California E-bikes & Scooters

California E-Bike Laws

California created the 3-class e-bike system in 2015 (AB 1096). Class 3 requires helmet. Electric scooters allowed on bike lanes, 15mph max.

California established the national model 3-class e-bike system in 2015 (AB 1096). Class 1: Pedal-assist to 20mph. Class 2: Throttle to 20mph. Class 3: Pedal-assist to 28mph, HELMET REQUIRED all ages. Class 3 prohibited on trails unless locally allowed. E-bikes allowed on roads and bike lanes. Electric scooters (AB 2989, 2018): allowed on bike lanes and roads with 25mph limit, 15mph max speed. Helmet required under 18. Local governments may restrict sidewalk use. Cal. Veh. Code §312.5.

E-Bike Classifications

California: E-bikes classified as Class 1, 2, or 3 based on speed and motor type. Affects where you can ride.

E-BIKE CLASSIFICATION SYSTEM

THREE-CLASS SYSTEM (ADOPTED BY MOST STATES)

Class 1 - Pedal Assist
• Motor assists only when pedaling
• Max assisted speed: 20 mph
• Max motor power: 750W
• Allowed on bike paths and trails

Class 2 - Throttle
• Motor can propel without pedaling
• Max speed: 20 mph
• Max motor power: 750W
• May be restricted on some trails

Class 3 - Speed Pedelec
• Pedal assist only
• Max assisted speed: 28 mph
• Requires speedometer
• Often restricted to roads, bike lanes

WHERE EACH CLASS CAN RIDE

| Location | Class 1 | Class 2 | Class 3 |
|----------|---------|---------|---------|
| Roads | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| Bike lanes | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| Multi-use paths | ✓ | Usually | Often No |
| MTB trails | Check local | Usually No | No |
| Sidewalks | Usually No | Usually No | No |

AGE REQUIREMENTS
• Class 1 & 2: No minimum in most states
• Class 3: Typically 16+ required

HELMET REQUIREMENTS
• Class 3: Helmet required under 18 (some states all ages)
• Class 1 & 2: Often no requirement (but recommended)

REGISTRATION
Most states do not require e-bike registration if classified as bicycle.

Electric Scooter Regulations

California: Electric scooters have speed limits, age requirements, and location restrictions. Check local ordinances.

ELECTRIC SCOOTER LAWS

STATE VS LOCAL LAWS
Many scooter regulations are set locally. Check your city for:
• Where scooters can be ridden
• Speed limits
• Parking requirements
• Rental scooter programs

COMMON REGULATIONS
• Speed limit: 15-20 mph typical
• Age requirement: 16-18 in most areas
• Helmet: Required for minors, recommended for all
• Sidewalks: Often prohibited
• Bike lanes: Usually allowed

WHERE TO RIDE
Usually Allowed:
• Bike lanes
• Roads with speed limits under 25-35 mph
• Multi-use paths (check local rules)

Usually Prohibited:
• Sidewalks
• Highways/freeways
• High-speed roads

SAFETY REQUIREMENTS
• Lights/reflectors at night
• Bell or horn (some areas)
• Brakes in working order

RENTAL SCOOTERS (BIRD, LIME, ETC.)
• Must be 18+ to rent
• Valid driver's license often required
• Park properly (upright, not blocking paths)
• One rider per scooter
• Report issues through app

DUI APPLIES
Operating while intoxicated is illegal on scooters.