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California e-bike laws
| E-bike classes allowed | Class 1, 2 and 3; motor max 750 W; label required; walk mode to 3.7 mph allowed; bikes modified past limits are excluded (CVC 312.5, amended SB 1271, eff. 1/1/2025) |
|---|---|
| Minimum age | Under 16 may not operate a Class 3; no minimum age found for Class 1 or 2 (CVC 21213) |
| Helmet rule | Class 3: all riders and passengers. Under 18 on any bicycle, fine up to $25 (CVC 21213, 21212). No requirement for Class 1/2 riders 18 and older |
| Where you can ride | Not yet verified |
| License / registration | No driver's license, registration, plates or insurance; not a motor vehicle; speed tampering prohibited (CVC 24016, amended AB 545, eff. 1/1/2026) |
Sources
- https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/codes_displaySection.xhtml?lawCode=VEH§ionNum=312.5.
- https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/codes_displaySection.xhtml?lawCode=VEH§ionNum=21213.
- https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/codes_displaySection.xhtml?lawCode=VEH§ionNum=21212.
- https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/codes_displaySection.xhtml?lawCode=VEH§ionNum=21207.5.
- https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/codes_displaySection.xhtml?lawCode=VEH§ionNum=24016.
- https://leginfo.legislature.ca.gov/faces/codes_displaySection.xhtml?lawCode=VEH§ionNum=406.
This is a summary, not legal advice. Local rules can be stricter; check the sources above.