New Year, New Rules for E-Bikes
Starting January 1, 2026, California’s latest micromobility laws will take effect. These updates focus on safety, enforcement, and accountability—especially when it comes to young riders.
As e-bikes and lightweight electric vehicles grow more popular across the state, lawmakers are tightening the rules to keep roads safer for everyone.
Parents Can Be Cited for Minors’ E-Bike Offenses
One of the most talked-about updates? Parents can now be held responsible for certain violations committed by their children while riding e-bikes.
If a minor breaks the law—whether it’s reckless riding, traffic violations, or lack of safety gear—authorities may issue the citation to the rider or the parent, depending on the situation.
There’s a learning curve, though. Minors caught without helmets can have their fines waived by completing a California Highway Patrol–approved safety course, giving families a chance to learn instead of just pay.
New Visibility Requirements for E-Bikes
Assembly Bill 544 brings a new rule that affects every e-bike rider. All electric bikes must now have a red rear light or reflector, whether solid or flashing, that includes a built-in reflector.
This applies to all riding conditions, not just at night. Day or night, the rear of your bike needs to be visible. Most new e-bikes already meet this standard, but riders of older models should double-check their gear.
Tighter Rules for Off-Road “E-Motos”
California is also cracking down on electric off-road bikes like Sur Rons and Talarias, now commonly known as e-motos.
These vehicles must now be registered with the DMV and tagged with a red or green off-highway sticker, based on their emissions and use.
Even more important, they’re now prohibited from riding on streets, sidewalks, or walkways. Only designated off-highway areas are legal, and all existing OHV rules apply.
