Before purchasing an e-bike, consider whether your child has the riding skills, judgment, and maturity needed to safely operate one. E-bikes are heavier and faster than regular bicycles and require good handling skills.

Consider these questions:

  • Is your child confident riding a regular bicycle?
  • Does your child follow the rules of the road?
  • Does your child recognize and respond to traffic hazards?
  • Can your child safely control a heavier, faster bicycle?

The Consumer Product Safety Commission recommends that children under 12 do not operate an e-bike.

Download and print the Trainees for Child Injury Prevention Checklist: “Is Your Child Ready for an E-Bike?”

An electric bicycle (e-bike) is a bicycle equipped with an electric motor that assists while riding.

Black electric bicycle with blue accents

California recognizes three classes of e-bikes.

Class Types of E-bikes Top Speed Age Requirement
Class 1 Pedal-assist motor
(750 watt motor maximum)		 20 mph* No statewide minimum age
(Helmet required for under 18)
Class 2 Pedal-assist and throttle
(750 watt motor maximum)		 20 mph* No statewide minimum age
(Helmet required for under 18)
Class 3 Pedal-assist motor
(750 watt motor maximum)		 28 mph* 16 years old
(Helmet required for all ages)

*Any bike can reach higher speeds, especially when going downhill

Legal e-bikes have:

  • Fully operable pedals.
  • A motor no greater than 750 watts.
  • Motor assistance limited to:
  • 20 mph (Class 1 & Class 2)
  • 28 mph (Class 3, MUST be at least 16 and all ages MUST wear a helmet)

E-Motos:

E-motos are not e-bikes. E-motos are electric motorcycles that can reach speeds of 30-50+ mph. They are not intended for use by young riders. Legally, an e-moto rider must have a valid driver's license, insurance and registration when riding on streets.

Class 1 e-bikes are recommended as the starting point for youth riders. If your child is 12–15 years old and you determine that they are ready to ride an e-bike, choose a Class 1 e-bike.

Because the motor only assists while the rider is pedaling, Class 1 e-bikes operate more like a regular bicycle and can help new riders develop safe riding skills.

Class 2 e-bikes include a throttle that can propel the bicycle without pedaling. Using a throttle requires riders to manage acceleration differently and can be more challenging for new or inexperienced riders. If your child is 16 years old, start with a Class 1 or Class 2 e-bike.

Class 3 e-bikes provide pedal assistance up to 28 mph. Riders must be at least 16 years old and wear a helmet, regardless of age. Higher speeds require more advanced riding skills and experience.

Considerations:

  • Your child's age and maturity.
  • Riding experience and skills.
  • Where they will ride.

Source: American Academy of Pediatrics

When possible, purchase an e-bike from a trusted bicycle retailer.

Local bike shops can help:

  • Confirm the bicycle meets California's legal definition of an e-bike.
  • Demonstrate how to safely operate the e-bike.
  • Provide maintenance and repairs.

E-bikes require regular maintenance, so having access to a trusted retailer or bicycle shop that can provide service and repairs is an important safety consideration.

Use caution when purchasing online

Some products advertised as e-bikes may be electric motorcycles (e-motos) that do not meet California’s legal definition of an e-bike.

Before your child begins riding an e-bike, talk with them about safe riding habits, the rules of the road, and the responsibilities that come with riding. E-bike crashes can result in serious injuries and property damage. Depending on the circumstances, young riders and their parents or caregivers may also face legal or financial consequences.

Completing the Student & Parent E-Bike Safety Pledge together can help start these conversations, reinforce shared responsibility, and establish clear family expectations.

Download the Student & Parent E-Bike Safety Pledge (English)

Download the Student & Parent E-Bike Safety Pledge (Spanish)

Start out slowly and practice in low-traffic areas before riding on busier streets.
Supervise youth initially until they demonstrate safe and responsible riding habits.
Wear a properly fitted and securely buckled helmet every time you ride. (For added protection, consider a helmet that meets the NTA 8776 safety standard for e-bikes).
Check the e-bike before every ride (tires, brakes, chain, battery, and lights).
Be visible (use front and rear lights and wear bright or reflective clothing, especially at dawn and dusk).
Avoid distractions like cell phones and headphones.
Ride solo unless the bike is specifically built to carry passengers.
Ride in the same direction as traffic and use appropriate hand signals.
Follow the manufacturer's instructions for charging, storing, and maintaining the e-bike battery. Use only the recommended charger and battery.

Black electric scooter with blue accentsBlack electric skateboard with green wheels

E-Scooters

An electric scooter (e-scooter) is a two-wheeled device with handlebars, a floorboard to stand on, and an electric motor. Make sure your child has the skills and maturity to safely control an e-scooter, understands the rules of the road, and practices in a low-traffic area.

Requirements:

  • Must be at least 16 years old and have a learner’s permit or driver's license.
  • Maximum speed is 15 mph. Many e-scooters can go faster—be aware!
  • Riders under 18 must wear a helmet.
  • Only one person may ride at a time.

E-Skateboards

Electric skateboards (e-skateboards) are boards powered by an electric motor and capable of traveling up to 20 mph under motor power. E-skateboards require balance, braking skills, and the ability to respond quickly to hazards and traffic. Make sure your child practices in low-traffic areas.

Requirements:

  • Must be at least 16 years old.
  • All riders must wear a helmet.
  • Maximum riding speed is 15 mph.