The popularity of electric bikes is exploding, which gets us to the question of the law surrounding the use of electric bikes. The most important question is, do you need a license for an electric bike?
At Electrified e-bikes, we are making it easier than ever to enjoy what Florida has to offer with a wide selection of e-bikes to choose from. Still, our customers must understand Florida law surrounding the use of e-bikes.
The Key Points of Florida Law Regarding E-bike Use
E-Bike Classification
An electric bike (e-bike) is defined as a bicycle with an electric motor powered only when the rider pedals.
The motor’s maximum output is 750 watts, with a top speed of 20 miles per hour when the motor is engaged.
Florida Law Statutes
E-bikes are considered bicycles under Florida law, so riders must follow the same guidelines as a person riding a regular bicycle. The minimum age to ride an e-bike in Florida is 16.
You do not need a licensefor an electric bike in Florida. You also don’t need to register, license, or follow any insurance requirements for your e-bike in Florida.
Electric bikes can be ridden on bike paths, multi-use paths, sidewalks, and streets, but they are only allowed on the shoulder of a highway if there is a designated bike path.
E-bikes are not allowed on sidewalks in designated pedestrian areas, and you must obey all traffic laws, including stop signs and red lights.
Many state parks do not allow e-bikes, so it is important to check ahead to determine if they are allowed in the state park you are traveling to.
Helmets are not required, but at Electrified E-bikes, we want our customers to be safe, so we do recommend that you consider wearing a helmet for safety purposes.
Additional Safety Tips
– Obey all traffic laws.
– Pay attention to your surroundings and yield to all pedestrians.
– Do not ride on a sidewalk if a designated bike lane is available.
– Use the same rule as driving a motor vehicle: do not ride an e-bike under the influence of
drugs or alcohol.
– Obey the speed limit and follow the law to ensure the safety of everyone on the road.
It is important to note that the Federal government hasn’t yet established a uniform set of regulations for electric bikes, so it is essential to know your specific state’s laws surrounding the use of electric bikes.
The following states have determined that you need a license for an electric bike: Alabama, Alaska, Connecticut, Hawaii, Louisiana, Massachusetts, Missouri, New Jersey, New Mexico, North Dakota, and Wisconsin.
These states classify e-bikes as motor vehicles and require a valid driver’s license or similar registration to operate an e-bike. If you’re under 16, this rule doesn’t apply in some states.
Laws are constantly changing surrounding the use of e-bikes, so be sure to stay in touch with local laws.
At Electrified, we have an outstanding selection of e-bikes from respected brands; contact our E-bike experts to help you find the perfect bike.
