E-BIKE Safety
E-bikes are a fun, efficient, and environmentally friendly way to get around San Ramon, but safety should always come first. Riders are encouraged to wear helmets, obey traffic laws, and stay alert to cars, pedestrians, and other cyclists. As E-bike popularity grows, it’s important for riders to understand and follow safety guidelines to ensure a safe experience for everyone on our roads, trails, and pathways.
California E-bike laws
- Under California law, the rules of the road for an e-bike are the same as those for a standard bicycle, with few exceptions. Currently, you do not need an operator's license to ride an e-bike. Currently, you must be 16 or older to operate a Class 3 e-bike and wear a helmet regardless of age.
- You may ride e-bikes on roadways but are subject to the California Vehicle Code (CVC). The CVC covers basic rules of the road, like going with the flow of traffic and obeying lights and signs. For current information, read the California Vehicle Code (CVC) sections governing e-bikes[External].
- Visit the California DMV Two-Wheeled Vehicle Operations page[External] to learn more.
The State of California e-bike classifications:
- A Class 1 e-bike has a pedal-assisted motor. It provides power only when pedaling. The motor turns off when the bike hits 20 mph.
Type 1 Requirements:
- No minimum age
- No driver's license required
- Helmet required for 17 and under
- A Class 2 e-bike is a throttle-assisted electric bicycle equipped with a motor to propel the bicycle up to 20 mph even when the rider is not pedaling.
Type Requirements 2:
- No minimum age
- No driver's license required
- Helmet required for 17 and under
- A Class 3 e-bike provides pedal-assisted power up to 28 mph. All riders must wear a helmet while riding a Class 3 e-bike, regardless of age. Operators of Class 3 e-bikes must be 16 or older.
Type 3 Requirements:
- Minimum age 16
- No driver's license required
- Helmet required for all ages
Electric Bicycle Training and Safety:
CHP Safety Training Course
The California Highway Patrol (CHP) has created a free online electric bicycle safety course to help protect commuters and recreational riders.
California E-Bike Incentive Project Training Course
The California E-Bike Incentive Project is a partnership between California Air Resources Board and Pedal Ahead, a non-profit organization. Their video-based training covers e-bike equipment as well as safe riding.