Riding an electric bike - The Rules
Read the Rules on the link below
You can ride an electric bike if you’re 14 or over, as long as it is an ‘electrically assisted pedal cycle’ (EAPC).
You do not need a licence to ride an EAPC and it does not need to be registered, taxed or insured.
When your bike is an EAPC
An EAPC:
- must have pedals that can be used to propel it
- can have more than 2 wheels, for example a tricycle
It can be propelled up to 15.5mph without pedalling but only if it’s been approved.
Its electric motor:
- must have a ‘continuous rated power’ output of no more than 250 watts
- must not be able to propel the bike when it’s travelling at more than 15.5 miles per hour (mph)
What your EAPC must show
Markings on the bike must show both:
- the continuous rated power output
- the bike manufacturer
It must also show either:
- the battery’s voltage
- the maximum speed the motor can propel the bike
Where you can ride an EAPC
If your bike is an EAPC then you can ride it on cycle paths and anywhere else pedal bikes are allowed.
You cannot ride it on pavements.
When your bike is not an EAPC
If your electric bike does not meet the EAPC rules then it’s classed as a motorcycle or moped.
Your bike is not an EAPC if it:
- can be propelled at more than 15.5 miles per hour (mph) by the motor
- has a continuous rated power output higher than 250 watts
- does not have pedals that can propel it
If your bike is not an EAPC
If your electric bike is not an EAPC it must be registered and taxed.
You need to:
- get a valid driving licence to ride one
- wear a motorcycle helmet that meets British safety standards
- insure your vehicle
