eBike Laws in the State of Georgia

WHAT IS AN EBIKE?

BRAG defers to Georgia state laws when it comes to defining and allowing eBikes access to roads & paths. The state of Georgia defines electric bicycles as any type of bicycle or tricycle equipped with fully operable pedals, that have a seat or saddle for the rider, and have an electric motor of less than 750 watts. Electric bikes are placed into one of three categories:

  1. Class 1 defines E-bikes as ones equipped with a motor that only provides assistance when the rider is pedaling and that turns off when the bicycle reaches 20 mph. 
  2. Class 2 defines E-bikes as ones with a motor that can power the bicycle even when the rider is not pedaling and ceases to provide propulsion when the E-bike reaches a speed of 20 mph.
  3. Class 3 defines E-bikes as those equipped with a motor that only provides assistance when the rider is pedaling but stops when the bicycle reaches 28 mph.

DO YOU NEED A DRIVER’S LICENSE TO OPERATE AN E-BIKE IN GEORGIA?

In Georgia, an individual does not need any special type of driver’s license to operate an E-bike. 

WHAT ARE GEORGIA’S E-BIKE LAWS?

Electric bicycles do not have to be registered, and owners do not have to carry insurance to operate the E-bike. However, the power output of the motor of an E-bike in Georgia cannot exceed 750 watts.

There is an age restriction concerning E-bikes, but only ones that are considered Class 3. A Class 3 E-bike can only be operated by an individual 15 years of age or older. Additionally, any person who operates a Class 3 E-bike in Georgia must wear a helmet when doing so. All cyclists & bicycle passengers are required to wear helmets at any BRAG event.

Electric bicycles are allowed to ride on the roadway, but they must be as far to the right as practical, just like regular bicycles. Additionally, electric bicycles are allowed onto marked bike paths. All local ordinances must be obeyed, including any local ordinances specifically restricting E-bike usage.

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