South Dakota

Helmet Laws

• Bicycles:
  • No statewide helmet law for bicycles.

• E-Bikes:
  • No helmet requirement, including for Class 3.
  • Riders — especially minors — are strongly encouraged to wear helmets for safety.

E-Bike Classification

South Dakota follows the standard 3-class e-bike system, which includes:

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

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

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

✔ E-bikes are not considered motor vehicles.
✔ No registration, license, or insurance is required for Class 1–3 e-bikes.

Where You Can Ride

• Sidewalks:
  • Governed by local law — many cities prohibit riding e-bikes on sidewalks in business districts.

• Bike Lanes:
  • All classes of e-bikes are allowed unless otherwise posted.

• Shared-Use Paths / Trails:
  • Class 1 & 2 typically allowed.
  • Class 3 may be restricted based on local rules or trail design.

• Roadways:
  • All e-bike classes may ride on roadways where bicycles are permitted.

Age Restrictions

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

• No state age requirement for Class 1 or 2.

Lights & Equipment

• Nighttime riding requires:
  • A white front light visible from 500 feet
  • A red rear reflector or light visible from 300–600 feet

• All bikes and e-bikes must have working brakes and side reflectors.

Source:

South Dakota Codified Laws – Title 32 (Motor Vehicles)