Confused about buying your first electric bike? Learn About Licensing (2023)
In 2023, you can find an electric bike for every type of rider. From low-powered electric scooters to electric superbikes, there’s something for everyone.
However, choosing what type of license you’ll need when buying your first electric bike can be confusing. So, we’re answering all the frequently asked questions we’ve received about electric bike licensing.
Do you need a license to ride an electric bike?
Yes, there is a need. You need a motorcycle license to ride any electric bike. However, the same does not apply to electric bikes.
Electric bikes do not require a license. However, laws regarding them may vary from state to state.
What is the difference between e-bikes and electric motorcycles?
Electric bikes operate like a traditional push bike, with an electric motor giving you the support. With electric motorcycles, there is no pedaling. All movement is controlled by the throttle.
While you don’t need a special license for e-bikes, a motorcycle license allows you to drive a two-wheeled motorcycle. However, it does not include a car, tricycle, or any other type of vehicle. Therefore, your car license does not give you the legal right to ride a motorcycle.
What kind of license do you need for an electric bike?
There are two classes of motorcycle licenses in the states, Class M1 and Class M2. The type of license you need depends on the specification and type of bike you have.
How are they different? Let’s take a look:
Class M1 License:
This allows you to ride any type of electric motorcycle. This includes electric motorcycles, electric mopeds and electric scooters with a horsepower equivalent of more than 150cc.
Class M2 License:
This is more limited. A Class M2 license allows you to ride a moped (pedal bike) or any motorized bike that does not exceed 30 mph.
Class C License:
This license is usually for cars. However, if your electric bike is fitted with a sidecar or has three wheels, you will need a Class C licence.
With this in mind, we recommend obtaining a Class M1 license. It allows you to ride any type of electric bike, including all Demon bikes!
Electric Motorcycle Licensing: Differences by States (2023)
Requirements for obtaining an electric motorcycle license vary slightly from state to state.
For example, in California, from the age of 17 years and 6 months, you cannot ride at night or with passengers even after obtaining a motorcycle license. Also, until age 21 or older, you cannot apply for an M1 or M2 license without completing an approved motorcycle safety training program.
Whether you’re in Texas, Illinois, Florida, or anywhere else, these little traits and differences are common across the country. In addition, motorcycle licensing laws are set at the state level. Therefore, after knowing this it is important to check the different requirements in your state.
You can find these sources on your local DMV’s website.
Conclusion:
You need a license, registration and insurance
Many people ask us if electric motorcycles are legal.
While we can’t comment on any of your ground-up Frankenstein creations, all Demon motorcycles are street-legal. The only thing that makes your ride illegal is not having a license, registration or insurance.
So, if you want to enjoy the electric bike of the future, make sure you have all these things!