California e-bike laws
Last checked Oct 23, 2026 ยท By EbikePost editors
Short answer
Three-class system: yes. Class 3: A Class 3 e-bike is pedal-assist only, stops assisting at 28 mph and must have a speedometer. Class 3 riders and passengers must wear a helmet, and nobody under 16 may operate a Class 3.
| Minimum age | No statewide minimum age for Class 1 or 2 in the sections reviewed; under 16 may not operate a Class 3. |
|---|---|
| Helmets | Anyone under 18 must wear a helmet on a bicycle, which includes e-bikes. Every Class 3 rider and passenger, of any age, must wear a helmet that meets ASTM or CPSC standards. |
| Bike paths | E-bike riders follow the bicycle rules (Vehicle Code 312.5(b)); a local authority may ban e-bikes (or a class) on hiking, recreational and equestrian trails, and State Parks may bar them on paths and trails it manages. |
| Roads | A person riding an e-bike is subject to the same Vehicle Code article as bicycle riders; e-bikes are defined as bicycles with a motor under 750 W. |
| Sidewalks | No statewide e-bike sidewalk rule was found in the sections reviewed; check local ordinances. |
Classes defined in Vehicle Code 312.5 (as amended by SB 1271, effective 1 Jan 2025); helmet rules in 21212 (amended by AB 544, effective 1 Jan 2026) and 21213. E-bikes must carry a label with class, top assisted speed and motor wattage.
StatuteOfficial pageChecked Oct 23, 2026
Rebates in California
- California E-Bike Incentive Project (CARB): Was up to $2,000 per voucher for low-income residents (closed)
- Ava Bike Electric (Ava Community Energy): Standard $400 ($1,000 income-qualified); cargo or adaptive $900 ($1,500 income-qualified); income-qualified buyers also get a $250 safety equipment rebate (open)
- Pasadena Water and Power E-Bike Rebate: Up to $1,000 per e-bike (not more than the bike's cost); two rebates per account (open)
- Peninsula Clean Energy E-Bike Rebate (San Mateo County): Up to $1,000 toward a new e-bike (closed)
This is general information, not legal advice.