California

Helmet Laws

• Bicycles: Helmets are required for riders under 18 on bicycles (CVC §21212).

• E-Bikes:
  • Class 1 & 2 – Helmets required for riders under 18.
  • Class 3 – All riders, regardless of age, must wear a helmet.

E-Bike Classification

California was the first U.S. state to adopt the 3-class system:

• Class 1: Pedal-assist only, up to 20 mph.

• Class 2: Throttle-assist, up to 20 mph.

• Class 3: Pedal-assist only, up to 28 mph.

✔ E-bikes are not motor vehicles and do not require a license, registration, or insurance.

Where You Can Ride

• Sidewalks: Varies by city. Often prohibited, especially for e-bikes.

• Bike Lanes:
  • Class 1 & 2 e-bikes are allowed.
  • Class 3 e-bikes may only use protected or on-street bike lanes, not shared-use paths.

• Shared Paths/Trails:
  • Class 3 e-bikes typically not allowed unless specifically permitted.

• Roadways: All e-bike classes allowed when following bicycle rules.

Age Restrictions

• Riders must be at least 16 years old to operate a Class 3 e-bike.

Lights & Equipment

• At night, California requires:
  • White front light visible from 300 feet
  • Red rear reflector or light
  • Pedal and side reflectors

• All e-bikes must have working brakes and a permanently affixed label identifying the e-bike’s class, top speed, and motor wattage.

Source:

California Vehicle Code §312.5 – Electric Bicycle Law

• California DMV E-Bike Guide