailhead for signs limiting e-Bike use.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there an age limit for e-Bikes?
Can you ride an e-Bike without a license?
It depends on the state. Some states like Alaska, New Jersey, and Arizona require a license to ride a fast electric bike that travels more than 25 mph. Most states, however, don’t require a license to operate an e-Bike. As more e-Bike legislation is introduced, there are fewer license requirements for e-Bikes.
Are helmets required when riding an e-Bike?
Helmets are always a good idea when riding any type of bike and some states require it. Pennsylvania, Massachusetts, and Oregon are some of the states that require wearing a helmet when riding an e-Bike, though most states don’t have a legal requirement.
Key Takeaways
State and Local Laws Vary: E-Bike regulations differ by state, including age limits, helmet requirements, and licensing for faster bikes. Check local rules to stay informed.
Expanded Access to Public Lands: Many federal agencies, including the National Park Service, now allow Class 1 and Class 2 e-Bikes where traditional bicycles are permitted, offering more opportunities for exploring public trails and parks.
