E-bike classes explained
Class 1, 2 and 3 are the three kinds of e-bike most state laws recognise. The class decides where you can ride, how old you must be and whether you need a helmet. 42 states use the system, 3 use part of it and 6 have their own categories. Here is what each class means, how to tell which one you have, and what every state does with them.
The three classes
What Class 1, 2 and 3 mean
Class 1
- Motor works
- Pedal assist only
- Assist stops at
- 20 mph
- Throttle
- None
- Motor
- 750 W or less
Allowed wherever bicycles are, in nearly every state, including most bike paths.
Class 2
- Motor works
- Pedal assist and throttle
- Assist stops at
- 20 mph
- Throttle
- To 20 mph
- Motor
- 750 W or less
Treated like Class 1 almost everywhere. The throttle is what sets it apart.
Class 3
- Motor works
- Pedal assist only
- Assist stops at
- 28 mph
- Throttle
- None in most states
- Motor
- 750 W or less
The one with rules attached: a minimum age (usually 16), a helmet rule in many states and no access to some paths.
All three share the 750 W motor limit and working pedals. What separates them is the throttle and the speed at which the motor stops helping. Nothing stops you pedalling a Class 1 faster than 20 mph downhill; the limit is on the motor, not the bike.
Which class is mine?
How to tell which class an e-bike is
- Look for the sticker. States that use the classes require a label with the class, top assisted speed and motor wattage. It is usually on the seat tube or down tube.
- No sticker? Try the throttle. If the bike moves under motor power without pedalling, it is at least a Class 2.
- Watch where the assist cuts out. Assist that stops at 20 mph means Class 1 (no throttle) or Class 2 (throttle). Assist that keeps going to 28 mph means Class 3.
- Check the motor's rated power. Over 750 W rated (peak figures don't count in most statutes), or assist past 28 mph, and it is not an e-bike in any class. See what it becomes instead.
Many bikes ship with the class set in software, so a bike sold as a Class 2 may unlock to Class 3 in its app. The class you ride in is the one it is set to. Of the 269 e-bikes we list, 9 are sold as Class 1, 56 as Class 2 and 98 as Class 3 or unlockable to it. 41 go past the classes on their own figures, and 65 don't state a class. Each model page shows the class the brand states and the figures behind it.
State by state
Which states use the classes
38 states use the three classes as written
AlabamaArizonaArkansasCaliforniaColoradoConnecticutDelawareFloridaGeorgiaHawaiiIdahoIllinoisIndianaIowaKansasLouisianaMaineMarylandMichiganMississippiMissouriNebraskaNevadaNew HampshireNew MexicoNorth DakotaOhioOklahomaSouth DakotaTennesseeTexasUtahVermontVirginiaWashingtonWest VirginiaWisconsinWyoming
4 use them with a twist
- Minnesota: a further category, "Multiple mode".
- New York: Class 3 assists to 25 mph; Class 3 allows a throttle to 25 mph.
- Oregon: every class has no wattage cap.
- Rhode Island: every class has a motor limit of 1,491 W.
3 use part of the system
- Alaska: Alaska's traffic statutes (AS 28) have no e-bike definition or classes. Only the state parks regulations (11 AAC 12.990) define 'electric bicycle' with Class 1/2/3, and they cap Class 1 at under 500 W. HB 8 (2023), which would have created a statewide e-bike law, was vetoed.
- Massachusetts: State law defines only Class 1 and Class 2 (both 'bicycle or tricycle', 750 W or less, 20 mph). There is NO statutory Class 3. DCR park regulations do define Class 3, but only for use on DCR property.
- North Carolina: Until Nov 30, 2026 NC has a single 'electric assisted bicycle' category (750 W max, motor alone no faster than 20 mph). From Dec 1, 2026, S.L. 2026-46 § 19 rewrites the definition into Class 1/2/3.
6 have their own categories
- District of Columbia: DC does not use Class 1/2/3 or a wattage limit. Its single category, 'motorized bicycle', needs a seat, 2 or 3 wheels at least 16 inches across, working pedals, and a motor that cannot push the bike past 20 mph on level ground. A Class 3 (28 mph) e-bike does not fit. The e-bike rebate law (D.C. Code § 50-921.27) uses the same definition for 'e-bike'.
- Kentucky: Kentucky has no electric-bicycle definition and no Class 1/2/3 system in KRS Chapters 186 or 189 (checked current text, effective 7-15-2026). There is also no wheel-count rule, so e-trikes are treated no differently from 2-wheel e-bikes, but it is legally unclear which category either falls into. Ch. 189 defines 'motor vehicle' as all vehicles except those 'propelled by muscular power' and 'electric low-speed scooters', so a motor-assisted bike is not expressly exempt. The possible categories are 'moped' (a 'motorized bicycle' of 2 bhp or less, max 30 mph, KRS 186.010(5)/189.285(6)(b); written with gas engines in mind) or 'electric low-speed scooter' (KRS 189.010(26): under 100 lb, handlebars, 'designed to be stood or sat upon', electric motor and/or human power, max 20 mph).
- Montana: Montana has no Class 1/2/3 system. Its only e-bike term, 'electrically assisted bicycle', covers two-wheelers whose motor can reach no more than 20 mph (no wattage cap). A pedal e-trike instead fits the 'moped' definition (two or three wheels, pedals, up to 2 brake horsepower, max 30 mph).
- New Jersey: P.L.2025, c.285 (approved Jan 19, 2026) repealed NJ's Class 1/Class 2 low-speed e-bike scheme. NJ now has three categories: low-speed electric bicycle (2 wheels, pedal-assist only, cuts off at 20 mph, no wattage figure), motorized bicycle (throttle up to 15 mph, or pedal-assist 21-28 mph, or throttle above 15 up to 28 mph, or <50cc/1.5 bhp helper motor), and electric motorized bicycle (2 wheels, >750 W and >28 mph = treated as a motorcycle).
- Pennsylvania: Pennsylvania has one category, 'pedalcycle with electric assist': up to 100 lb, 2 or 3 wheels over 11 inches, motor up to 750 W, operable pedals, 20 mph max on motor power alone. Throttles are not banned, but the motor-only speed cap is 20 mph. The term excludes devices specifically designed for persons with disabilities.
- South Carolina: South Carolina has no Class 1/2/3 system. It has one category, the 'electric-assist bicycle' (also called 'bicycle with helper motor'): pedals, a motor of no more than 750 W (1 hp), a top motor-powered speed under 20 mph, and a motor that must stop when the rider brakes or stops pedaling. That last condition in effect rules out throttle-only riding. The DNR regulation calls these 'Class 1 e-bikes'.
Above the classes
What a bike becomes past 28 mph or 750 W
Once a bike's motor is over 750 W, or its assist runs past 28 mph, no state counts it as an e-bike. What it counts as instead, and what that demands of the rider, is set by each state. This is the table to read before buying anything sold as "off-road only" or with a 1,000 W motor.
| State | Treated as | Which means |
|---|---|---|
| Alabama | motor-driven cycle (motorcycle up to 5 bhp)The statute says 'less than 750 watts' (max_w recorded as 749). A self-propelled vehicle that isn't an 'electric bicycle' is a motor vehicle, and one with a seat on no more than 3 wheels is a 'motorcycle'. If it has 5 bhp or less and weighs under 200 lb, or is 'any bicycle with a motor attached', it is a 'motor-driven cycle'. That needs a Class M license (a restricted Class M is available from age 14 after a knowledge test or safety course), a DOT helmet and shoes for every rider, and the usual motor-vehicle registration and insurance. On the literal text, a 3-wheel e-trike could fall here. | Class M license (motor-driven cycle restriction, age 14+)helmetregistrationinsurance |
| Alaska | motor vehicle / possibly motor-driven cycleAlaska has no statewide e-bike exemption. Under AS 28.90.990 a 'motor vehicle' is any self-propelled vehicle except one moved by human or animal power, and a 'bicycle' in the traffic regulations is 'propelled exclusively by human power', so on paper any motorized bike or trike, including one that meets the classes, is a motor vehicle. The 'motor-driven cycle' definition refers to engines of 50 cc or less, which does not fit electric motors well. How the DMV applies licensing and registration to e-bikes was not confirmed from a primary source. | driver's license (unclear for e-bikes; see notes) |
| Arizona | motor driven cycle (5 hp or less) or motorcycle; a 'moped' in Arizona is a bicycle with a helper motor of 1.5 bhp or less and 25 mph top speedADOT: 'You can operate a moped with any class of Arizona driver license', but mopeds 'must still be registered with MVD and have liability insurance.' Motor driven cycles and motorcycles need a Class M license. Arizona's moped, motorcycle and motor-driven-cycle definitions all expressly exclude a legal 'electric bicycle'. | license (any class for a moped; M endorsement for a motor driven cycle or motorcycle)registrationinsurancetitle |
| Arkansas | motorized bicycle or motor-driven cycle (unclear for electric motors)Act 956 excludes electric bicycles from 'motorized bicycle'. A bike or trike outside the classes loses that exclusion. Arkansas's motorized bicycle (50 cc or less) and motor-driven cycle (250 cc or less, no more than three wheels) definitions are written for gas engines, so how an over-limit electric bike is classified is unclear. The license and registration duties for those categories were not checked against the statute. | driver's license or motorized bicycle certificate (unconfirmed)registration (unconfirmed) |
| California | motorized bicycle / moped (if it goes no faster than 30 mph and has under 4 gross brake horsepower); otherwise a motor-driven cycle or motorcycleMoped definition: 'a two-wheeled or three-wheeled device having fully operative pedals ... and a motor that produces less than 4 gross brake horsepower and is capable of propelling the device at a maximum speed of not more than 30 miles per hour.' DMV says no insurance is needed to register a moped, and mopeds have no annual renewal. Anything faster or more powerful is a motor-driven cycle or motorcycle, which needs full registration, insurance and an M1 license. § 312.5(d) says a modified or 'modifiable' e-bike is not an e-bike. | license (M1 or M2)registration (one-time DMV moped plate and ID card)helmetminimum age 16 |
| Colorado | low-power scooter (electric up to 4,476 W, up to three wheels) or motorcycle/motor vehicle above thatA vehicle that does not meet the e-bike definition is not exempt. An electric vehicle designed mainly for roadways with up to 3 wheels, no manual clutch and up to 4,476 W is a 'low-power scooter': the operator needs a driver's license, it must be registered ($5 fee), and it may not be ridden on interstates. Larger ones fall under motorcycle/motor vehicle rules. Insurance for low-power scooters was not confirmed. | driver's license or minor driver's licenseregistrationhelmet under 18 (low-power scooter)for a motorcycle: motorcycle endorsement, title, registration, insurance |
| Connecticut | motor-driven cycle (up to 3,700 W) or motorcycleSince Oct 1, 2025 (PA 25-159 s.39), a 'motor-driven cycle' includes a motorcycle, motor scooter or bicycle with attached motor with seat height of at least 26 inches and an electric motor of 3,700 W or less. It needs a valid driver's license (a special permit is available for some disabled riders), may not use sidewalks, limited-access highways or turnpikes, and does not need registration. Helmet for riders under 18. Above 3,700 W it is a motorcycle: registration, insurance and motorcycle endorsement. PA 26-24 (eff. Oct 1, 2026) drops the alternative 5-brake-horsepower test and keeps 50cc / 3,700 W. | driver's license |
| Delaware | triped (3 wheels, 751-2,000 W electric motor); moped is the 2-wheel equivalent; above 2,000 W a 3-wheeler is a motorcycleA 3-wheel cycle with an electric motor 'rated between 751 watts and 2,000 watts' is a 'triped'. Tripeds need a valid driver's license, DMV registration, title and plate, but NOT motor-vehicle insurance; they are barred from interstates/limited-access highways and from bike-only paths unless the motor is off. The statute does not clearly say what a 3-wheeler of 750 W or less that goes faster than 20 mph on throttle (or 28 mph assisted) is: the 'moped' definition covers only 2 tandem wheels, so it may fall under 'motorcycle' (any motor vehicle on not more than 3 wheels). Over 2,000 W it is a motorcycle (full motor-vehicle rules). | driver's license (any class; no motorcycle endorsement)registration ($5 per 3 years)titlelicense platehelmet if under 18 |
| District of Columbia | motor vehicle (moped / motor-driven cycle under 18 DCMR § 9901.1)Anything that can go faster than 20 mph on the motor, or has wheels under 16 inches, is not a 'motorized bicycle' and so is not excluded from 'motor vehicle'; it falls under DC's general motor-vehicle registration, licensing and insurance rules (the exact moped / motor-driven cycle definitions are in 18 DCMR § 9901.1, which could not be retrieved). | driver's licenseregistrationtitleinsurancelicense plate |
| Florida | moped (if motor ≤2 brake hp and ≤30 mph); otherwise motorcycleMoped: registration required, no title required (FLHSMV). Moped definition covers up to three wheels. Anything faster/more powerful is a motorcycle (motor vehicle rules: title, registration, license endorsement). | driver license (Class E or motorcycle-only), age 16+registrationhelmet if under 16 |
| Georgia | moped (≤2 brake hp, ≤30 mph, two or three wheels) or motorcycleGeorgia's moped definition covers two or three wheels. Per Georgia DPS: moped - no registration, no proof of insurance, license or permit required, must be 15+; motorcycle - registration, Class M license and insurance required. | driver license or permit (moped); Class M license (motorcycle)helmet (moped/motorcycle)registration and insurance (motorcycle; per DPS, mopeds are not registered) |
| Hawaii | high-speed electric device (over 750 W and capable of over 28 mph); otherwise likely moped (up to 1,492 W / 30 mph)Act 259 created 'high-speed electric device' = any device with a motor over 750 W AND capable of more than 28 mph; it may not be operated on public roadways, bike lanes, paths, sidewalks or other public areas, and police may seize non-road-legal or nonconforming e-bikes and high-speed devices (HRS 249-15 as amended). A registered moped or motor vehicle is excluded. A machine over 750 W that is not that fast is not an 'electric bicycle' and would most likely be a moped (2 or 3 wheels, 2 hp/1,492 W or less, 30 mph or less), which needs a plate/annual registration (HRS 249-14.1) and a driver's license (HRS 286-102); Act 259 also bars mopeds and 'electric motorcycles' from bike lanes and paths. | cannot be ridden on any public road, bike lane, path or sidewalk unless registered as a moped/motor vehiclemoped: registration and license platemoped: driver's license |
| Idaho | motor vehicle — moped, motor-driven cycle or motorcycle depending on designOnly electric-assisted bicycles are excluded from 'motor vehicle' (49-123). A pedal machine with a 750 W+ motor or assistance above 28 mph is not an e-bike, so the motor-vehicle rules (license 49-301, registration ch. 4, liability insurance 49-1229) apply; a 'moped' in Idaho must have wheels under 20 inches and (if electric) no pedals, and a 'motor-driven cycle' must meet federal motor vehicle safety standards and be titled with a motorcycle endorsement, so many over-powered e-bikes fit no category cleanly and may not be street-legal at all. H 880 (2026), which would have spelled this out (750 W+, 30 mph+ or no pedals = must be licensed, registered and insured), died in committee. | driver's licenseregistrationinsurancetitle and motorcycle endorsement (motor-driven cycle/motorcycle) |
| Illinois | motor driven cycleStatute says 'electric motor of less than 750 watts' (max_w recorded as 749). From Jan 1, 2027 (P.A. 104-0854) any e-bike that is not a low-speed e-bike, or with a 750-8,000 W motor, is expressly a 'motor driven cycle': needs a driver's license, title/registration, insurance, speedometer and VIN, and is barred from sidewalks, bike lanes, bike paths and shared-use paths. Before 2027 such bikes already fell outside the e-bike exemption (motor vehicle/motor driven cycle rules) but the law was less explicit. | driver's licensetitle (if bought new on/after 1-1-2027)registrationinsurance |
| Indiana | motor vehicle (typically a motorcycle; the 'motor driven cycle' category is defined by 50 cc engine size)A bike over 750 W or not meeting a class is not an 'electric bicycle', so it loses the exemptions in IC 9-21-11-13.1 and is a self-propelled motor vehicle. The motorcycle definition covers vehicles on up to three wheels meeting federal equipment standards; how a non-compliant high-power e-bike is classified in practice was not confirmed. | driver's license with motorcycle endorsementtitleregistrationinsurance |
| Iowa | motorized bicycle (moped); motorcycle if faster than 39 mphA seated vehicle on 3 or fewer wheels that is not a low-speed e-bike and can't exceed 39 mph unassisted is a 'motorized bicycle', a motor vehicle. It needs registration ($7/year) and plate, a driver's license (a motorized-bicycle-only license is available at 14+, with a course if under 16), and proof of financial liability coverage; no passengers allowed. Faster machines are motorcycles. | driver's license (any class, or a motorized-bicycle license from age 14)registrationlicense platefinancial liability coverage (insurance) |
| Kansas | motorized bicycle (up to 3.5 bhp and 30 mph, two or three wheels) or motorcycleA trike that doesn't meet 8-1489 (750 W or more, or assists above 20/28 mph) is not an e-bike. If its motor is 3.5 brake horsepower or less with an automatic transmission and top design speed of 30 mph or less, it is a 'motorized bicycle' (the definition expressly covers 'two tandem wheels or three wheels'): the rider needs a driver's license or a motorized-bicycle-only class C license (age 15+, written and vision test), and riders under 18 need a DOT-standard helmet. Anything faster or stronger on up to three wheels is a motorcycle, which needs a class M license, registration and insurance. | driver's license (any class, or a motorized-bicycle-only class C license at 15+)helmet under 18registration (unconfirmed) |
| Kentucky | moped (motorized bicycle) or motorcycleBecause Kentucky has no e-bike classes, no vehicle is 'outside' them. A motorized bicycle of 2 bhp (~1,490 W) or less that can't exceed 30 mph fits the 'moped' definition: it needs an operator's license (KRS 186.410(1)), is excluded from 'motor vehicle' for registration purposes (KRS 186.010(4)), and has no helmet requirement (the helmet rule in KRS 189.285(3) covers motorcycles only). Anything faster is a motorcycle (up to 3 wheels): it needs a motorcycle license and registration, and riders under 21 or with a permit or a license held less than 1 year must wear a helmet. | operator's license (moped)full motorcycle license, registration and insurance (motorcycle) |
| Louisiana | motorized bicycle (up to 1.5 bhp / 25 mph), or motor-driven cycle / motorcycleA pedal bike that doesn't meet an e-bike class is not an 'electric-assisted bicycle'. A 'motorized bicycle' (pedal bicycle with a helper motor of no more than 1.5 brake horsepower, max 25 mph) may be ridden only on roadways by someone 15 or older with a valid driver's license, never on sidewalks or interstates, and the rider must wear a motorcycle-type safety helmet. Anything more powerful on up to 3 wheels is a motor-driven cycle (up to 5 hp) or motorcycle, which carries only one rider (motor-driven cycle) and requires the usual motor-vehicle license, registration and insurance. | driver's licenseage 15+ (motorized bicycle)helmetregistration/insurance (motorcycle; unconfirmed for motorized bicycle) |
| Maine | moped (electric motor under 1,500 W, 2 or 3 wheels 10 in.+) or motorcycle (1,500 W or more); possibly 'motorized tricycle'An e-trike with 750-1,499 W is a 'moped' (2 or 3 wheels of 10 in. or more): needs a valid license of any class or a moped/motorcycle endorsement, may not use interstates, and as a motor vehicle is subject to registration and financial-responsibility rules; helmets required for moped operators/passengers under 18 and learner-permit riders. 1,500 W or more is a 'motorcycle'. If modified past 20 mph (throttle) or 28 mph (pedal assist) it 'is no longer an electric bicycle'. Maine also has a 'motorized bicycle or tricycle' category (up to 1.5 bhp, 25 mph) treated as a bicycle under § 2063 with a 20 mph speed cap; how it overlaps with 'moped' for an electric trike is unclear. | driver's license (any class) or moped/motorcycle endorsementregistrationinsurance (as a motor vehicle)helmet under 18 / new riders |
| Maryland | moped (pedal bike with motor of 1.5 brake horsepower or less); anything more powerful or faster is a motor vehicle/motorcycleA pedal-equipped 2- or 3-wheeler with a motor over 750 W but no more than 1.5 bhp (about 1,119 W) is a 'moped' (§ 11-134.1). Moped riders must carry a driver's license (any class) or a moped operator's permit (§ 16-101(b)); mopeds are not exempt from titling (§ 13-102(7)); riders must carry proof of insurance (§ 17-104.1). Mopeds may not be ridden on sidewalks (§ 21-1103(b)(1)). Whether mopeds must also be registered/plated was not confirmed from statute text. | driver's license or moped operator's permittitleinsurance (carry proof) |
| Massachusetts | motorized bicycle (moped) or motor vehicle/motorcycle - statute unclear for electricA 28-mph Class 3 or over-750 W e-bike is not an 'electric bicycle' under state law. The 'motorized bicycle' definition (max 30 mph, 50 cc, automatic transmission) is written for gas engines, so how an electric Class 3 is classified is not settled in statute. If it is a motorized bicycle, you must be 16+ with a license or permit, wear a helmet, not exceed 25 mph, stay off off-street recreational bike paths (bike lanes are OK), and register it with the RMV. | driver's license or learner's permitregistration (plate + decal)helmet (all ages)age 16+ |
| Michigan | moped (up to 30 mph) or motorcycleA device whose motor exceeds 750 W or has been modified out of class is not an e-bike. A 2- or 3-wheel vehicle that can't exceed 30 mph and needs no gear shifting is a 'moped': it needs a moped license or regular license, registration (no title), and a helmet for riders under 19. Faster vehicles are motorcycles and need a motorcycle endorsement. The DNR calls these 'e-motos' and bans them from nonmotorized trails. | license (operator's license or moped license, 15+)registrationhelmet under 19 (moped) |
| Minnesota | motorized bicycle (up to 2 bhp / 30 mph) or motorcycleA vehicle that exceeds 750 W or is built or sold to be modified out of class is not an e-bike. A 'motorized bicycle' (electric or gas, up to 2 brake horsepower, max 30 mph) needs a driver's license or motorized-bicycle permit, and riders under 18 need a helmet. It may not be ridden on sidewalks or on bike paths or lanes reserved for nonmotorized traffic, and may not carry passengers (with limited exceptions). Anything faster or stronger on up to 3 wheels is a motorcycle. | driver's license or motorized bicycle permitregistrationhelmet under 18 |
| Mississippi | motor vehicle (likely motorcycle)A self-propelled bike or trike outside the e-bike definition is not excluded from 'motor vehicle'. Mississippi defines 'motorcycle' as a motor vehicle with a saddle on no more than three wheels, so it would likely be treated as a motorcycle. The exact license, registration, title and insurance steps for such a vehicle were not checked section by section. | driver's license (motorcycle endorsement likely)registrationinsurancetitle (likely) |
| Missouri | motorized bicycle (up to 30 mph) or motor vehicle/motortricycleThe statute says 'less than 750 watts' (max_w recorded as 749). A bike outside the classes loses the e-bike exemption. A 'motorized bicycle' is a 2- or 3-wheel device with an automatic transmission, under 3 gross brake horsepower and no faster than 30 mph; the definition is written in gas-engine terms (50 cc), so how it applies to a strong electric motor is not spelled out. Riding one needs a valid driver's license, and it may not be ridden on interstates. Anything faster is a motor vehicle (e.g., a motortricycle) with full license, registration and insurance duties. | driver's license (motorized bicycle)no interstate highways (motorized bicycle) |
| Montana | motor-driven cycle / motorcycleAn e-trike with pedals, 2 brake horsepower (about 1,491 W) or less, and a top power-only speed of 30 mph or less is a 'moped', which Montana excludes from 'motor vehicle', so no license, registration or insurance duty was found for it. Above 2 bhp or 30 mph it falls outside the moped definition and is a motorcycle / motor-driven cycle (a motorcycle may have up to three wheels), which is a motor vehicle and needs the usual license, registration and insurance. The license/registration consequences for that category were not separately verified here. | driver's license (motorcycle endorsement)registrationtitleinsurance |
| Nebraska | motor-driven cycle (a type of motorcycle)'Motor-driven cycle' covers 'every bicycle with a motor attached except for an electric bicycle', so a pedal e-trike over 750 W or above the class speeds is treated as a motorcycle-type motor vehicle (a motorcycle may have up to three wheels). Nebraska's 'moped' category (exempt from registration, title and insurance but needing an operator's license) is defined by a 50 cc engine, so it is unclear whether it fits electric vehicles. The exact license/registration requirements for this category were not separately verified. | Class M licenseregistrationtitleinsurance |
| Nevada | moped (up to 1,500 W and 30 mph); otherwise motorcycleA 3-wheel-or-fewer vehicle with a motor producing not more than 1,500 watts and a top speed of 30 mph or less that isn't an e-bike is a 'moped'. Mopeds are motor vehicles: they must be registered with the DMV and get a plate, need insurance and a driver's license, and the rider and passenger must wear a helmet. Faster/more powerful machines are motorcycles. | driver's licenseregistrationlicense plateinsurancehelmet |
| New Hampshire | moped (top speed 30 mph or less) or motorcycle (faster; 'not more than 3 wheels')A 3-wheeler that is not an 'electric bicycle' (750 W or more, or assists past 20/28 mph) loses the e-bike exemptions. If it can't exceed 30 mph it is a 'moped' (RSA 259:57): needs a driver's license or moped license (RSA 263:33) and registration/plate (RSA 261:40, 261:80); mopeds are excluded from the financial-responsibility (insurance) law (RSA 259:60, III). Faster machines are 'motorcycles' (RSA 259:63, up to 3 wheels) needing a motorcycle license, registration and title rules for motorcycles. New Hampshire has no general compulsory auto insurance law. | driver's license (moped: any valid driver's license or moped restricted license; motorcycle: motorcycle license)registration and number plate |
| New Jersey | electric motorized bicycle / motorcycleA 2-wheel e-bike over 750 W and over 28 mph is an 'electric motorized bicycle', which the amended 39:1-1 lists inside the definition of 'motorcycle'. MVC's reference guide lists it with 'Electric Motorized Bike & Trike' needing a motorcycle permit/license, age 17+, title, registration, insurance and motorcycle plate. Online sale of electric motorized bicycles is banned for one year after enactment (s.12). Note: the 39:1-1 'motorcycle' definition also covers 'all motor-operated vehicles of the bicycle or tricycle type' except low-speed e-bikes and motorized bicycles, so a high-powered e-trike would likely be a motorcycle. | motorcycle license or endorsementregistrationinsurancetitlehelmet |
| New Mexico | electric mobility device (a motor vehicle)A two- or three-wheel electric vehicle that doesn't meet the e-bike definition and can exceed 20 mph on motor power alone is an 'electric mobility device', which the Motor Vehicle Code expressly counts as a 'motor vehicle', so the normal license, registration/title and mandatory insurance rules apply. The 'moped' category (exempt from registration) is defined by a piston engine under 50 cc, so it does not fit electric trikes. An over-750 W trike limited to 20 mph fits neither category cleanly. | driver's licenseregistrationtitleinsurance |
| New York | limited use motorcycle (moped) Class A/B/C, or motorcycleA device at 750 W or more, wider than 36 inches, or faster than the class limits is not a bicycle with electric assist and 'does not qualify for registration' as one. It must meet moped (limited use motorcycle) equipment standards to be registered: Class C (20 mph or less), Class B (over 20-30 mph), Class A (over 30-40 mph). All classes need registration and a driver license (Class A needs M/MJ); insurance required for A and B, recommended for C. No title. Since Jan 7, 2025 dealers must register mopeds at sale. Unregistrable devices cannot legally be ridden on public roads. | licenseregistrationinsurance (Class A and B) |
| North Carolina | moped (up to 30 mph) or motorcycleA 2- or 3-wheeler that is not an electric assisted bicycle and cannot exceed 30 mph (motor may be electric) is a 'moped': it must be registered with a plate (no title needed) (§ 20-53.4), riders must be 16+ (§ 20-10.1) and wear an FMVSS 218 motorcycle helmet (§ 20-140.4). Faster vehicles are motorcycles. Insurance for mopeds follows from the financial-responsibility rules for registered vehicles (not quoted here). | registration and plate (moped)liability insurance (moped)age 16+ (moped)DOT-approved helmet (moped)driver's license with motorcycle endorsement (motorcycle) |
| North Dakota | motorized bicycle (up to 2 bhp, 30 mph, 32 in. wide) or motorcycleA motorized bicycle has two or three wheels, pedals or footrests, up to 2 brake horsepower, a top speed of 30 mph and a width of no more than 32 inches; it is a 'motor vehicle' for registration, title and licensing. A wider or more powerful e-trike would be a motorcycle (Class M license, registration, insurance). Whether insurance is required for a motorized bicycle was not confirmed. | operator's license or motorized bicycle permit (age 14+)registrationtitle |
| Ohio | motorcycle (motor-driven cycle), or possibly motorized bicycle/mopedStatute says 'less than seven hundred fifty watts' (max_w recorded as 749). A bike outside the classes isn't an 'electric bicycle', so it loses the motor-vehicle exemption. A 'motorized bicycle/moped' is limited to 1 brake horsepower (~746 W) and 20 mph and needs a moped license or probationary license (age 14+), a helmet and mirror under 18, and no passengers. Anything stronger is a 'motorcycle', which includes motor-driven cycles on up to three wheels and needs the full motorcycle license, registration and insurance. | licenseregistrationtitleinsurance |
| Oklahoma | moped (up to 750 W / 35 mph), motor-driven cycle (under 1,000 W) or motorcycle (1,000 W+)A vehicle outside the classes loses the e-bike exemption. An electric 'moped' (up to 750 W and 35 mph) may use streets only where the city or county has adopted an ordinance allowing mopeds. An electric vehicle with a seat and up to 3 wheels and under 1,000 W is a 'motor-driven cycle', and at 1,000 W or more a 'motorcycle'. Both require a driver's license with a motorcycle endorsement, and riders under 18 on a motorcycle must wear a DOT helmet. Registration and insurance follow from motor-vehicle status (not separately verified). | license (motorcycle endorsement for motor-driven cycle/motorcycle)registrationinsurancehelmet under 18 (motorcycle) |
| Oregon | moped (no more than 3 wheels, top speed 30 mph or less, automatic drive); faster vehicles are motorcyclesODOT guide: a moped 'requires registration and insurance to operate on public roadways' and 'requires a driver license to operate (but not a motorcycle endorsement)'. A motorcycle helmet is required, and a moped may use a bike lane only under human power. Anything over 30 mph is a motorcycle and needs a motorcycle endorsement. | license (driver license; no motorcycle endorsement for a moped)registrationtitleinsurancemotorcycle helmet |
| Pennsylvania | motorized pedalcycle (moped) or motor-driven cycle/motorcycleA pedal vehicle over the limits (e.g., over 20 mph on motor, over 750 W, or over 100 lb) may qualify as a 'motorized pedalcycle' (moped): operable pedals, automatic transmission, electric or up to 50cc/1.5 bhp motor, max design speed 25 mph. It needs a Class C driver's license, registration (moped plate) and insurance; no helmet; not on limited-access highways; age 16+; no title. Faster ones are motor-driven cycles/motorcycles: Class M license (or C for 50cc automatics), registration, insurance, inspection, helmet under 21. Devices not defined in the Vehicle Code may not legally be operated on highways, sidewalks or bike lanes. | licenseregistrationinsurance |
| Rhode Island | motorized tricycle (any 3-wheel motor-assisted cycle up to 1.5 bhp and 30 mph); motorized bicycle / motor-driven cycle for 2-wheelersBecause the e-bike definition is two-wheel only, a motor-assisted tricycle falls under 'motorized tricycle' (up to 1.5 brake horsepower, about 1,119 W, and 30 mph). It is not excluded from 'motor vehicle', must be registered even if used only on private property, and needs a valid operator's license and a rider aged 16+. It may not be used on interstates. A two-wheeler over the e-bike limits is a 'motorized bicycle' or 'motor-driven cycle', which also needs a license and registration. | driver's licenseage 16+registrationinsurance (as a registered motor vehicle; not separately confirmed)no interstate highways |
| South Carolina | moped (751-1,500 W, up to 3 wheels); above that, motorcycleAn electric cycle on no more than three wheels with a motor over 750 W and no more than 1,500 W is a 'moped' and a motor vehicle. It needs a driver's license or a moped operator's license (15+, daylight only under 16 unless supervised) and state registration with a plate. Title is optional and SCDMV says insurance is not required. SC's helmet law for riders under 21 covers 'two-wheeled' motorized vehicles, so it is unclear whether it reaches a three-wheel moped. SC also treats a bike that exceeds the e-bike limits (e.g., 20+ mph motor speed or throttle-only) as outside the e-bike definition; which category such a bike falls in when it is 750 W or less is not spelled out. | driver's license or moped license (age 15+)registration and platehelmet under 21 (two-wheeled) |
| South Dakota | moped or motorcycleA 'moped' is a motor-driven cycle with two or three wheels and 'motorcycle' includes 'bicycles with a motor attached' and 'motor-operated vehicles of the bicycle or tricycle type'; both exclude electric bicycles. So an e-trike over 750 W (or faster than the class limits) falls into moped/motorcycle rules. Moped riders need a valid driver license or permit (32-20-2); motorcycles need a license with motorcycle certification. As motor vehicles they are subject to registration/title (ch. 32-3, 32-5) and financial responsibility; the registration/insurance specifics for mopeds were not separately verified. | driver's license or permitregistrationtitleinsurance |
| Tennessee | motorized bicycle (up to 30 mph) or motorcycleA device that does not meet the e-bike definition gets no e-bike exemption. A 2- or 3-wheeler capable of no more than 30 mph with an automatic transmission and no more than 2 bhp is a 'motorized bicycle', whose operator must hold a valid driver license; faster vehicles are motorcycles. Statute text for motorized bicycles was read from a secondary mirror (Justia), not the official Lexis code. | driver licenseregistration (likely; see unconfirmed)insurance/financial responsibility (likely) |
| Texas | motor vehicle: moped (≤5 bhp, ≤30 mph, ≤3 wheels) or motorcycleOnly e-bikes and EPAMDs are excluded from 'motor vehicle'; an over-750 W or over-28 mph machine is a moped or motorcycle and gets normal motor-vehicle licensing, registration and insurance rules. | driver license (Class M)registrationtitleinsurance |
| Utah | electric motorcycle (over 750 W, or over 20 mph on motor alone) or 'high power electric device' (e.g., an e-bike modified for more speed/power)An e-bike that exceeds 750 W, reaches 20 mph or more on motor power alone, has foot pegs, or has a throttle mode over 20 mph is not an 'electric assisted bicycle'. Above 750 W or over 20 mph on motor alone it is an 'electric motorcycle' (a motorcycle). From May 6, 2026 (HB 381), a tampered/modified e-bike or other non-titled device able to exceed 20 mph on motor alone is a 'high power electric device': the rider follows motorcycle rules, must be 16+, may not use freeways, and must wear a helmet under 21; liability insurance is not required if it has no VIN and is not a motorcycle. | driver's license with motorcycle endorsement (electric motorcycle)registration and title (electric motorcycle)insurance (not required for a high power electric device with no VIN that is not a motorcycle)helmet under 21age 16+no freeways (high power electric device) |
| Vermont | motor-assisted bicycle (up to 1,000 W and 20 mph); otherwise motor-driven cycleAn electric 'bicycle or tricycle' with pedals, a motor of not more than 1,000 W and a top motor speed of not more than 20 mph that does not meet one of the three classes is a 'motor-assisted bicycle': it is governed as a bicycle, exempt from registration, inspection and operator's license, but riders must be 16+ on highways and may not use sidewalks. Anything faster (up to 30 mph, up to 2 brake horsepower) is a 'motor-driven cycle', which is a motor vehicle and subject to motor vehicle registration, licensing and insurance rules. | age 16+ on highways (motor-assisted bicycle)no sidewalk riding (motor-assisted bicycle)motor-driven cycle: registration, driver's license, insurance (as a motor vehicle) |
| Virginia | moped (≤3 wheels, seat ≥24 in, ≤50 cc or ≤1,500 W, max 35 mph); faster than 35 mph = motorcyclePer Virginia DMV, mopeds need title and registration but no insurance, inspection or driver license (photo ID required); they may not use interstates. Anything over 35 mph is a motorcycle, which needs a motorcycle license, title, registration and insurance. | titleregistrationgovernment-issued photo ID (no driver license needed), age 16+helmet |
| Washington | moped (3 or fewer wheels, pedals, no more than 2 brake hp, top speed 30 mph or less) or motorcycleMopeds are exempt from the mandatory liability insurance law (RCW 46.30.020(1)(b)); motorcycles are not. Mopeds may not use bike paths, trails or sidewalks (RCW 46.61.710). ESSB 6110 notes that the existing motorcycle and moped definitions 'apply to many of the vehicles excluded' from the e-bike definition. A DOL work group is drafting a separate e-motorcycle framework (interim report due Dec 15, 2026). | license (any valid driver's license, age 16+, for a moped; motorcycle endorsement for a motorcycle)registration (moped registration number and permit)motorcycle helmet |
| West Virginia | moped (up to 2 hp and 30 mph) or motorcycle/motor-driven cycleAn e-bike modified past the class limits 'is no longer an electric bicycle' (17C-11-8(c)). A 'moped' is a 2- or 3-wheeled pedal vehicle with up to 2 brake horsepower (about 1,490 W) and top speed not over 30 mph; above that it is a motorcycle/motor-driven cycle. Mopeds and motorcycles are 'motorcycles' (motor vehicles) under ch. 17A and subject to registration and title (17A-3-2); motorcycles need a motorcycle endorsement and helmet (17B-2-7b, 17C-15-44). The exact license class needed for a moped was not verified. | driver's licenseregistrationtitleinsurance |
| Wisconsin | moped (or motor bicycle / motorcycle, depending on design and speed)An electric bicycle-type vehicle with pedals that does not meet the e-bike definition (e.g. over 750 W) and tops out at 30 mph or less is a 'moped' (a motor vehicle): it needs a valid driver's license, registration/plates and liability insurance. Faster than 30 mph it is generally a motorcycle (Class M license). | driver's licenseregistrationinsurancelicense plate |
| Wyoming | moped (up to 2 hp and 30 mph) or motorcycle/motor-driven cycleA 'moped' has 2 or 3 wheels, pedals, and a motor of no more than 2 brake horsepower (about 1,490 W) with top speed of 30 mph; above that it is a motorcycle or motor-driven cycle. Mopeds are exempt from registration (31-2-224(a)(viii)) and can be driven with any class of driver's license (31-7-109(f)). Motorcycles require registration/title and a Class M license. Insurance for mopeds was not verified. | driver's license (any class for a moped; M endorsement for a motorcycle)registration and title (motorcycles; mopeds are exempt from registration)insurance (motorcycles) |
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This page explains the law in plain language. It is not legal advice. Cities, counties and park agencies can add their own rules.