Most US states sort e-bikes into three classes. The class decides where you can ride, whether there's an age limit, and sometimes whether you need a helmet. Here's what each one means and how the states actually use it, from our review of all 50 state codes.
The three classes
States that use the system define them almost word for word the same way:
| Class | How the motor works | Motor stops helping at |
|---|---|---|
| Class 1 | Pedal assist only | 20 mph |
| Class 2 | Throttle, can move the bike without pedaling | 20 mph |
| Class 3 | Pedal assist only (many states require a speedometer) | 28 mph |
Most of these definitions also cap the motor at 750 watts and require working pedals. You can still pedal faster than the cutoff speed; the motor just stops adding power.
How many states use it
By our count, 42 states define e-bikes with Class 1, 2 and 3. The other eight (Alaska, Hawaii, Kentucky, Montana, New Jersey, North Carolina, Pennsylvania and South Carolina) either use a single e-bike definition or don't define e-bikes at all. Kentucky and Alaska have no e-bike definition in statute. Each state page has the details and the statute links.
Where the class matters
Paths and trails are where the class matters most. In 29 states, our records show the statute lets a city, county or land manager decide whether e-bikes can use paths and trails, and the rules often differ by class. Check the state page, then the sign at the trailhead.
Age: in 27 states the statute sets a minimum age for Class 3, usually 16. A few set it lower: Louisiana at 12, Michigan at 14, and Georgia, Indiana and Texas at 15. Some states set an age for all e-bikes instead.
Helmets: in 15 states the helmet rule names Class 3 specifically, sometimes only for younger riders. Many others apply their regular bicycle helmet law, which usually covers only children.
Labels
Many states with the class system require the manufacturer to put a label on the bike showing its class, top assisted speed and motor wattage, and bar changes that move it into a different class without updating the label. If you've unlocked a higher speed in the app, your bike may no longer be the class on the label.
Common questions
Is a Class 2 e-bike slower than a Class 3?
Yes, with the motor's help. Class 2 assistance stops at 20 mph and Class 3 at 28 mph in the states that use the three-class system. Class 2 adds a throttle, which Class 3 doesn't have.
Do I need a license to ride an e-bike?
Not in the states that use the three-class system, as long as the bike meets the definition; a few let towns require bicycle registration. New Jersey, which doesn't use the three classes, is the exception in our records: its 2026 law requires registration and a license even for its low-speed e-bikes. Check your state's page.
Can I ride my e-bike on the sidewalk?
It depends on the state and often the city. Several states bar it outright and many leave it to local rules. The sidewalk column on our laws table shows each state.
How we'd choose
If you'll ride on shared paths, buy a Class 1 or 2: they're allowed in more places. Pick Class 3 if most of your riding is on roads and you want to keep up with traffic, and check your state's age and helmet rules for it first. Browse e-bikes in the vehicle database.