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E-bikes & the law

California e-bike laws: classes, ages and helmets

California sorts e-bikes into three classes: Class 1 and Class 2 stop helping at 20 mph, Class 3 at 28 mph, and none may have a motor over 750 watts. Riders under 16 may not ride a Class 3, and everyone under 18 must wear a certified helmet on any e-bike.

Reviewed · By the Cyber City service team · 3 min read · 2 tools to try

Quick facts

  • Class 1 and 2No minimum age
  • Class 316 and older
  • HelmetEveryone under 18
  • Class 3 helmetEvery rider
  • Motor750 watts or less

What are the three classes?

California law calls something an e-bike only if it has working pedals and an electric motor of 750 watts or less.1 Class 1 helps only while you pedal and stops at 20 mph. Class 2 also has a throttle and stops at 20 mph. Class 3 helps only while you pedal, stops at 28 mph and has a speedometer.1

Try it · Class finder

Which class is this e-bike?

Working pedals?
A throttle?
The help stops at

00

Pick an answer above.

Source 1 · the maker’s label on the frame shows the class

When is it not an e-bike?

A bike that can go faster than 20 mph on the motor alone, or has a motor over 750 watts, is not an e-bike in California, whatever the box says.15 It may count as a moped or a motorcycle, which can need a license and registration.

How old do you have to be?

State law sets no minimum age for Class 1 and Class 2 e-bikes.5 Class 3 riders must be 16 or older.2 Since January 1, 2026, stores may not sell a Class 3 e-bike to anyone under 16, so we ask for ID.4

Who has to wear a helmet?

Everyone under 18 must wear a certified helmet on any bicycle, including e-bikes.3 On a Class 3, every rider and passenger wears one, whatever their age.2

Try it · Helmet check

Does this rider need a helmet?

On a

00

Pick an answer above.

Sources 2 and 3

Sources

  1. California Vehicle Code §312.5 (what an e-bike is, the three classes, the label) (opens in a new tab)
  2. California Vehicle Code §21213 (Class 3: age 16, helmets) (opens in a new tab)
  3. California Vehicle Code §21212 (helmets under 18) (opens in a new tab)
  4. AB 965 (2025), Vehicle Code §21212.5 (no Class 3 sales to riders under 16) (opens in a new tab)
  5. California State Parks OHMVR, Information Bulletin 25-1 (classification chart) (opens in a new tab)

This article explains California’s rules in plain words. It is not legal advice. Laws change: check the sources, and your city’s rules, before you ride.

Not sure which class a bike is?

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