E-bike requirements
Last updated on June 10, 2025
E-bikes, or motor-assisted cycles, must meet certain requirements to be legal and allowed for use on public roads in B.C.
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What are e-bikes?
E-bikes (defined by the law as “motor assisted cycles”) are power-assisted cycles that have a motor to help propel the device.
E-bikes must meet certain requirements to be legal for use on public roads in B.C. You do not need a driver’s license or insurance to operate an e-bike in B.C., but you must be of a minimum age depending on the class of e-bike.
The Motor Assisted Cycle (E-Bike) Regulation sets rules you must follow to use an e-bike.
E-bikes must have:
- Pedals (or hand cranks) that can propel the e-bike. The pedal or hand crank must be useable when the motor is engaged and propelling the e-bike
- An electric motor with a certain maximum power output, depending on the class of e-bike. E-bikes cannot have a combustion engine
- Safety features that stop the motor propelling the e-bike, e.g. when braking, not pedaling, or not applying the throttle
- Motors and batteries that are securely fastened to the e-bike. Electrical terminals must be insulated and covered
- Two or three wheels of at least 350mm in diameter
- A braking system that can quickly bring the e-bike to a stop
| Standard e-bike | Light e-bike | |
|---|---|---|
| Minimum rider age | 16 | 14 |
| Maximum motor-assisted speed | 32 km/h | 25 km/h |
| Maximum continuous power output* | 500W | 250W |
| Throttle assist | Yes | No |
* Maximum continuous power (nominal power) is the power output that a motor can sustain for long periods of time without overheating.
A motorized cycle that does not meet all the requirements of an e-bike (motor assisted cycle):
- May be illegal for use on public roads, or
- May require a license, registration, and insurance to operate
Not sure if a device is legal for public road use? Find out which devices are legal for road use in B.C.
Riding your e-bike safely
Cyclists (including e-bike riders) must generally follow the same road rules as drivers. Cyclists must obey traffic signs and lights and yield to pedestrians. Learn more about bike and e-bike rules and safety.
You must be 14 years or older to ride a light e-bike and 16 years or older to ride a standard e-bike. Parents or guardians of children below the minimum age must not knowingly let them ride an e-bike.
Be of minimum age
You must be 14 years or older to ride a light e-bike and 16 years or older to ride a standard e-bike. Parents or guardians of children below the minimum age must not knowingly let them ride an e-bike.
Follow passenger rules
You must not tow or carry a passenger unless your e-bike is designed and equipped for it. A rider under 16 must not tow or carry any passengers on a light e-bike, even if it designed to do so.
These rules are the law. You may get a $109 fine, have your e-bike impounded or face other penalties of up to $2,000.
New to e-biking?
Start by reading the user manual and practice riding in a controlled environment to learn how to safely operate your e-bike. If you are renting, follow the instructions provided by the rental company.
Know the rules where you live
Some municipalities set their own rules for where you can ride a cycle and e-bike, including on shared use paths. Check with your municipality to know what rules apply to you.
Connect with public transit
Some transit providers (TransLink, BC Transit) may carry your e-bike. Check with your transit provider for any size or weight restrictions.
Vulnerable road users
Cyclists (including e-bike riders) have protections under B.C.’s vulnerable road user laws. These laws require drivers to always drive safely around cyclists and give space when passing.