No license? No Registration? No Insurance? No Problem!

On December 4, 2002, the 107th Congress voted upon, and passed H.R. Bill 727. This bill defined a low-speed electric bicycle as any bicycle with fully operable pedals, an electric motor not to exceed 750 Watts (1 H.P.) and a top motor-powered speed not in excess of 20 mph. The bill would later become Public Law PL107-319 and be signed into law by President George Bush on December 9, 2002. Simply put, the only laws that apply to electric bikes are those that apply to conventional bicycles.

Frequently Asked Question about Electric Bike Law

If I am not a citizen can I legally ride an electric scooter in the U.S.?
Yes.

If I am under 16, can I ride an electric bicycle legally?
Yes.

Are there special insurance requirements?
No insurance is required to ride an e-bike. However, if you want to insure it against theft, check your current home owner's insurance policy. An electric bicycle may be covered. To determine coverage, check with your insurance company or agent.

Is an electric bicycle considered a zero emission vehicle (ZEV)?
Yes. While some communities only define ZEV's as car replacements, others are looking for alternative ways to reduce sources of mobile pollution. Electric bikes have qualified for electric vehicle credits in some communities. Check with your local environmental management group for clarification. Every time you take a short trip on your electric bicycle rather than a car, you save energy and reduce pollution.

When riding an electric bicycle or scooter do I need a license?
No, Public law PL107-319 states that if the electric bicycle or scooter has a motor not exceeding 750 watts [1 hp] then no drivers license is required to operate.