California E-Bike Laws: Everything You Need to Know in 2025
Happy riding from the Riding 5 team! Whether you just bought your first e-bike or you're considering one as your next purchase, understanding California's e-bike laws will help you ride safely and legally. California has some of the most progressive e-bike regulations in the country, and recent updates in 2025 have clarified the rules even further.
Here's what every rider needs to know.
The Three E-Bike Classes in California
California categorizes e-bikes into three classes based on how fast they go and how the motor works:
Class 1 e-bikes are pedal-assist only. The motor helps you while you're pedaling and stops providing assistance when you reach 20 mph. These are great for bike paths and casual riding.
Class 2 e-bikes have a throttle, so they can move forward even when you're not pedaling. They also max out at 20 mph. These are popular for commuters who want the option to take a break from pedaling.
Class 3 e-bikes are pedal-assist only (no throttle) and can assist you up to 28 mph. These are built for longer commutes and keeping pace with traffic, but they come with more restrictions on where you can ride.
All e-bikes sold in California must have a motor of 750 watts or less and display a label showing the bike's class, top assisted speed, and motor wattage.
Do You Need a License or Registration?
No. Unlike motorcycles or mopeds, e-bikes in California don't require a driver's license, registration, or license plate. You can hop on and ride just like a regular bicycle.
Age Requirements
For Class 1 and Class 2 e-bikes, there's no minimum age under state law. However, for Class 3 e-bikes, riders must be at least 16 years old.
Some local areas have additional restrictions. For example, San Diego County allows cities to prohibit riders under 12 from operating Class 1 or Class 2 e-bikes, and Marin County requires riders to be 16 or older for Class 2 e-bikes.
Always check your local city or county rules before letting younger riders hop on.
Helmet Requirements
Here's the breakdown:
Under 18: Helmets are required on ALL bikes in California, including e-bikes of any class.
18 and older on Class 1 or Class 2: Helmets are not legally required, though we strongly recommend wearing one every time you ride.
Class 3 riders of any age: Helmets are mandatory, no exceptions.
At Riding 5, we carry helmets for riders of all ages because wearing one can reduce head injuries by up to 60%. It's a small investment for serious protection.
Where Can You Ride?
This depends on your e-bike's class:
Roads and bike lanes: All three classes can use California roads, bike lanes, and shoulders where bicycles are permitted. You have the same rights and responsibilities as regular cyclists.
Bike paths and multi-use trails: Class 1 and Class 2 e-bikes are generally allowed on paved bike paths and multi-use trails. Class 3 e-bikes are typically restricted from these paths unless the path runs alongside a road or local rules specifically allow it.
State Parks: Many California State Parks allow Class 1 and Class 2 e-bikes on paved routes and designated trails. Class 3 e-bikes are often limited to paved areas only. Always check posted signs at the park entrance.
National Parks and Federal Lands: E-bikes are generally allowed wherever traditional bicycles are permitted, but policies vary by park.
Sidewalks: Riding on sidewalks is controlled by local city rules. Many cities prohibit it, especially in business districts. When in doubt, walk your bike on the sidewalk.
Some trails ban e-bikes entirely. This is especially true for natural-surface singletrack trails and some protected areas. Always look for posted signs before riding.
Do E-Bikes Need Insurance?
California does not require insurance for e-bikes. However, given that e-bikes can be a significant investment (and accidents do happen), many riders choose to get coverage anyway.
Your homeowners or renters insurance may provide some protection, but policies vary. Specialized e-bike insurance is available from companies like Velosurance, Progressive, and GEICO that can cover theft, damage, and liability.
Worth considering if you ride frequently or have an expensive bike.
What About Modifications?
This is important: California law prohibits modifying an e-bike to exceed its legal speed limits. If you tamper with the motor or software to make your bike go faster than the class allows, it may no longer qualify as an e-bike. That means it could be reclassified as a motor vehicle, which would require registration, insurance, and a license.
Additionally, selling aftermarket kits that alter an e-bike's speed or motor wattage is now illegal under Assembly Bill 1774.
Bottom line: ride your e-bike as it was designed. Modifications aren't worth the legal headaches.
2025 Updates: What's New
Senate Bill 1271, which took effect January 1, 2025, brought several important changes:
Clearer class definitions. Class 1 and Class 3 e-bikes must be pedal-assist only. Bikes with throttles that can propel the bike without pedaling at speeds above 20 mph are now clearly classified as Class 2.
Motor power capped at 750 watts. E-bikes with motors exceeding this limit are not classified as e-bikes under California law.
Battery safety certification required. Starting January 1, 2026, all e-bike batteries must meet safety certification standards (likely UL certification) to reduce fire hazards.
No modification kits. The sale and use of devices that override speed limits or motor wattage is now banned.
These changes are designed to keep riders safer and ensure that what's marketed as an e-bike actually meets the legal definition.
Quick Reference: California E-Bike Rules
License required? No
Registration required? No
Insurance required? No
Helmet required under 18? Yes, on all bikes
Helmet required 18+ on Class 1/2? No (but recommended)
Helmet required on Class 3? Yes, all ages
Minimum age for Class 1/2? None (state law)
Minimum age for Class 3? 16 years old
Max motor power? 750 watts
Max assisted speed? 20 mph (Class 1/2) or 28 mph (Class 3)
Ride Safe, Ride Smart
Understanding the rules is the first step to enjoying your e-bike safely and legally. Whether you're commuting to work, running errands, or exploring local trails, knowing your e-bike class and where you can ride makes the experience better for everyone.
Have questions about which e-bike is right for you? Stop by any of our local stores and our team will help you find the perfect fit. We'll make sure you understand exactly what class your bike is and where you can ride it.
Our Locations: Claremont | Ontario | Brea | Long Beach | Temecula | Riverside
This article is for informational purposes and reflects California law as of 2025. Local rules may vary. Always check your city or county ordinances and posted signs before riding.
