United States Electric bicycle laws

1 united states

1.1 federal laws , regulations on sale of electric bicycles

1.1.1 defined


1.2 state requirements use

1.2.1 comparison of state rules , regulations
1.2.2 alabama
1.2.3 arizona
1.2.4 arkansas
1.2.5 california
1.2.6 colorado
1.2.7 connecticut
1.2.8 district of columbia
1.2.9 florida
1.2.10 georgia
1.2.11 hawaii
1.2.12 illinois
1.2.13 indiana
1.2.14 iowa
1.2.15 kentucky
1.2.16 louisiana
1.2.17 maryland
1.2.18 massachusetts
1.2.19 michigan
1.2.20 minnesota
1.2.21 mississippi
1.2.22 missouri
1.2.23 montana
1.2.24 nebraska
1.2.25 nevada
1.2.26 new jersey
1.2.27 new york
1.2.28 ohio
1.2.29 oregon
1.2.30 pennsylvania
1.2.31 tennessee
1.2.32 texas
1.2.33 utah
1.2.34 vermont
1.2.35 virginia
1.2.36 washington

united states
federal laws , regulations on sale of electric bicycles

the u.s. consumer product safety act states electric bicycles , tricycles meeting definition of low-speed electric bicycles considered consumer products. consumer product safety commission (cpsc) has regulatory authority assure, through guidelines , standards, public protected unreasonable risks of injury or death associated use of electric bicycles.

defined

the federal consumer product safety act defines low speed electric bicycle 2 or 3 wheeled vehicle operable pedals, top speed when powered solely motor under 20 mph (32 km/h) , electric motor produces less 750 w (1.01 hp). act authorizes consumer product safety commission protect people ride low-speed electric vehicles issuing necessary safety regulations. rules e-bikes on public roads, sidewalks, , pathways under state jurisdiction, , vary.

in conformance legislation adopted u.s. congress defining category of electric-power bicycle (15 u.s.c. 2085(b)), cpsc rules stipulate low speed electric bicycles (to include two- , three-wheel vehicles) exempt classification motor vehicles providing have operable pedals, electric motor of less 750w (1 hp), , top motor-powered speed of less 20 miles per hour (32 km/h) when operated rider weighing 170 pounds. electric bike remaining within these specifications subject cpsc consumer product regulations bicycle. commercially manufactured e-bikes exceeding these power , speed limits regulated federal dot , nhtsa motor vehicles, , must meet additional safety requirements. legislation enacting amendment cpsc known hr 727. text of hr 727 includes statement: section shall supersede state law or requirement respect low-speed electric bicycles extent such state law or requirement more stringent federal law or requirements. (note refers consumer product regulations enacted under consumer product safety act. preemption of more stringent state consumer product regulations not limit state authority regulate use of electric bicycles, or bicycles in general, under state vehicle codes.)

state requirements use

while federal law governs consumer product regulations low speed electric bicycles , motor vehicles , bicycles, regulation of how these products used on public streets subject state vehicle codes. there significant variation state state, summarized below.

comparison of state rules , regulations

identity: how legislation identify electric bicycle?
type: how law define vehicle type?
max speed: maximum speed when powered solely motor.
max power: maximum motor power, or engine size, permitted.
helmet: usage of helmet mandatory?
minimum age: operator s minimum age.
license: license or endorsement required?


alabama

every bicycle motor attached defined motor-driven cycle. operation of motor-driven cycle requires class m driver license. restricted class m driver licenses available young 14 years of age.

arizona

under arizona law, motorized electric bicycles , tricycles meeting definition under applicable statute not subject title, licensing, insurance, or registration requirements, , may used upon roadway authorized use conventional bicycles, including use in bike lanes integrated motor vehicle roadways. unless prohibited, electric bicycles may operated on multi-use trails designated hiking, biking, equestrian, or other non-motorized usage, , upon paths designated exclusive use of bicycles. no operator s license required, operating bicycle on arizona roads must carry proof of identity. motorized electric bicycle or tricycle legally defined bicycle or tricycle equipped helper motor may self-propelled, operated @ speeds of less twenty miles per hour. electric bicycles operated @ speeds of twenty miles hour or more, less twenty-five miles per hour may registered legal use on roadways mopeds, , above twenty-five miles per hour registered moped m endorsement on operator s driving license. however, mopeds in arizona prohibited using bike lanes on motor vehicle roadways. arizona statute governing motorized electric bicycles not prohibit local jurisdictions adopting ordinance further regulates or prohibits operation of motorized electric bicycles or tricycles.

arkansas

arkansas not define e-bikes. following definition describes combustion engine. e-bikes being electric not have cylinder capacity , law not technically applicable. state defines motorized bicycle bicycle automatic transmission , motor of less 50cc. riders require either certificate operate motorized bicycle, motorcycle license, motor-driven cycle license, or license of class a, b, c or d. certificates cannot issued riders under 10 years of age.

california

electric bicycles defined california vehicle code.

new legislation became effective january 2016. current regulations define electric bicycle , bicycle equipped operable pedals , electric motor of less 750 watts, separated 3 classes:

a class 1 electric bicycle, or low-speed pedal-assisted electric bicycle, bicycle equipped motor provides assistance when rider pedaling, , ceases provide assistance when bicycle reaches speed of 20 miles per hour. (2) class 2 electric bicycle, or low-speed throttle-assisted electric bicycle, bicycle equipped motor may used exclusively propel bicycle, , not capable of providing assistance when bicycle reaches speed of 20 miles per hour. class 3 electric bicycle, or speed pedal-assisted electric bicycle, bicycle equipped motor provides assistance when rider pedaling, (no throttle) , ceases provide assistance when bicycle reaches speed of 28 miles per hour, , equipped speedometer. local government ordinances allowed permit or ban class of electric bicycles on dedicated bicycle paths , trails, class 1 & 2 permitted, , class 3 banned, default.

beginning january 1, 2017, manufacturers , distributors of electric bicycles required apply label permanently affixed, in prominent location, each electric bicycle, indicating class. should user tamper or modify electric bicycle, changing speed capability, must replace label indicating classification.

driver s licenses, registration, insurance , license plate requirements not apply. electric bicycle not motor vehicle. drinking , driving laws apply. additional laws or ordinances may apply use of electric bicycles each city or county.

colorado

ebike definition in colorado follows hr 727 national law: 20 mph (30 km/h) e-power , 750 w (1 hp) max, 2 or 3 wheels, pedals work. legal low-powered ebikes allowed on roads , bike lanes, , prohibited using motors on bike , pedestrian paths, unless overridden local ordinance. city of boulder first have done so, banning ebikes on 400w bike lanes. bicycles , ebikes disallowed on high speed highways , interstates unless signed allowed in rural interstate stretches interstate means of travel.

connecticut

section 14-1 of connecticut state law classifies electric bicycles motor-driven cycles if have seat height of not less 26 inches , motor produces brake horsepower of 5 or less.

motor-driven cycles may operated on roadway without registration, operator must have driver s license. cycle may not operated on sidewalk, limited access highway or turnpike. if maximum speed of cycle less speed limit of road, cycle must operate in right hand lane available traffic or upon usable shoulder on right side of road unless operator making left turn.

district of columbia

electric-assist , other motorized bicycles not need inspected, not require license, , not require registration. vehicle must meet of following criteria: post mounted seat each person designed carry, 2 or 3 wheels contact ground, operative pedals, wheels @ least 16 inches in diameter , motor not capable of propelling device @ more 20 mph on level ground. driver not need license, must @ least 16 years old. dc law prohibits motorized bicycles traveling anywhere on sidewalk or in bike lanes. dc regulation 18-1201.18 provides: except otherwise permitted motor vehicle, no person shall operate motorized bicycle on sidewalk or off-street bikepath or bicycle route within district. prohibition shall apply though motorized bicycle being operated solely human power. so, if cars prohibited in particular place, motor-assisted bikes prohibited.

florida

florida dmv procedure rs-61 ii. (b.) dirt bikes noted off road use, motorized bicycles , go-peds not registered.

electric helper-motor bicycles

if @ least 16 years old, person may ride bicycle propelled combination of human power (pedals) , electric helper-motor cannot go faster 20 mph on level ground without driver license.

motorized bicycles , motorized scooters

under title 23, chapter 316 of code, bicycles , motorized bicycles defined follows: bicycle—every vehicle propelled solely human power, , every motorized bicycle propelled combination of human power , electric helper motor capable of propelling vehicle @ speed of not more 20 miles per hour on level ground upon person may ride, having 2 tandem wheels, , including device recognized bicycle though equipped 2 front or 2 rear wheels. term not include such vehicle seat height of no more 25 inches ground when seat adjusted highest position or scooter or similar device. no person under age of 16 may operate or ride upon motorized bicycle. motorized scooter—any vehicle not having seat or saddle use of rider, designed travel on not more 3 wheels, , not capable of propelling vehicle @ speed greater 30 miles per hour on level ground.

in addition statutory language, there several judicial rulings on subject.

georgia

georgia code 40-1-1 part 15.5

(15.5) electric assisted bicycle means device 2 or 3 wheels has saddle , operative pedals human propulsion , has electric motor. such device considered electric assisted bicycle, shall meet requirements of federal motor vehicle safety standards, set forth in 49 c.f.r. section 571, et seq., , shall operate in such manner electric motor disengages or ceases function when brakes applied. electric motor in electric assisted bicycle shall:

(a) have power output of not more 1,000 watts;

(b) incapable of propelling device @ speed of more 20 miles per hour on level ground; and

(c) incapable of further increasing speed of device when human power alone used propel device @ or more 20 miles per hour.

hawaii

a federal agency, consumer product safety commission (cpsc), has exclusive jurisdiction on electric bicycles consumer product regulations, not change state regulation of use of electric bicycles on streets , highways.

bicycle means every vehicle propelled solely human power upon person may ride, having 2 tandem wheels, , including vehicle recognized bicycle though equipped 2 front or 2 rear wheels except toy bicycle.

moped means device upon person may ride dot approved.

under statute, mopeds must registered. registered under hawaii law moped must bear certification label manufacturer stating complies federal motor vehicle safety standards (fmvss). moped must possess following equipment approved d.o.t. under chapter 91: approved braking, fuel, , exhaust system components; approved steering system , handlebars; wheel rims; fenders; guard or protective covering drive belts, chains , rotating components; seat or saddle; lamps , reflectors; equipment controls; speedometer; retracting support stand; horn; , identification markings.

illinois

(625 ilcs 5/11‑1516)

sec. 11‑1516. low‑speed bicycles.
(a) person may operate low‑speed electric bicycle or low‑speed gas bicycle if person @ least 16 years of age.
(b) person may not operate low‑speed electric bicycle or low‑speed gas bicycle @ speed greater 20 miles per hour upon highway, street, or roadway.
(c) person may not operate low‑speed electric bicycle or low‑speed gas bicycle on sidewalk.
(d) except otherwise provided in section, provisions of article xv apply bicycles apply low‑speed electric bicycles , low‑speed gas bicycles.

(source: p.a. 96‑125, eff. 1‑1‑10.)

a motorized pedalcycle requires driver s license , limited 2 horsepower , 30 mph on 1-mile stretch.

indiana

an act amend indiana code concerning motor vehicles.

iowa

in 2006 bill passed changed definition of bicycle include bicycle has electric motor of less 1 hp (750 watts). new definition, found in iowa code section 321.1(40)c states:

bicycle means either of following: (1) device having 2 wheels , having @ least 1 saddle or seat use of rider propelled human power. (2) device having 2 or 3 wheels operable pedals , electric motor of less 750 watts (one horsepower), maximum speed on paved level surface, when powered solely such motor while ridden, less 20 miles per hour.

kentucky

electric bicycle fits under definition of moped under kentucky law. don t need tag or insurance, need driver s license. moped means either motorized bicycle frame design may include 1 (1) or more horizontal crossbars supporting fuel tank long has pedals, or motorized bicycle step-through type frame may or may not have pedals rated no more 2 (2) brake horsepower, cylinder capacity not exceeding fifty (50) cubic centimeters, automatic transmission not requiring clutching or shifting operator after drive system engaged, , capable of maximum speed of not more thirty (30) miles per hour helmets required.

louisiana

louisiana revised statute r.s. 32:1(41) defines motorized bicycle pedal bicycle may propelled human power or helper motor, or both, motor rated no more 1 , one-half brake horsepower, cylinder capacity not exceeding fifty cubic centimeters, automatic transmission, , produces maximum design speed of no more twenty-five miles per hour on flat surface. motorized bicycles falling within definition must registered , titled under louisiana law. additionally, motorized bicycle operated upon louisiana roadways or highways person fifteen years of age or older , producing more 5 horsepower must possesses valid driver s license motorcycle endorsement , adhere laws governing operation of motorcycle, including wearing of approved eye protectors or windshield , wearing of helmet. statute states motorized bicycles such pocket bikes , scooters not meet requirements of policy shall not registered.

as r.s. 32:1(41) refers motorized bicycles using automatic transmission helper motors rated in horsepower , cylinder capacity, not watts or volts, statute arguably not cover bicycles powered electric motor(s), whether self-propelled or pedal-assist designs.

maryland

maryland defines electric bicycle vehicle (1) designed operated human power assistance of electric motor, (2) equipped operable pedals, (3) has 2 or 3 wheels, (4) has motor rating of 500 watts or less, (5) , capable of maximum speed of 20 miles per hour on level surface when powered motor. (senate bill 379, approved governor 5/5/2014, chapter 294.) legislation excludes electric bicycle definition of moped , motorized minibike , , motor vehicle , , removes titling , insurance requirements required electric bicycles under prior maryland law.

before september 20, 2014, maryland law had classified electric bicycle moped. mopeds excluded definition of motor vehicle per § 11-135 of maryland transportation code. mopeds may not operated sidewalks, trails, roadways posted speeds in excess of 50 mph, or limited-access highways.

standard requirements bicycle lighting, acceptable bicycle parking locations, , prohibitions on wearing earplugs or headsets on both ears apply.

massachusetts

massachusetts general laws define 3 classes of motorized two-wheeled vehicles: motorcycle, motorized bicycle, , motorized scooter. although definition of motorized scooter includes two-wheeled vehicles propelled electric motors or without human power, motorized scooter excludes falls under definitions of motorized bicycle , motorcycle. motorized bicycle pedal bicycle has helper motor, or non-pedal bicycle has motor, cylinder capacity not exceeding fifty cubic centimeters, automatic transmission, , capable of maximum speed of no more thirty miles per hour. motorcycle includes bicycle motor or driving wheel attached, exception of vehicles fall under specific definition of motorized bicycle. thus, pedal bicycle electric motor or non-pedal bicycle electric motor, automatic transmission, , maximum speed of 30 miles hour fall under definition of motorized bicycle. electric bicycle did not meet restrictions either motorized scooter or motorcycle, depending on specific characteristics.

a motorized bicycle shall not operated person under sixteen years of age, nor @ speed in excess of twenty-five miles per hour, upon public highway, private way laid out under authority of statute, way dedicated public use, or way under control of park commissioners or body having powers, within commonwealth. motorized bicycle shall not operated on way person not possessing valid driver s license or learner s permit. every person operating motorized bicycle upon way shall have right use public ways in commonwealth except limited access or express state highways signs prohibiting bicycles have been posted, , shall subject traffic laws , regulations of commonwealth , regulations contained in section, except motorized bicycle operator may keep right when passing motor vehicle moving in travel lane of way, , motorized bicycle operator shall signal either hand intention stop or turn. motorized bicycles may operated on bicycle lanes adjacent various ways, shall excluded off-street recreational bicycle paths. every person operating motorized bicycle or riding passenger on motorized bicycle shall wear protective headgear conforming such minimum standards of construction , performance registrar may prescribe, , no person operating motorized bicycle shall permit other person ride passenger on such motorized bicycle unless such passenger wearing such protective headgear.

a response inquiry made mass dot/rmv indicates massachusetts recognize federal low speed electric bicycle federal law (15 u.s.c. § 2085) , interprets mean these ebikes not require license or registration. however, of materials available on rmv website not distinguish between motorized bicycle , low power ebikes. 1 form, bicycle conversion motorized bike, document exemption of low power ebikes.

michigan

(updated may 29, 2015)

if moped operator, must follow same traffic rules other motor vehicle operators. moped defined law motor vehicle 2 or 3 wheels that: •has engine not exceed 100 cc piston displacement •does not have gearshift •has top speed of 30 mph or less on level surface

vehicles exceeding of criteria above must registered , titled motorcycle. other types of vehicles, such electric scooters, pocket rockets , mini-choppers, may fit definition of moped or motorcycle, cannot registered department of state if lack equipment required law legally drive on public roads.

minnesota

electric-assisted bicycles, referred e-bikes, subset of bicycles equipped small attached motor. classified electric-assisted bicycle in minnesota, bicycle must have saddle , operable pedals, 2 or 3 wheels, , electric motor of 1,000 watts, meet federal motor vehicle safety standards. motor must disengage during braking , have maximum speed of 20 miles per hour (whether assisted human power or not). minn. stat. §169.011, subd. 27.

legislative changes in 2012 altered classification , regulatory structure e-bikes. general effect establish electric-assisted bicycles subset of bicycles , regulate e-bikes in same manner bicycles instead of other motorized devices 2 (or three) wheels. laws 2012, ch. 287, art. 3, §§ 15-17, 21, 23-26, 30, 32-33, , 41. 2012 legislature modified , clarified regulation of e-bikes on bike paths , trails. laws 2012, ch. 287, art. 4, §§ 1-4, 20.

following 2012 change, electric-assisted bicycles regulated other bicycles. of same laws apply. minn. stat. § §169.011, subd. 27; 169.222.

the bicycle not need registered, , title no longer necessary. minn. stat. §§ 168.012, subd. 2d;168a.03, subd. 1 clause(11)

a license plate no longer required displayed on rear. see minn. stat. § 169.79, subd. 3. not subject motor vehicle sales tax (the general sales tax instead owed on e-bike purchases).

a driver s license or permit not required. unlike non-powered bicycle, minimum operator age 15 years old. minn. stat. § 169.222, subd. 6a.

the device not need insured. see minn. stat. § 65b.43, subds. 2, 13.

electric-assisted bicycle operators must follow same traffic laws operators of motor vehicles (except nature not relevant). bicycles may operated 2 abreast. operators must ride close practical right-hand side of road (exceptions include when overtaking vehicle, preparing left turn, , avoid unsafe conditions). bicycle must ridden within single lane. travel on shoulder of road must in same direction direction of adjacent traffic.

some prohibitions apply, such on: carrying cargo prevents keeping @ least 1 hand on handlebars or prevents proper use of brakes, riding no more 2 abreast on roadway or shoulder, , attaching bicycle vehicle. minn. stat. § 169.222, subds. 3-5. vehicles may operated on sidewalk except in business district or when prohibited local unit of government, , must yield pedestrians on sidewalk. minn. stat. § 169.223, subd. 3. default, electric-assisted bicycles allowed on road shoulders on bicycle trails, bicycle paths, , bicycle lanes.

a local unit of government having jurisdiction on road or bikeway (including department of natural resources in case of state bike trails) authorized restrict e-bike use if: use not consistent safety or general welfare of others; or restriction necessary meet terms of legal agreements concerning land on bikeway has been established.

electric-assisted bicycles can parked on sidewalk unless restricted local government (although cannot impede normal movement of pedestrians) , can parked on streets parking of other motor vehicles allowed. minn. stat. § 169.222, subd. 9.

during nighttime operation, bicycle must equipped front headlamp, rear-facing red reflector, , reflectors on front , rear of pedals, , bicycle or rider must have reflective surfaces on each side. minn. stat. §169.222, subd. 6. electric-assisted bicycle can equipped front-facing headlamp emits flashing white light, rear-facing lamp has flashing red light, or both. bicycle can carry studded tires designed traction (such in snowy or icy conditions).

helmets no longer required e-bike use.

mississippi

in opinion no. 2007-00602 of attorney general, jim hood clarified bicycle motor attached not satisfy definition of motor vehicle under section 63-3-103. stated authority creating bike lane determine if bicycle motor attached can ridden in bike lanes. no specifications motor made.

in opinion no. 2011-00095 of attorney general, jim hood stated operator s license, helmet, safety insurance, title, registration, , safety inspection not required of bicycles motor attached.

missouri

electric bicycles appear considered motorized bicycles under missouri law. (307.180 rsmo).

the missouri department of natural resources has policy electric bicycle use on katy trail, state s longest trail partially funded federal funds:

all motorized equipment prohibited except official , emergency vehicles. electrically assisted pedal-powered bicycles , tricycles (maximum speed of 20 mph) electrically powered-mobility devices persons disabilities such motorized wheelchairs , scooters allowed.

montana

electric bicycles considered bicycles under montana law law defines bicycles in 2 part definition first part of definition describes conventional bicycle propelled solely human power , second part of definition describes bicycle equipped independent power source propulsion in addition foot pedals permit muscular propulsion. (montana code 61-8-102).

61-8-102.(2)(b) bicycle means:

(i) vehicle propelled solely human power upon person may ride , has 2 tandem wheels , seat height of more 25 inches ground when seat raised highest position, except scooters , similar devices; or

(ii) vehicle equipped 2 or 3 wheels, foot pedals permit muscular propulsion, , independent power source providing maximum of 2 brake horsepower. if combustion engine used, maximum piston or rotor displacement may not exceed 3.05 cubic inches, 50 centimeters, regardless of number of chambers in power source. power source may not capable of propelling device, unassisted, @ speed exceeding 30 miles hour, 48.28 kilometers hour, on level surface. device must equipped power drive system functions directly or automatically , not require clutching or shifting operator after drive system engaged.

it should noted definition written not define power of motor in watts conventionally done electric bicycles rather in brake horsepower. electric bicycle, motor kit, or electric bicycle motor not rated manufacture in brake horsepower rather in watts conversion must made in units conversion not given in code of law , court have consider factor of conversion not directly encoded in law. industry standard conversion watts horsepower electric motors 1 horsepower = 746 watts. acceptance of conversion factor industry, however, interpretation of law subject process of courts since not defined in law.

in addition specific wording of law may or may not prohibit use of mid-drive or crank-drive motor set-up motor drives rear wheel of bicycle through existing chain drive of bicycle has multiple gears depending on several points of interpretation of law. interpretation of wording, not require clutching or shifting operator after drive system engaged . mid-drive or crank-drive motor set-up on electric bicycle indeed allow operator change gears in power drive system between motor , rear wheel of bicycle. whether or not such mechanism allows operator change gears satisfies wording requires operator change gears matter of legal interpretation courts. shall issue , may issue (as in laws governing issuing licenses) in application of law have 2 different meanings (in first case if meet requirements have give license , in second don t have if decide not if meet requirements license) whether or not not require shifting outlaws electric bicycles shifting possible not required matter of interpretation. legality of electric bicycles equipped mid-drive or crank-drive motor set-up in u.s. state of montana not defined.

nebraska

nebraska defines moped bicycle operative pedals propulsion human power, automatic transmission, , motor cylinder capacity not exceeding fifty cubic centimeters produces no more 2 brake horsepower , capable of propelling bicycle @ maximum design speed of no more thirty miles per hour on level ground.

however, under bill passed february 20, 2015 electric bicycles explicitly defined.

bicycle shall mean (1) every device propelled solely human power, upon person may ride, , having 2 tandem wheels either of more fourteen inches in diameter or (2) device 2 or 3 wheels, operative pedals propulsion human power, , electric motor capacity not exceeding 7 hundred fifty watts produces no more 1 brake horsepower , capable of propelling bicycle @ maximum design speed of no more twenty miles per hour on level ground.

nevada

as of may 19, 2009, nevada amended state transportation laws explicitly permit electric bicycles use trail or pedestrian walkway intended use bicycles , constructed federal funding, , otherwise permits electric bicycles operated in cases regular bicycle be. electric bicycle defined two- or three-wheeled vehicle operable pedals electric motor producing 1 gross brake horsepower , 750 watts final output, , maximum speed of 20 miles per hour on flat ground 170-pound rider when powered engine.

new jersey

under new jersey law motorized bicycle pedal bicycle having helper motor characterized in either maximum piston displacement less 50 cc, motor rated @ no more 1.5 brake horsepower, or powered electric drive motor , bicycle capable of maximum speed of no more 25 miles per hour on flat surface. include e-bikes, meaning must titled , registered. however, mopeds approved motor vehicle services can titled , registered.

when last checked, no e-bikes satisfied requirement, ebikes cannot registered in new jersey. however, nj bill a2581, introduced march 22, 2010, permit use of low-speed electric bicycles upon roadways , bicycle paths in nj, low-speed electric bicycle defined two-wheeled vehicle operable pedals human propulsion , electric motor of less 100 pounds , 750 watts, maximum speed on paved level surface less 20 miles per hour. bill has been referred state s assembly transportation, public works , independent authorities committee.

new york

new york state (nys) includes motor-assisted bicycles within list of vehicles cannot registered. federal agency, consumer product safety commission (cpsc), has exclusive jurisdiction on electric bicycles consumer product regulations.

despite illegal status in state of new york, enforcement of law varies @ local level. new york city enforces bike ban fines , vehicle confiscation throttle activated electric bikes. however, tompkins county supports electric bike usage, providing grant money fund electric bike share/rental projects.

several bills have been sponsored legalize electric bicycles use on nys roads, , several have overwhelmingly passed @ committee level, none of these initiatives has been able heard , passed in new york state senate, until 2015. latest bill s3997, act amend vehicle , traffic law, in relation definition of electric assisted bicycle. clarifying vehicle , traffic law define electric assisted bicycles; establish electric assisted bicycles, defined, bicycles, not motor vehicles; , establish safety , operational criteria use. has passed in senate first time ever in 2015. related assembly bill a233 not brought vote in assembly though had passed little issue in prior years.

the new york bicycle coalition has supported efforts define electric bicycles in new york state, has far been unable win legislative passage. new york city has repeatedly drawn media attention enforcement of ban on electric bicycles in neighborhoods, fines of $3,000.

ohio

the ohio revised code 4511.01 distinguishes motorized bicycles , mopeds motorcycles or scooters describing them ...any vehicle having either 2 tandem wheels or 1 wheel in front , 2 wheels in rear, capable of being pedaled , equipped helper motor of not more fifty cubic centimeters piston displacement produces no more 1 brake horsepower , capable of propelling vehicle @ speed of no greater twenty miles per hour on level surface. 1 brake horsepower converts 0.75 kw, or (rounded) 750w. thus, bicycle electric helper motor operating under 750w, , not propelling bicycle on 20 mph, not qualify registered under ohio state law. local jurisdictions may have other regulations.

oregon

oregon law (ors 801.258]) defines electric assisted bicycle electric motor-driven vehicle equipped operable pedals, seat or saddle rider, no more 3 wheels in contact during travel. in addition, vehicle must equipped electric motor capable of applying power output of no greater 1,000 watts, , incapable of propelling vehicle @ speed greater 20 miles per hour on level ground.

in general, electric bicycles considered bicycles , rather motor vehicles, purposes of code. implies bicycle regulations apply electric bicycles including operation in bike lanes. exceptions include restriction of operation on sidewalks , license or permit required if rider younger 17 years of age.

pennsylvania

state law defines motorized pedalcycle motor-driven cycle equipped operable pedals, motor rated @ no more 1.5 brake horsepower, cylinder capacity not exceeding 50 cubic centimeters, automatic transmission, , maximum design speed of no more 25 miles per hour. subchapter j of publication 45 spells out vehicle requirements in full.

as of 2008 standard class c license, proof of insurance, , registration (annual fee: $9.00) required operation of motorized pedalcycle in pennsylvania. additionally, there strict equipment standards must met operation, including: handlebars, brakes, tires/wheels, electrical systems/lighting, mirrors, speedometer, , horns/warning devices.

the definition written gasoline-powered pedalcycles in mind. requirement of automatic transmission troublesome want add electric-assist motor bicycle, bicycles have transmissions consisting of chains , manually shifted sprockets. registration form asks vin, making difficult register foreign-made ebikes. fine riding unregistered electric bike approximately $160.00 per event of 2007.

on february 4, 2014, sb997 introduced senator matt smith, seeks amend pa vehicle code include pedalcycle electric assist . in memo addressed senate members, smith said definition shall include bicycles equipped electric motor not exceeding 750 watts, weighing not more 100 pounds, capable of maximum speed of not more 20 mph, , have operable pedals.

on october 22, 2014 pa house bill 573 passed law, act 154, changes definition of pedalcycle (bicycle) in pa state vehicle code. pedalcycle defined vehicle propelled solely human-powered pedals or pedalcycle (bicycle) electric assist( vehicle weighing not more 100 pounds 2 or 3 wheels more 11 inches in diameter, manufactured or assembled electric motor rated no more 750 watts , equipped operational pedals , travels @ speeds less 20 mph). bill allows usage of pedal assisted bicycles in pa follow adopted state guidelines.

tennessee

tennessee has not passed legislation defines electric bicycles. state regulate motorized bicycles . however, motorized bicycle under state law defined vehicle 2 (2) or 3 (3) wheels, automatic transmission, , motor cylinder capacity not exceeding fifty cubic centimeters (50cc) produces no more 2 (2) brake horsepower , capable of propelling vehicle @ maximum design speed of no more thirty miles per hour (30 mph) on level ground. if motorized bicycle statute (t.c. 55-8-101) held court not apply electric bicycles, arguably exempt persons on 16 years of age driver s license , mandatory helmet requirements required of operators of motorized bicycles using internal combustion engines.

under tennessee law, motorized bicycle defined not have registered nor certificate of title need obtained. owner may register vehicle under regulations issued commissioner of safety. no endorsement required on driver license in order operate motorized bicycle, motorized bicycle may operated valid driver license. goggles, windshields , other special equipment required motorcycles , motor-driver cycles not required operation of motorized bicycle. however, crash helmets required regardless of operator s age. minors between ages of 14 , 16 may apply restricted license operate motorized bicycle, operate motor-driver cycle. instance, must take written test, vision tests , demonstrate ability operate motorized bicycle. license issued restricted motorized bicycle only. license valid during daylight hours , within seven-mile (11 km) radius of driver s home. applicants type of license less eighteen (18) years old, must complete minor/teen-age affidavit , cancellation form making parent or legal guardian financially liable applicants action.

texas

bicycles , electric bicycles legally defined in texas transportation code title 7, chapter 551 entitled operation of bicycles, mopeds, , play vehicles in subchapter a, b, c, , d. under chapter 541.201 (24), electric bicycle means bicycle (a) designed propelled electric motor, exclusively or in combination application of human power, (b) cannot attain speed of more 20 miles per hour without application of human power, , (c) not exceed weight of 100 pounds. department or local authority may not prohibit use of electric bicycle on highway used motor vehicles. department or local authority may prohibit use of electric bicycle on highway used pedestrians.

medical exemptions standard right in state of texas motorcycles & bicyclists. through texas s motorcycle helmet law (bicycle helmet laws city ordinances), required 21 years old or younger wear helmet. however, medical exemption, written certified licensed medical physician or licensed chiropractor, exempts 1 wearing helmet, can used bicyclists if helmets required.

utah

according utah code <http://publicsafety.utah.gov/dld/documents/motorcyclesandsimilarvehicles9-08.pdf> motor-driven cycle means:

electric assisted bicycle – moped electric motor power output of not more 1,000 watts , not capable of propelling device @ speed of more 20 mph on level ground, or increasing speed of device when human power used.

a driver license required operate motorized bicycle; motorcycle endorsement not.

update – new laws exclude electric pedal-assisted bicycles motorized vehicles , bicycles permitted on state land (but not on indian reservations, nor restrictive municipalities, such in park city code 10-1-4.5 ) if motor not more 750 watts, , assistance shuts off @ 20 mph (utah traffic code 53-3-202-17-a ). e-bikes sold in utah required have sticker details performance capacity. children under 14 can operate electric bicycle if accompanied parent/guardian, children under 8 may not. (utah code 41-6a-1115.5) no license, registration, or insurance required state municipalities may require these measures (salt lake city , provo require registration).

utah traffic code https://le.utah.gov/xcode/title41/chapter6a/41-6a-s102.html?v=c41-6a-s102_2016051020160510 park city, utah municipal code https://parkcity.municipalcodeonline.com/book?type=ordinances#name=10_motor_vehicle

vermont

motor-driven cycle means vehicle equipped 2 or 3 wheels, power source providing maximum of 2 brake horsepower , having maximum piston or rotor displacement of 50 cubic centimeters if combustion engine used, propel vehicle, unassisted, @ speed not exceed 30 miles per hour on level road surface, not require clutching or shifting operator. designation replacement scooter , moped; vermont doesn t seem have laws e-bikes.

operators of motor-driven cycles required have valid driver s license not motorcycle endorsement.

virginia

electric power-assisted bicycle means vehicle travels on not more 3 wheels in contact ground , equipped (i) pedals allow propulsion human power , (ii) electric motor input of no more 1,000 watts reduces pedal effort required of rider. purposes of chapter 8 of title, electric power-assisted bicycle shall vehicle when operated on highway.

every person riding bicycle, electric personal assistive mobility device, electric power-assisted bicycle, moped, or animal or driving animal on highway shall subject provisions of chapter , shall have of rights , duties applicable driver of vehicle, unless context of provision indicates otherwise.

washington

electric-assisted bicycle means bicycle 2 or 3 wheels, saddle, operative pedals human propulsion, , electric motor. electric-assisted bicycle s electric motor must have power output of no more 1 thousand watts, incapable of propelling device @ speed of more twenty miles per hour on level ground, , incapable of further increasing speed of device when human power alone used propel device beyond twenty miles per hour.

electric-assisted vehicles capable of more 20 mph under combined human , electric power may qualify moped if maximum speed no higher 30 mph.

no person may drive either two-wheeled or three-wheeled motorcycle, or motor-driven cycle unless such person has valid driver s license specially endorsed director enable holder drive such vehicles. no driver s license required operation of electric-assisted bicycle if operator @ least sixteen years of age. persons under sixteen years of age may not operate electric-assisted bicycle. persons operating electric-assisted bicycles shall comply laws , regulations related use of bicycle helmets.

electric-assisted bicycles , motorized foot scooters may have access highways of state same extent bicycles. electric-assisted bicycles , motorized foot scooters prohibited on sidewalks statewide. state law allows electric-assist bicycles on multipurpose trail or bicycle lane, allows local jurisdictions restrict or otherwise limit access of electric-assisted bicycles , motorized foot scooters, , state agencies may regulate use of motorized foot scooters on facilities , properties under jurisdiction , control. if facility posted prohibit motor vehicles, use of electric-assist bicycle included in prohibition. mopeds may not operated on bicycle path or trail, bikeway, equestrian trail, or hiking or recreational trail.