Do you need a license for an e-bike in NYC

Let's discuss e-bike regulations.

Do you need a license to ride an e-bike in NYC?

The short answer is no. You do not need a driver’s license to ride an electric bike in New York City.

Unlike mopeds, which require a driver’s license, e-bikes can be operated without one.

Here are some answers to more common legal questions about riding an e-bike in NYC.

• What qualifies as an e-bike in NYC?

According to the NYC Department of Motor Vehicles, an e-bike is a bicycle with electric assist that is no more than thirty-six inches wide, has an electric motor of less than seven hundred fifty watts, and is equipped with operable pedals.

• Do I need to register my e-bike with the DMV?

No. E-bikes do not qualify for registration with the DMV.

The only reason you might need to visit the DMV to ride an e-bike is to get a valid US ID to rent an e-bike from a rental company like Whizz.
This ID does not need to be a driver’s license. It can be a non-driver ID card.

• Do I need insurance to ride an e-bike in NYC?

No. You do not need insurance to ride an e-bike in NYC, although it is highly recommended.

What’s the difference between an e-bike and a e-moped?

​​​​​​​An e-moped has a step-through frame and an electric engine that can reach a speed of up to 40 mph. An e-bike has a traditional bike frame and an electric motor that can reach a speed of up to 25 mph.

All e-bikes have pedals and can be pedaled manually, whereas most modern e-mopeds have done away with pedals altogether (despite their name, which comes from the words “motor” and “pedal”).

Unlike an e-bike, an e-moped is considered a motorized vehicle and is usually registered as such.

In NYC, an e-moped requires a driver's license, registration with the DMV, a license plate, and a VIN (Vehicle Identification Number). An e-bike does not require any of these.

An e-moped can not be ridden in bike lanes and must remain in vehicle lanes, whereas an e-bike can be ridden in bike lanes and vehicle lanes.

What else should I know about riding an e-bike in NYC?

• Do not ride an e-bike on a sidewalk.
• Always yield to pedestrians when riding an e-bike.
• Always wear a helmet when riding an e-bike, as e-bike accidents can be fatal. Consider wearing biking gloves, long sleeves, and pants instead of shorts for added protection against injury.
• You can ride an e-bike on highways with a posted speed limit of 30 mph or less.
• E-bike theft is common in NYC. Invest in a sturdy U-lock and always lock your e-bike when leaving it unattended. Buy insurance or enroll in a protection plan. Consider storing your e-bike indoors between rides.

Where can I rent or buy an e-bike with no Social Security Number (SSN)?

At Whizz, we offer affordable plans to rent or buy an e-bike with no Social Security Number required.
Our plans include options to protect you from theft and give you access to affordable repairs. We also throw in all the free gear and accessories you need, like a helmet and a durable U-lock.

Interested in buying or renting an e-bike from Whizz?