Virginia

Helmet Laws

• Bicycles:
  • No statewide helmet law, but many localities (like Fairfax County and Alexandria) require helmets for riders under 15.

• E-Bikes:
  • No statewide helmet requirement, but helmets are recommended for all riders—especially on Class 3 e-bikes.

E-Bike Classification

Virginia officially recognizes the 3-class e-bike system:

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

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

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

✔ E-bikes are not classified as motor vehicles under Virginia law.
✔ No license, registration, or insurance is required to ride any class.

Where You Can Ride

• Sidewalks:
  • Regulated by local ordinance — often prohibited in business districts.

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

• Shared-Use Paths / Trails:
  • Class 1 & 2 typically allowed.
  • Class 3 may be restricted depending on the path’s designation or local regulations.

• Roadways:
  • All e-bike classes can be ridden on public roads where bicycles are allowed.

Age Restrictions

• You must be at least 14 years old to operate a Class 3 e-bike.

• No age restriction for Class 1 or 2, but younger riders should be supervised.

Lights & Equipment

• Required for night riding:
  • White front light visible from at least 500 feet
  • Red rear reflector or light visible from at least 600 feet

• E-bikes must be equipped with working brakes and side reflectors.

Source:

Virginia Code § 46.2-100 – Definitions (including E-Bikes)