Do You Need a License for an Electric Bike?

Whether or not you need a license for your electric bike in the US depends on where you reside because most states have different laws. However, the majority of the states in the US don't require you to have a license to ride an electric bike because they're still considered regular bicycles.

What are the Classes of Electric Bikes in the US?

You must know about the classes of electric bikes whether or not you reside in a location that requires licenses. You'll hear some of these a lot, and ride rules are usually different for them. There are three major classifications: class 1, class 2, and class 3.

Class 1 Electric Bikes

Class 1 electric bikes are the slowest and are referred to as low-speed electric bikes. They have a motor that helps with pedaling, but they have a top speed of 20mph.

Class 2 Electric Bikes

Class 2 Electric bikes are similar to class 1 e-bike. However, the motor in the case continues to assist you even when the speed is 20mph, sometimes slightly more. Class 2 eBikes also have a throttle-only mode that lets the bicycle ride on itself without you needing to pedal. This type of bicycle can have more challenging roads than class 1.

Class 3 Electric Bikes

Class 3 e-bikes have a motor that also assists you when you pedal. However, they let you reach speeds of up to 28mph, which is when it stops. It's the most unpopular among electric bikes, as most jurisdictions keep you from reaching such speed on the machine. Class 3 e-bikes are also the ones that states usually get strict on when they demand a license due to their speed.

State regulations

State	License	Other Provisions
Alabama	No	Class 3 e-bikes: Riders under 16 are not allowed to operate. Helmet requirement: Helmets are mandatory for all Class 3 e-bike riders. Local authorities may restrict Class 1 and Class 2 e-bikes on specific paths for safety reasons.
Alaska	Yes	Helmets are not required. The minimum age to ride an e-bike is 14. E-bikes are not permitted on sidewalks or bike paths.
Massachusetts	Yes	Age: You must be 16 years of age or older to ride an e-bike. Speed: E-bikes may not travel faster than 25 miles per hour. Helmets: Helmets are required. License: You must have a valid driver's license or learner's permit to ride an e-bike.
Missouri	No	Helmets: All riders must wear helmets. Road Operation: You may ride an e-bike on roads with a speed limit of 30 mph or less (or your bicycle's top speed). You must obey motor vehicle rules, not bicycle rules. Lights: Your e-bike should have a forward-facing white light and a rear-facing red reflector or light.
North Dakota	No	Always wear a helmet, especially if you're under 18 and riding a Class 3 e-bike. Follow traffic rules applicable to regular bicycles, including signaling turns, obeying traffic lights, and riding in the direction of traffic flow.
Wisconsin	No	Riders under 16 are prohibited from operating e-bikes. E-bikes can be used on roads and bike paths but are not allowed on sidewalks. Local governments may restrict the use of motorized e-bikes on bike paths.
New Mexico	No	Riders must be 15 years of age or older to ride an e-bike, and 16 years of age or older to ride a Class 3 e-bike. For nighttime riding, e-bikes must be equipped with white front lights and red rear reflectors. E-bikes are considered mopeds and are subject to the same licensing and insurance requirements as motor vehicles.
Connecticut	Yes	Not available on sidewalks, speed-limited highways, or toll roads. No helmets required. Minimum age for e-bike use is 14 years old.
Colorado	No	Anyone under the age of 16 may not ride a Class 3 e-bike. Anyone under the age of 18 must wear a helmet when riding a Class 3 e-bike.
California	No	Age: Riders must be at least 16 years old. Helmet: All riders must wear a bicycle safety helmet. Street legality: E-bikes that go faster than 28 mph are not street legal and cannot be used on roads, sidewalks, or multi-use paths.
Alabama	No	Riders under 16 are not allowed to operate Class 3 e-bikes. Helmet Requirements: Helmets are mandatory for Class 3 e-bike riders. Local authorities can impose restrictions on Class 1 and Class 2 e-bikes on certain paths.
Arizona	No	Class 1 and 2 e-bikes are allowed on bike paths, but Class 3 e-bikes are not allowed unless local laws allow it.
Delaware	No	No one under the age of sixteen (16) may ride a Class 3 e-bike. All Class 3 e-bike riders and passengers must wear an approved, properly fitted and secured bicycle helmet.
Kentucky	No	No helmet requirement. No minimum age requirement.

This blog provides general information on electric bike laws in the United States. State and local regulations may vary, and the content of this article may not reflect the most current legal requirements. Please consult local laws or a legal expert for specific guidance in your area.

Fiido C11 electric bike

The Fiido C11 electric bike perfectly combines performance and practicality. As a Class 2 e-bike, it features a removable battery with an impressive range of 56 miles, ensuring worry-free long rides. With a robust load capacity of 264 pounds, it accommodates a wide range of needs, while its top speed of 15.5MPH (25km/h) makes city commuting a breeze. The C11 is not only an ideal companion for daily commutes but also a reliable and efficient choice for exploration.