North Carolina

Helmet Laws

• Bicycles:
  • Riders under 16 years old are required by law to wear helmets when operating a bicycle.

• E-Bikes:
  • No specific helmet requirement for adults.
  • Class 3 e-bike riders are required to wear helmets regardless of age.
  • Helmet use is strongly encouraged across all classes.

E-Bike Classification

North Carolina uses the 3-class e-bike system, which defines e-bikes as:

• Class 1: Pedal-assist only, max 20 mph

• Class 2: Throttle-assist (no pedaling required), max 20 mph

• Class 3: Pedal-assist only, max 28 mph

✔ E-bikes are not classified as motor vehicles.
✔ No license, registration, or insurance is required for e-bike use.

Where You Can Ride

• Sidewalks:
  • Regulated by local municipalities – typically not allowed for e-bikes in downtown or business zones.

• Bike Lanes:
  • All classes permitted unless restricted locally.

• Shared-Use Paths / Greenways:
  • Class 1 & 2 typically allowed.
  • Class 3 may be prohibited on certain trails – check local rules.

• Roadways:
  • E-bikes can be used on most public roads, following standard bicycle laws (riding with traffic, signaling, etc.).

Age Restrictions

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

• No age restriction for Class 1 or 2 models.

Lights & Equipment

• For nighttime riding, e-bikes and bicycles must have:
  • A white front light visible from 300 feet
  • A red rear reflector or light visible from 200 feet

• Brakes must allow the rider to stop within 15 feet at 10 mph on dry pavement.

Source:

North Carolina General Statutes – § 20-171.9 to 20-171.11