Federal, state and local: who decides what
The federal government defines a low-speed electric bicycle for product safety purposes. States decide how e-bikes are treated on roads, whether they need a license, registration or insurance, and what age and helmet rules apply. Cities, counties, parks and land agencies add their own rules for paths and trails.
The three-class system
A majority of states sort e-bikes into Classes 1, 2 and 3 by throttle and top assisted speed. States that use the system usually treat these bikes like bicycles, with no license or registration. Read the class page for the definitions.
Things that commonly vary
- Whether Class 3 bikes are allowed on bike paths and which minimum age applies.
- Helmet rules, which may depend on class or the rider's age.
- Whether a throttle is allowed and under what conditions.
- Where e-bikes may go: roads, bike lanes, multi-use paths, natural-surface trails and parks.
- What happens when a bike is faster or more powerful than the classes allow: it may be treated as a moped or motorcycle.
How to check your own rules
Search for your state's vehicle code on electric bicycles, then your city or county ordinances, then the rules for the specific park or trail. Land agencies post rules on their own sites. When in doubt, call the managing office.