When Do Electric Bikes Need to Be Registered? (Explained)

Electric bikes, or e-bikes, are becoming more popular as eco-friendly and convenient transportation.

However, as with any vehicle, there are certain rules and regulations that e-bike riders must follow. One of the most significant is the registration requirement for e-bikes.

This article will examine the circumstances under which electric bikes must be registered:

When Do Electric Bikes Need to Be Registered

Several factors determine whether you need to register your e-bike.

First, it depends on the type of e-bike you have, and second, it depends on your state. Nevertheless, the federal government does not require e-bikes to be registered.

Bicycles

Generally speaking, if your e-bike is classified as a bicycle, you won’t need to register it.

This applies to e-bikes with a maximum speed of 20 miles per hour and a motor with a maximum power output of 750 watts.

These e-bikes are considered the same as traditional bicycles under federal law. So no registration is necessary.

“Motorbikes”

However, it’s worth noting that some states have their own rules regarding e-bike registration.

For instance, in California, e-bikes with a maximum speed of 28 mph and a motor with a maximum power output of 750 watts are still classified as bicycles and don’t need to be registered.

But if your e-bike exceeds these specifications, it might be considered a moped or motorcycle, depending on where you live, and might require registration.

The bottom line is it’s a good idea to check with your local department of motor vehicles to find out what the specific regulations are in your area. That way, you can be sure you’re following the rules and enjoying your e-bike safely and legally.

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What Are the Different Categories of Electric Bikes?

Electric bikes in the United States are separated into 3 categories called Class 1, Class 2, and Class 3.

Each category has its own rules and regulations. The category that an e-bike belongs to depends on its type of motor and how fast it can go.

Knowing which category an e-bike belongs to can help you choose the right e-bike for your needs and make sure you follow the rules when riding.

Class 1 E-Bikes:

Class 1 e-bikes are a type of electric bike that only provide assistance when the rider is pedaling.

They can help the rider reach a maximum speed of 20 miles per hour. However, they don’t have a throttle to make the bike go faster.

Class 1 e-bikes can be ridden on bike paths, multi-use paths, and some streets. But, they are usually not allowed on sidewalks.

This is because they’re designed to be used like regular bicycles and should be ridden safely and responsibly.

Class 2 E-Bikes:

Class 2 e-bikes are another type of electric bike that can help riders travel up to 20 miles per hour.

They have a pedal-assist feature. Additionally, unlike class 1 e-bikes, they have a throttle that allows the rider to move the bike forward without pedaling.

Class 2 e-bikes are also allowed on some streets, multi-use paths, and bike lanes, just like Class 1 e-bikes.

On the other hand, you are typically not permitted to ride them on sidewalks.

Class 3 E-Bikes:

Class 3 e-bikes are electric bikes that can provide pedal assistance up to a maximum speed of 28 mph.

They don’t have a throttle. Therefore, the rider needs to be pedaling to get assistance.

Like other e-bikes, Class 3 e-bikes are allowed on bike paths, multi-use paths, and some streets, but not usually on sidewalks. 

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How Do You Know if You Need to Register Your Bike?

Registering your e-bike depends on several factors. This includes the type of e-bike you own, where you live, and the local regulations.

These guidelines should help you decide whether or not you need to register your e-bike:

Check the Local Regulations:

E-bike registration requirements vary by state. Some states and cities require e-bikes to be registered, while others do not.

To find out the specific regulations in your area, check with your local DMV or transportation authority.

You can also visit their website or give them a call.

Determine the Classification of your E-Bike:

In the United States, e-bikes are classified into three categories based on the type of motor and the maximum speed the e-bike can reach.

Generally, Class 1 and Class 2 e-bikes do not require registration, but Class 3 e-bikes may require registration in some states and cities.

Check the Motor Power and Maximum Speed:

Some states and cities may have specific motor power and maximum speed limits for e-bikes that require registration.

For example, e-bikes with a motor power above 750 watts or a maximum speed above 28 mph must be registered in California.

Check with your local DMV or transportation authority to find out if there are any specific limits in your area.

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Consider the Intended Use of your E-Bike:

If you plan to use your e-bike on public roads or bike paths, you may be required to register it.

However, registration may not be necessary if you only plan to use your e-bike on private property, such as your land.

Remember that even if your e-bike does not require registration, you may still need to follow certain rules and regulations when riding it.

When Are Electric Bikes Considered Motorized Vehicles?

Electric bikes can be considered motorized vehicles depending on certain criteria.

In the United States, e-bikes that can go up to 20 miles per hour and have a motor with a maximum power output of 750 watts are not considered motorized vehicles and are treated the same as regular bicycles.

This means they can be ridden on bike lanes, multi-use paths, and some streets.

However, suppose an e-bike goes faster than 20 miles per hour or has a motor with a higher power output. In that case, it might be classified as a moped or motorcycle.

They can also be subject to additional rules and regulations like registration, insurance, and a special operating license.

In Europe, e-bikes are subject to different rules depending on the country. Some countries have specific classifications and regulations for e-bikes. But in general, if your e-bike meets the criteria of a traditional bicycle, it can be ridden in the same places as regular bicycles.

What States Require Electric Bikes to Be Registered?

The US federal government does not mandate the registration of electric bikes. However, some states have regulations regarding e-bike registration.

These regulations can vary depending on the type of e-bike, the maximum speed, and the motor power output.

Here is a list of states that require e-bikes to be registered and their specific requirements:

1. Hawaii: Low-speed e-bikes with a motor with a power output of up to 750 watts and a maximum speed of less than 20 mph need to be registered. The registration fee for e-bikes in Hawaii is a one-time fee of $30.
2. New Jersey: In New Jersey, e-bikes with a maximum speed of 20 miles per hour and a motor with a power output of up to 750 watts do not need to be registered. However, e-bikes that exceed these specifications must be registered and insured.
3. New York: In New York, e-bikes with a maximum speed of 20 miles per hour and a motor with a power output of up to 750 watts do not need to be registered. However, e-bikes that exceed these specifications are considered mopeds and must be registered and insured.
4. Oregon: E-bikes with a top speed of 20 mph and a maximum power output of 1,000 watts are exempt from registration requirements in Oregon. However, e-bikes that exceed these specifications are considered mopeds and must be registered and insured.
5. Texas: In Texas, e-bikes with a maximum speed of 20 miles per hour and a motor with a power output of up to 750 watts do not need to be registered. However, e-bikes that exceed these specifications must be registered and have a special license plate.
6. California: In California, e-bikes with a maximum speed of 28 miles per hour and a motor with a power output of up to 750 watts are considered bicycles and do not need to be registered. However, e-bikes that exceed these specifications may be classified as mopeds or motorcycles, requiring registration, insurance, and a special license.

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How Often Do the Rules Change Around This?

The rules and regulations surrounding electric bikes can vary from state to state and even within the same state, and they can change over time.

This is because e-bikes are a relatively new form of transportation, and lawmakers are still trying to figure out how to regulate them.

For example, in 2019, New York passed a law allowing Class 3 e-bikes with a top speed of 28 mph to be ridden on public roads and bike lanes.

This was a significant change from the previous law, which banned e-bikes from being ridden on public roads and resulted in many fines and confiscations of e-bikes.

Similarly, in 2020, California passed a law that clarified the classification of e-bikes and allowed them to be ridden on certain trails in state parks.

This change made it easier for e-bike riders to enjoy outdoor recreational activities without fear of breaking the law.

Sources:

State of Hawaii – A Bill for an Act

NJ Bicycle and Pedestrian Resource Center – E-Bikes, E-Scooters, and More in New Jersey

NYC DOT – Electric Bicycles & More

The New York State Senate – Senate Bill S5294A