South Carolina

Helmet Laws

• Bicycles:
  • No statewide helmet law, but helmet use is encouraged, especially for minors.

• E-Bikes:
  • No helmet requirements for any class of e-bike under current state law.
  • Riders of Class 3 e-bikes are strongly advised to wear helmets due to higher speeds.

E-Bike Classification

South Carolina recognizes the standard 3-class e-bike system:

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

• Class 2: Throttle-assist, max speed of 20 mph

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

✔ E-bikes are not considered motor vehicles.
✔ No license, registration, or insurance is required for use.

Where You Can Ride

• Sidewalks:
  • Rules are determined locally. In general, e-bikes are discouraged from riding on sidewalks.

• Bike Lanes:
  • Permitted unless otherwise posted.

• Shared-Use Paths / Trails:
  • Class 1 & 2 generally allowed unless prohibited by local ordinance.
  • Class 3 e-bikes may be restricted on off-road trails or paths.

• Roadways:
  • E-bikes can operate on roads where bicycles are allowed, but not on limited-access highways.

Age Restrictions

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

• No age requirement for Class 1 or 2.

Lights & Equipment

• Required for night riding:
  • White front light visible from 500 feet
  • Red rear light or reflector visible from 300 feet

• E-bikes must have working brakes and standard reflectors.

Source:

South Carolina Code of Laws – Title 56 (Motor Vehicles)