E-bikes or electric bicycles have a lot to offer Californians as they provide them with the ability to transport themselves over greater distances as compared to if they were providing 100% of their bike's power themselves. And others who may have struggled with shorter trips before will now be able to do those same journeys much more comfortably.
However, if you are excited about changing to an e-bike or even if you are a veteran rider of one, it is important to know and follow California's e-bike laws.
E-Bike Classes
One of the most important things to note is the e-bike classes. If yours does not fit into either of these categories, legally, it is not defined as an e-bike in California and instead will be viewed as a moped, motorcycle or other type of motor vehicle.
Meanwhile, if your e-bike is in Class 1, 2 or 3, you do not need a license to operate it, to register it or to purchase insurance for it, all similar to if it were a regular bicycle instead.
Class 1
E-bikes that are defined as being in class 1 are those that only provide extra power when the rider is actively pedaling and that power can only get them up to a maximum speed of 20 mph. In other words, the use of a throttle, which would cause the e-bike to accelerate while no pedaling is being done, is prohibited.
Class 2
Conversely, class 2 e-bikes do have throttles, meaning that someone with one can transport themself to their destination without pedaling at all. However, the speed limit is the same as is the case for class 1 e-bikes: 20 mph.
Keep in mind that even if you never use them, all e-bikes must have fully operable pedals.
Class 3
Class 3 e-bikes are similar to Class 1 ones in that a throttle is not allowed, meaning that powered assistance can only be provided while the bicyclist is pedaling. However, a significant difference to both of the other classes is that the speed limit for Class 3 e-bikes is 28 mph.
Also note that the minimum age for those riding e-bikes in this class is 16 and that a helmet is required for riders of all ages. (For those operating Class 1 or 2 e-bikes, there is no age limit, and helmets are only required for those who are under 18 years of age.)
Bike Paths, Bike Lanes and Bikeways
You should also take into account what types of bike paths, bike lanes and bikeways you want to use your e-bike on. That is because Class 1 and 4 bike paths/bikeways are not available for Class 3 e-bike riders to use.
Class 1 Bike Paths
Class 1 bike paths are those that are completely away from traffic and solely used by people who are riding regular bicycles or e-bikes, walking or running. They are generally found in more natural settings.
Class 2 Bike Lanes
When you see specially designated bike lanes that are on a roadway, you are looking at Class 2 bike lanes.
Class 3 Bikeways
Class 3 bikeways are also on roadways, but motorists can use them too as can pedestrians, and they do not come with any road markings. However, there is usually a sign indicating that one is there.
Class 4 Bikeways
Class 4 bikeways are those that are in the immediate vicinity of vehicular traffic but are separate from where those cars are allowed to go, often with a sidewalk or nature-focused strip separating the two.
750 Watts
Also note that your e-bike's motor must not provide more than 750 watts of power, regardless of how fast it is going. However, that should be more than enough power to get your e-bike up to speeds of 28 mph, assuming that you are not trying to hit that speed while climbing a steep hill.
2026 and 2028 E-Bike Battery Certification Requirements
By Jan. 1, 2026, e-bikes being sold must have their batteries certified with associating labels displayed prominently on them. This change is being done to help prevent battery-related fires from occurring.
Also, by Jan. 1, 2028, e-bike rental companies must ensure that all of their rentals have certified batteries.
Rules of the Road
Generally, those riding e-bikes will be following the same rules of the road - i.e. following the same traffic laws and adhering to the same speed limits - as those on traditional bicycles. Top speeds for e-bikes should not exceed 20 mph, except for Class 3 e-bikes which should not exceed 28 mph. Exceeding these speeds can result in a fine. Also, people who are driving cars and other vehicles must give you at least three feet of clearance while you are being passed, same as if you had been operating a regular bicycle instead.
Variations on E-Bike Laws
As an e-bike rider, you should not only take into account California's statewide laws but also those of the county, city or other type of community that you are riding in as they may impose greater restrictions.
For example, places in San Diego County are allowed to limit Class 1 and 2 e-bike usage to those who are at least 12 years of age, so if you live there with an interested e-bike rider who is not yet 12, make sure that their riding one is legally allowed where they want to go before allowing them to.
Also, it is possible that local restrictions will have been put in place that relate to where e-bikes may be ridden, particularly when pathways are equestrian or recreational trails.
Final Thoughts
It is great that you have become an enthusiastic e-bike user and are exploring the Golden State with yours. Or perhaps you are not all that enthused and are simply using it to commute to and from work. Regardless, make sure that your e-bike falls into one of the approved classes, you are using it on approved bike paths, bike lanes and bikeways and you are otherwise following all relevant laws.
Doing so will not only keep you safe but will also help you avoid fines, the impounding of your e-bike or other types of penalties.
