New Hampshire

Helmet Laws

• Bicycles:
  • Riders under 16 years old are required to wear helmets when riding traditional bicycles.

• E-Bikes:
  • Class 3 e-bike riders are required to wear helmets, regardless of age.
  • Helmet use is strongly recommended for all riders.

E-Bike Classification

New Hampshire has officially adopted the 3-class e-bike 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 considered motor vehicles.
✔ No license, registration, or insurance is required.

Where You Can Ride

• Sidewalks:
  • E-bike use on sidewalks is generally not permitted, unless allowed by local ordinance.

• Bike Lanes:
  • All classes of e-bikes are allowed unless restricted locally.

• Shared-Use Paths / Trails:
  • Class 1 & 2 are allowed unless prohibited by local authority.
  • Class 3 use may be restricted on trails with heavy foot traffic.

• Roadways:
  • E-bikes may operate on roads where bicycles are allowed, following all traffic laws.

Age Restrictions

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

• No minimum age is listed for Class 1 or 2 e-bikes.

Lights & Equipment

• Nighttime riding requires:
  • A white front light visible from 300 feet
  • A red rear reflector or light visible from 300 feet

• E-bikes must be equipped with working brakes and reflectors on wheels and pedals.

Source:

New Hampshire RSA § 265:144-a