E-BIKES, E-SCOOTERS AND E-MOTORCYCLES
E-bikes and e-scooters offer a new, active and convenient way to travel. From personal use to shared service options, there are different types of devices, which is why it is important to understand the rules, laws and safe use of all electric mobility devices.
E-Bikes
An electric bicycle (e-bike) is a bicycle equipped with working pedals and an electric motor that does not exceed 750 watts.
There are three classes of e-bikes (CVC 312.5(a)):
| Type of E-Bike* | Pedal Assist | Speed | Age and Helmet Requirements |
| Class 1 | Yes | Up to 20 mph, no throttle | No age limit. Helmet required for 17 and under. |
| Class 2 | No (throttle or push button) | Up to 20 mph | No age limit. Helmet required for 17 and under. |
| Class 3 | Yes | Up to 28 mph | Must be 16 or older. Helmet required for all ages. |
*All e-bikes must have pedals.
E-Bike Safety Basics Training Video
Where to Ride
- The same rules of the road for vehicles apply to e-bikes.
- Type 1 and 2 e-bikes are allowed wherever regular bicycles are allowed on paved areas and multi-use trails. Type 3 e-bikes are prohibited from multi-use trails unless otherwise specified.
- Local rules may vary on the use of e-bikes. Check with your town, city or county for local rules and regulations.
- California State Parks lists which parks and what class of e-bikes you are allowed to ride.
- E-bikes at federal parks are considered motorized vehicles. You may contact the U.S. Bureau of Land Management to learn more about where e-bikes are allowed, including motorized areas and off-highway vehicle trails.
E-Scooters
Like e-bikes, electric scooters (e-scooters) are subject to the same traffic safety laws as bicycles and vehicles.
- E-scooter riders must be at least 16 years old and have a valid California Learner’s Permit or Driver’s License. (CVC 21235)
- Riders 17 and under must wear a helmet when riding on an e-scooter (CVC 21235).
- Riders must not exceed 15 mph on their e-scooter (CVC 22411).
- E-scooters may not be ridden on sidewalks. They can be used on bike trails and bike lanes. (CVC 21235 and CVC 21229).
- E-scooters are for solo riders. Tandem riding is not allowed. (CVC 21235)
- Other E-Scooter safety tips (City of Long Beach)
E-Bike Safety Tips
- Always wear a properly fitted helmet, regardless of your age or the type of bike you are riding.
- Helmets are required for anyone under 18.
- Follow the rules of the road, including stopping at stop signs. E-bikes are subject to the same laws as traditional bicycles.
- Ride in the same direction as traffic, staying in the right lane unless turning left.
- Share the road: Be aware of other bikes, drivers and people walking. Use hand signals to let drivers know of your actions and stop for pedestrians at crosswalks.
E-motorcycles
- Any self-propelled device, whether it is gas or electric, and goes faster than 30 miles per hour is considered a motorcycle.
- Only e-motorcycles registered with the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) may be ridden on roads or at off-highway vehicle (OHV) parks.
- E-motorcycles are prohibited from trails, bike lanes and sidewalks (CVC 400(a)(b), CVC 405, CVC 473(a).
- Riders must have a valid driver’s license with an M1 or M2 endorsement.
- DOT-approved helmets are required for riders and passengers, regardless of age.
Resources
E-Bike and E-Scooter Bookmark Tip Card
E-Bike & E-Scooter Safety Fact Sheet (City of Roseville)
CHP Electric Bicycle Safety Training
People for Bikes and League of American Bicyclists: What is an E-Bike?
Danville “Not My Kid: E-Bike Safety for Families
E-Scooter & E-Bike Palm Card (Spanish)