Connecticut E-Bike Laws
Connecticut uses the three-class system (Conn. Gen. Stat. 14-289k, definitions at 14-1): electric bicycles have the same rights and duties as bicycles and may be ridden where bicycles are permitted, but a Class 3 e-bike may never be ridden on a bicycle trail or path or multiuse trail or path, and a Class 1 or Class 2 may not be ridden on a natural-surface nonmotorized trail or path unless a local ordinance permits it; no one under 16 may ride a Class 3 (under-16 passengers are allowed on a Class 3 built to carry them); and every rider and passenger of any electric bicycle must wear approved protective headgear regardless of age.
Connecticut adopted the three-class e-bike system in 2018 (Public Act 18-165, amended by Public Act 19-162; CGS 14-289k, with class definitions in 14-1). E-bike riders have the same rights and duties as bicycle riders, and an e-bike may be ridden where bicycles are permitted, except where prohibited by local ordinance. Two statewide trail restrictions apply: a Class 3 e-bike may never be ridden on a bicycle trail or path or multiuse trail or path (14-289k(c)); and a Class 1 or Class 2 e-bike may not be ridden on a natural-surface nonmotorized trail or path - one whose tread is made by clearing and grading the soil, with no surfacing materials added - unless a local ordinance permits it (14-289k(d)). No person under 16 may ride a Class 3 e-bike, though a person under 16 may sit as a passenger on a Class 3 that is equipped or designed to carry a passenger (14-289k(e)). Every rider and passenger of any electric bicycle, regardless of age, must wear protective headgear conforming to ANSI, CPSC, ASTM or Snell bicycle-helmet standards (14-289k(f)). These operating restrictions do not apply to police officers, firefighters or EMTs performing their duties. No license or registration is required. Electric foot scooters are a separately defined vehicle in Connecticut law (added by Public Act 19-162; defined in CGS 14-1): riders generally have the rights and duties of bicyclists (14-286a), lighting, reflector and brake equipment requirements apply (14-288), and local regulations may apply.