Electric Bicycle and Ebike Regulations in the New England States

Connecticut, Rhode Island, Maine, New Hampshire, Vermont

Commonwealth of Massachusetts

Electric Bicycle and Ebike Regulations in Massachusetts
As long as the electric bicycles conform with the specifications for electric bicycles in accordance with U.S. Public Law 107-319 they may be operated in Massachusetts anywhere a bicycle may be operated. The rider does not need a license or learner's permit to operate one. Operators sixteen years of age or younger must wear a helmet when riding a bicycle. (Courtesy of Massachusetts RMV)

The operation of electric bicycles is subject to the same as those which govern the operation of any other kind of bicycle.  Insurance is not required.  Registration as a bicycle is only required in accordance with local laws and ordinances.  For additional information click here.

State of Maine

Motorized Bicycle/Tricycle Regulations in Maine.

A motorized bicycle/tricycle is a vehicle that has a motor attached to a wheel and is no more than 1.5 brake horsepower and has a cylinder capacity capable of propelling the vehicle unassisted at a speed of 25 m.p.h. or less on a level road surface. A motorized bicycle/tricycle may have foot pedals.

An operator's license or a motorcycle, motor-driven cycle or moped endorsement or restriction is required.

Registration is not required.

The operator of a motorized bicycle/tricycle must ride to the right, except when making a left turn.

The vehicle may not be operated in excess of 20 m.p.h.

An operator may not ride other than astride a regular and permanently attached seat.

May not be used to carry more persons than the number for which it is designed.

A person may not attach the vehicle to a moving vehicle on a public way.

Operator may travel on a paved shoulder.

A municipality may make other provisions for the location of motorized bicycle/tricycle traffic.

Operator of a motorized bicycle/tricycle must obey all other traffic laws.

State of Rhode Island

Electric Bicycle and Ebike Regulations in Rhode Island
As long as the electric bicycles conform with the specifications for electric bicycles in U.S. Public Law 107-319 they may be operated in Rhode Island anywhere a bicycle may be operated. The rider does not need a license or learner's permit to operate one. Operators sixteen years of age or younger must wear a helmet when riding a bicycle. (Courtesy of Rhode Island DMV, Enforcement Unit). 

The operation of electric bicycles is subject to the same as those which govern the operation of any other kind of bicycle.  Insurance is not required.  Registration as a bicycle is only required in accordance with local laws and ordinances.  For additional information and bicycle events in Rhode Island click here.

State of Vermont

Electric Bicycle and Ebike Regulations in Vermont

LAW ENFORCEMENT BULLETIN #03-06 issued on April 8, 2003 emphatically states that "anyone riding a low speed electric bicycle would be afforded the same rights and responsibilities of any bicyclists."

Previously, this type of vehicle would have been classified as a moped under Vermont statute, and would have needed to be registered and inspected, and the operator would require a license.  The federal law supersedes state statute.

(Click here for Official Bulletin)