Laws For Electric Bikes - State by State

Electric bikes are simply bicycles that have a motorwatts.
attached to the pedals and are powered by a battery.Connecticut - Valid motor vehicle license required
There are many variations and models available forunless excused by a doctor. Motor cannot exceed 50
those wishing to save money and are considering ancc.
alternate form of transportation. An informed decisionFlorida - Minimum age is 16.
on the choice of bicycle depends on staying current onHawaii - Electric bikes are illegal.
the laws of the state in which it will be used. SinceIndiana - Same laws as Federal.
electric bikes are gaining in popularity, it is important toIowa - Same laws as Federal.
stay abreast of the changing laws with regards toKentucky - Driver's license and helmet required.
their use on public roads.Louisiana - License, registration and helmet required.
Federal law limits the speed of electric bikes to 20Minimum age is 15 years.
miles per hour and the battery power cannot exceedMassachusetts - License and helmet required. Minimum
750 watts. Cyclists must obey the same traffic lawsage is 16 years.
and operators of automobiles. Cyclists do not need aMinnesota - License, registration and helmet required.
driver's license, insurance or a state license plate toMinimum age is 16 years.
ride on public roads though some highways prohibitNevada - Same laws as Federal.
bicycles of any type. In most states it is illegal to ride aNew Jersey - Electric bikes are illegal on public roads.
bicycle on sidewalks and it is certainly unsafe asNew York - Electric bikes are currently illegal on public
motorists are not looking for bicycles at intersectionsroads.
but on the road and may not see a cyclist in time toOhio - Electric bikes are illegal without registration of
avoid a crash.certain models but generally accepted as standard
Available states will be listed alphabetically and anybicycles.
differences in Federal law as stated above will beOregon - Same laws as Federal.
highlighted. If there is no difference, it will not bePennsylvania - Class C license, insurance and
mentioned. It is stressed to make sure the laws areregistration required.
current for the state and locality in which the electricTennessee - Helmet required. Minors from 14-16 must
bike will be operated by checking with local officials.have restricted license.
Local laws can restrict the use of electric bikes further.Texas - Weight of electric bicycle cannot exceed 100
Alabama - State license Class M is required forpounds. Cyclists under age 21 are required to wear
operation of any motor vehicle. Operators under 14helmet unless excused by physician or chiropractor.
must have a learner's permit.Utah - Driver's license required.
Arkansas - State license Class A, B, C or D requiredVirginia - Same laws as Federal.
or a motorcycle license, certificate to operate aWashington - Minors under 16 are prohibited from
motorized bicycle or a motor-driven cycle license.operating an electric bicycle.
Children under 10 years old cannot be issuedIf your state is not listed or not current, please check
certificates. There is no law specific to electric bikeswith local officials to be certain of the current laws.
but the motor cannot exceed 50 cc.Violating a law because you did not know about it is
California - Helmet required. Maximum battery powerno excuse and not acceptable. Know the law, before
1000 watts. Minimum age is 16.you buy.
Colorado - Maximum power cannot exceed 1000