Veloteq electric bicycle and ebike products deliver the maximum electric bicycle output power permitted under U.S. and Canadian laws

SERVICE=ENJOYMENT. Veloteq Corporation manufactures electric bicycles and ebike products for the North American market. QUALITY=SAFETY.

Links to Electric Bicycle Laws and Regulations in the United States and Canada
(Click on a logo or name to go to the link)

1.	US Laws & Regulations
a.	Arizona-Florida
g.	Georgia-Kentucky
m.	Maryland-No. Carolina
o.	Ohio-Washington
2.	Canada Laws & Regulations
3.	New Ontario Ebike Law
4.	Additional Information Source

REGULATIONS - In the United States electric bicycles are regulated by the Consumer Product Safety Commission. They are referred to as "low-speed electric bicycles". In Canada, where they are referred to as power-assisted bicycles, they are regulated by Transport Canada under the Motor Vehicle Safety Act. Veloteq electric bicycles are compliant with both US and Canadian federal regulations. The state and provincial electric bicycle laws of both countries are in the process of being harmonized with their respective federal regulations. They must have regulated markings mandated by the CPSC in the US and CMVSA in Canada indicating compliance with those laws.

At the present time many state laws in the US are not harmonized with the federal regulations. In some states they are still regulated as mopeds or motorized cycles which are regulated by the Department of Transportation under the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Act. Because low-speed electric bicycles no longer come under these regulations, on which many state laws are based, those laws are obsolete and in need of revision. This is sometimes done administratively by simply declassifying low-speed electric bicycles as motor vehicles, and reclassifying them as bicycles, which was the intent of Congress. In other cases they deem that legislative action is required in order to harmonize and update their regulations in accordance with US Public Law PL107-319, enacted in December, 2002. A number of current regulations are listed below for states that have or are in the process of updating their electric bicycle regulations.

In Canada, British Columbia, Alberta, Manitoba, Saskatchewan, Quebec, Nova Scotia, and New Brunswick, regulations are harmonized with the provisions of the Canada Motor Vehicle Safety Act. Ontario is still undecided whether or not the citizens of the province can be trusted to conduct themselves as other Canadians do.

The laws and regulations posted on this page are derived from reliable sources, however, regulations are subject to change. It is the visitor's responsibility to reaffirm that the material included herein is accurate for their location by contacting the local authorities. This information is published as a service to visitors. Veloteq will not be held responsible for information regarding any changes in local or national changes of regulations.

US Laws & Regulations

The full Congressional Record of PL107-319 (click above)
This is comprised of the original House Resolution, H.R. 727, to remove the regulation of low speed electric bicycles from the US Department of Transportation and transfer safety oversight to the Consumer Product Safety Commission, succeeding actions in the House leading to the passage of H.R. 727, ratification by the U.S. Senate and signing into law of PL107-319 by the President on December 4, 2002.

Under US PL107-319 passed on December 4, 2002 jurisdiction over the requirements for electric bicycles was moved from the US Department of Transportation to the US Consumer Product Safety Commission. A copy of that law and the US CPSC requirements for them can be read using the links below.
Public Law 107-319, 116 Stat. 2776; Low Speed Electric Bicycles (requires Acrobat Reader).
US CPSC Requirements for Bicycles (includes low power electric bicycles) 16CFR Part 1512
(requires Acrobat Reader)

The United States Department of Transportation has defined an electric bicycle as any bicycle or tricycle with a low-powered electric motor weighing under 100 pounds, with a top motor-powered speed not in excess of 20 miles per hour, under section 1202, under the definition of 'Electric Bicycle'. For further clarification, the weight restriction applies only to the motor, not the curb weight of the vehicle.

Description of US Federal Electric Bicycle Law with reference to Preemption (supersedence) over State laws from Cornell School of Law. (click on logo above) Note: The Consumer Product Safety Commission is responsible for the safety standards regulation of low power electric bicycles. Individual states retain the right to regulate their use within the states and municipalities.

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STATES A-F

Electric and Motorized Bicycle Law in Arizona
1. A certificate of title is not required for a motorized electric or gas powered bicycle or tricycle.
2. Registration is not required for a motorized electric or gas powered bicycle or tricycle.
3. Vehicle license tax is not imposed on a motorized electric or gas powered bicycle or tricycle.

Motorized Bicycle Law in Arkansas
Operators of motorized bicycles in Arkansas who are not in possession of a motorcycle or motor-driven operator's license, or a Class A, B, C, or D Operator's License must obtain a Motorized Bicycle Operator's Certificate issued by the Arkansas State Police. A fee of $2.00 is payable for the issuance of the certificate. Registration of the motorized bicycle is not required.

Electric Bicycle Laws and Regulations in California
Overview: In California an “electric bicycle" cannot be capable of traveling at speeds over 20 mph on level ground using the motor’s power only, and must have not more than 1000 Watts of motor power output. Operators must obey all rules of the road, wear a bicycle helmet, and be over 16 years old. No insurance is required. No driver license or vehicle licensing or registration is required provided that the electric bicycle meets the Safety and Equipment Requirements described below.

Motorized Bicycle Electric Motor; Safety and Equipment Requirements

California Electric Bicycle Law Quick Summary:

A driver's license is not required to drive an electric bicycle.
No insurance, registration or license plates are required.
Driver shall not operate a motorized bicycle if under 16 years of age.
Driver must wear a bicycle helmet.
Bicycle must have fully operative pedals.
Power output must not be more than 1000 Watt.
On level ground must not travel faster than 20mph on motor power only.
Electric motor must disengage when brakes are applied or when throttle is released.

Electric Bicycle Laws and Regulations in Colorado

An operator of a motorized bicycle shall possess a valid driver's license or minor driver's license. No motorized bicycle shall be operated on any interstate system as described in section 43-2-101 (2), C.R.S., except where a bicycle may be operated on such interstate system, on any limited-access road of the state highway system as described in section 43-2-101 (1), C.R.S., or on any sidewalk, unless such operation is specifically designated. Motorized bicycles may be operated upon roadways, except as provided in this section, and in bicycle lanes included within such roadways. Insurance is not required. Registration is $5.25 for three years.

Electric Bicycle Laws and Regulations in Florida
BICYCLE.--Every vehicle propelled solely by human power, and every motorized bicycle propelled by a combination of human power and an electric helper motor capable of propelling the vehicle at a speed of not more than 20 miles per hour on level ground upon which any person may ride, having two tandem wheels, and including any device generally recognized as a bicycle though equipped with two front or two rear wheels.

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G-K

Electric Bicycle Laws and Regulations in Georgia
In Georgia, as in most states, the bicycle is legally a "vehicle". This classification means that general vehicular traffic law applies to the operation of a bicycle. However the vehicular code and various regulations include many specific qualifications for specific classes of vehicles. Wherever the code or regulation uses the phrase "vehicle" that section applies to all vehicles, including bicycles. When the term "motor vehicle" is used, that portion does not apply to bicycles. Click on the logo for the full text of the Georgia Code related to electric bicycles.

Electric Bicycle Laws and Regulations in Indiana
(d) "Motor vehicle", for purposes of IC 9-30-10, does not include a motorized bicycle.
SECTION 3. IC 9-13-2-109 IS AMENDED TO READ AS FOLLOWS [EFFECTIVE UPON PASSAGE]: Sec. 109. "Motorized bicycle" means a two (2) or three (3) wheeled vehicle that is propelled by an internal combustion engine or a battery powered motor, and if powered by an internal combustion engine, has the following:
(1) An engine rating of not more than two (2) horsepower and a cylinder capacity not exceeding fifty (50) cubic centimeters.
(2) An automatic transmission.
(3) A maximum design speed of not more than twenty-five (25) miles per hour on a flat surface.

Electric Bicycle Laws and Regulations in Iowa
In addition to automobiles, motorcycles and scooters, Iowa law allows the following types of vehicles to be operated on city streets.

Motorized bicycle, motor bike, moped, is defined as “a motor vehicle having a saddle or a seat for the use of a rider, designed to travel on not more than three wheels in contact with the ground, and not capable of operating at a speed in excess of 30 miles per hour on level ground unassisted by human power.”
Bicycle. The definition of “bicycle” was amended by House File 2525, passed during the 2006 Session, as follows: “Bicycle means either of the following: (1) A device having two wheels and having at least one saddle or seat for the use of a rider, which is propelled by human power. (2) A device having two or three wheels with fully operable pedals and an electric motor of less than 750 watts (one horsepower), whose maximum speed on a paved level surface, when powered solely by such a motor while ridden, is less than 20 miles per hour.”

Kansas Long Range Transportation Plan
Electric Bicycle Laws and Regulations in Kansas

8-1592b. Electric-assisted bicycles; traffic law application; no registration or driver's license required. Vehicle registration and driver's license shall not be required for operation of an electric-assisted bicycle. Traffic regulations applicable to bicycles shall apply to electric-assisted bicycles, except tricycles with no brake horsepower.

What is considered a Motorized Bicycle (Moped)?
Every device having two tandem wheels or three wheels, which may be propelled by either human power or helper motor, or by both, and which has - A motor which produces not more than 3.5 brake horsepower; a cylinder capacity of not more than 130 cubic centimeters; an automatic transmission; and the capability of a maximum design speed of no more than 30 miles per hour.

Electric Bicycle Laws and Regulations in Kentucky
In Kentucky, electric bicycles are considered mopeds. A 'moped' is defined as having: "No more than two (2) brake horsepower, a cylinder capacity not exceeding fifty (50) cubic centimeters, an automatic transmission not requiring clutching or shifting by the operator after the drive system is engaged, and capable of a maximum speed of not more than thirty (30) miles per hour." KRS 189.285. If not sure about the vehicle, contact the County Clerk's office to find out if the vehicle needs to be licensed.

First time applicants for a moped license that do not have either an operator or motorcycle license must complete a driver license application. They will only be required to complete the general knowledge and vision tests---neither a skills test or permit is required. Upon successful completion of the required tests, a license can be issued. Applicants who already have any form of valid motor vehicle operator's license or permit (Class D, M or a CDL) do not have to apply for a moped license.

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M-N

Electric Bicycle and Ebike Regulations in Maryland
In Maryland, low speed electric bicycles are considered mopeds.

Moped Definition

A moped is a bicyle that meets the following requirements:

Is designed to be propelled by human power with some assistance from a motor.
Has pedals that drive the bicycle mechanically
Has two or three wheels, of which are more than 14 inches in diameter
Has a motor with a rating of 1.5 brake horsepower or less, and, if the motor is an internal combustion engine, a capacity of 50 cubic centimeters piston displacement or less.

Mopeds are also not allowed to be operated at a speed greater than 30 MPH on public roads and highways.

Moped Traffic Laws

Moped operators are not required to wear a helmet.

Mopeds may not be operated at speed greater than 30mph

Mopeds cannot be operated on highways that have a speed limit greater than 50mph.

Where there is a bike lane paved to a smooth surface or a shoulder paved to a smooth surface, a person operating a bicycle or a motor scooter shall use the bike lane or shoulder and may not ride on the roadway, except for common traffic procedures, which include:

overtaking and passing another bicycle, motor scooter, pedestrian, or other vehicle within the bike lane or shoulder if the overtaking and passing cannot be done safely within the bike lane or shoulder

preparing for a left turn at an intersection or into an alley, private road, or driveway

When reasonably necessary to leave the bike lane or shoulder to avoid debris or other hazardous condition

When reasonably necessary to leave the bike lane or shoulder because the bike lane or shoulder is overlaid with a right turn lane, merge lane, or other marking that breaks the continuity of the bike lane or shoulder.

Gas and electric motorized toy scooters cannot be operated on sidewalks

A person may not operate a bicycle or a motor scooter on any highway or roadway while the person is wearing any headset covering both ears

Moped and Motor Scooter Registration

All "motor vehicles" are required to be registered in Maryland, but vehicles classified as either motor scooters or mopeds are exempt from this law. So all mopeds and motor scooters do not need to be registered with tags in Maryland.

Electric Bicycle and Ebike Regulations in Massachusetts
New laws come into effect August 1 for low speed electric bicycles.
Boston.com, July 24 Scooter owners get break from city
The new law was passed by the Legislature in January as part of a larger initiative to create vehicle classifications for “low speed’’ electric and alternative-fuel vehicles.

Electric Bicycle and Ebike Regulations in Michigan
Electric bicycles are considered mopeds in the State of Michigan. Registration is required for a fee of $15 for three years. An operator's license or a moped operator's license is required. A title is not required. Mopeds are exempt from the requirement for motor vehicle insurance.

"Moped" means a 2- or 3-wheeled vehicle which is equipped with a motor that does not exceed 50 cubic centimeters piston displacement, produces 2.0 brake horsepower or less, and cannot propel the vehicle at a speed greater than 30 miles per hour on a level surface. The power drive system shall not require the operator to shift gears.

Electric Bicycle and Ebike Regulations in Minnesota
Motorized bicycles, including electric-assisted bicycles, must be registered and licensed at an annual tax of $6. No title is required. They may be operated on streets and roadways if registered, but the operator needs either a driver's license or a motorized bicycle operator permit. Electric assisted bicycles to not require motorcycle insurance. (more, click here)

Electric Bicycle and Ebike Regulations in Missouri

Licensing for a scooter or moped depends on whether the vehicle meets the definition of a motorized bicycle. The Missouri statute definition of a motorized bicycle is as follows:

"Any two-wheeled or three-wheeled device having an automatic transmission and a motor with a cylinder capacity of not more than fifty (50) cubic centimeters, which produces less than three (3) gross brake horsepower, and is capable of propelling the device at a maximum speed of not more than thirty (30) miles per hour on level ground."

A motorized bicycle does not have to be registered with the Missouri Department of Revenue. However, you must have a valid driver license (though no motorcycle endorsement is required).

Missouri statute does not require a helmet to be worn when operating a motorized bicycle. Please contact your local law enforcement agencies for any county/municipal codes that deal with helmets and motorized bicycles.

Keep in mind that no motorized bicycle may be operated on any public thoroughfare located within this state that has been designated as part of the federal interstate highway system.

Electric Bicycle and Ebike Regulations in Nebraska
In Nebraska, electric bicycles are considered mopeds. The following regulations apply.

§60-637 : A moped is defined as a bicycle with fully operative pedals for propulsion by human power, an automatic transmission and a motor not exceeding 50 cc that produces no more than two brake horsepower at a maximum design speed of no more than 30 miles per hour.

Mopeds are exempt from titling and registration. They can be operated on public roads as long as the operator complies with the laws regarding mopeds and the pedals are not removed. The laws regarding the operation of mopeds are §60,6,309 thru §60-6,313.

While mopeds are exempt from titling and registering, if at any time the pedals are removed the vehicle becomes an off-road vehicle restricted to operation on private property. A Class O or Learner's permit is required.

Electric Bicycle and Ebike Regulations in Nevada
In Nevada low-speed electric bicycles are not considered motor vehicles. Operator licenses, registration, and insurance are not required. The operation of low speed electric bicycles is regulated in accordance with existing laws relating to the operation of bicycles. For the full text of the electric bicycle regulations, click here.

You must be age 16 or older to operate a moped on North Carolina highways or public vehicular areas. A driver license is not required, and the moped does not have to be registered, inspected or covered by liability insurance. A motorcycle safety helmet is required by law when operating a moped on North Carolina highways. A moped cannot have a motor of more than 50 cubic centimeters, an external shifting device or have the capability of exceeding 30 miles per hour on a level surface.

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O-W

Electric Bicycle and Ebike Regulations in Ohio1.
No person may operate a motorized bicycle (moped) on any public roadway or private property used by the public unless the person:
2. Is 14 years of age or older and has obtained an Ohio motorized bicycle operator's license.
Holds a valid Ohio driver license or motorcycle license.

Annual registration is $24.50 per year. Moped Driver's License is $19.50. No person whose license is under suspension is eligible to apply for a motorized bicycle operator license.

Electric Bicycle Laws and Regulations in the State of Oregon
(ORS 801.345) An electric assisted bicycle: is designed to be operated on the ground on wheels; has a seat or saddle for use of the rider; is designed to travel with not more than three wheels in contact with the ground; has both fully operative pedals for human propulsion and an electric motor; and is equipped with an electric motor that has a power output of not more than 1,000 watts and is incapable of propelling the vehicle at a speed of greater than 20 miles per hour on level ground.

Moped and electric bicycle laws in the State of Rhode Island
Electric bicycles, lacking a more specific description in the Rhode Island law, appear to be classed as mopeds and require an operator's license but not a motorcycle operator's license.

Electric Bicycle Laws and Regulations in Texas
The 78th Legislature addressed the issue of new transportation technology. The law now recognizes motor assisted scooters and neighborhood electric vehicles for limited street usage. The law can be found in the Texas Transportation Code (TRC) as Subchapter D, Sections 551.301 and 551.302. Subchapter D became effective on September 1, 2003.

Electric Bicycle Laws and Regulations in Utah (excerpted from Title 41-6a-102
13) "Electric assisted bicycle" means a moped:
     (a) with an electric motor with a power output of not more than 1,000 watts; and
     (b) which is not capable of:
     (i) propelling the device at a speed of more than 20 miles per hour on level ground; and
     (ii) increasing the speed of the device when human power is used to propel the device at more than 20 miles per hour.

They do not need to be registered, however the operator must have at least a Class D driver's license. A motorcycle endorsement is not required. Electric assisted bicycles must not be confused with motorized scooters. For the definition and examples of motorized scooters click here.

Electric Bicycle and Ebike Regulations in the State of Vermont
LAW ENFORCEMENT BULLETIN #03-06 issued on April 8, 2003 emphatically states that "anyone riding a low speed electric bicycle would be afforded the same rights and responsibilities of any bicyclists."

Electric Bicycle Laws and Regulations in the State of Virginia

Electric Bicycle Laws and Regulations in the State of Washington

RCW 46.20.500
Special endorsement -- Exceptions. (Effective January 1, 2004.)

(1) No person may drive either a two-wheeled or a three-wheeled motorcycle, or a motor-driven cycle unless such person has a valid driver's license specially endorsed by the director to enable the holder to drive such vehicles.

(2) However, a person sixteen years of age or older, holding a valid driver's license of any class issued by the state of the person's residence, may operate a moped without taking any special examination for the operation of a moped.

(3) No driver's license is required for operation of an electric- assisted bicycle if the operator is at least sixteen years of age. Persons under sixteen years of age may not operate an electric- assisted bicycle.

(4) No driver's license is required to operate an electric personal assistive mobility device or a power wheelchair.

(5) No driver's license is required to operate a motorized foot scooter. Motorized foot scooters may not be operated at any time from a half hour after sunset to a half hour before sunrise without reflectors of a type approved by the state patrol.