Electric Bike Need Register In Ca?

California Legal eBike Classifications Guide

Where tin can I ride my new eBike?

California adopted new laws for legal eBikes in 2015, breaking the bikes down into three classes. The classifications are primarily based on where they are allowed to operate.

AB 1096: Electric Bicycles

This is the law that defines electric bicycles equally those with fully operable pedals and an electric motor of less than 750 watts. It also creates three classes of electrical bicycles based on their motor speed and level of electric assist. Electrical bikes subsequently brutal into classes ane, ii, and 3.

Important note! CA State AB1096 established a default framework – where a local jurisdiction (urban center, county, etc.) had not put any grade of ordinance in place for electrical bikes. A local jurisdiction (urban center, canton, etc.) may enact an ordinance to permit or restrict electric bike usage for their area that may differ from the State default.

Class 1 eBike

A Class i eBike, or depression-speed pedal-assisted electric bicycles, is equipped with a motor that provides aid simply when the rider is pedaling and that stops providing aid when the cycle reaches xx mph. These due east-bikes are legal on any paved surface that a regular bike is allowed to operate.

Class 2 eBike

Course 2 eBikes, or low-speed throttle-assisted electrical wheel, are equipped with motors that can exclusively propel the cycle, but that cannot provide assistance when the wheel reaches twenty mph. These e-bikes are legal on whatsoever paved surface that a regular bicycle is allowed to operate.

Grade three eBike

A Form 3 eBike, or speed pedal-assisted electrical bicycle, is equipped with a motor that provides assistance merely when the rider is pedaling and stops providing assist when the bicycle reaches 28 mph. Operators of Class 3 eastward-bikes must be sixteen or older and wear a helmet. Form 3 e-bikes are prohibited from Class I multi-utilize bike paths unless specifically authorized by a local ordinance.

Beneath is a elementary visual infographic for determining what class your eBike falls into:

california electric bike law

What happens if I modify my eBike?

The neb prohibits tampering with or modifying electrical bicycles to alter their speed capability unless the classification label as well is inverse.

Do I need a license or special registration to operate an eBike?

E-bike operators do not need a driver'south license, registration or license plate to ride them, though they do demand to abide by existing traffic laws.

Further Questions?

Nosotros're hither at the store every day to meet you and discuss anything yous have questions on regarding specific models and legal classifications. Come up see and examination ride the different classes for free to meet which fits y'all and your lifestyle the best!