California Electric Bicycle Laws
CVC = California Vehicle Code
eRider = Electrical bicycle rider
CVC 21200.5
Don’t be under the influence while riding an eBike
CVC 21201(d)
During darkness, eBikes need: 1. A white headlight that is visible from 300 feet 2. A red reflector or solid/flashing red light on the rear visible from 500 feet to the rear 3. A white or yellow reflector on each pedal, shoe, or ankle visible from the front and rear of the bicycle from a distance of 200 feet 4. A white or yellow reflector on each side forward of the center of the bicycle and a white or red reflector on each side to the rear of the center of the bicycle. These reflectors are not required if the bicycle has reflectorized front and back tires.
CVC 21950
eRiders are required to yield to pedestrians already in the roadway
CVC 23123.5
Don’t use your cell phone while riding
CVC 21650.1
eRiders are required to ride in the same direction of vehicular traffic (with the ‘flow of traffic’).
CVC 21204
All passengers need their own separate seat (single oversized seats don’t count)
CVC 21212(a)
eRiders & passengers under 18 are required to wear a helmet [VoltVerified and medical experts recommend ALL riders wear helmets]
CVC 21453
eRiders are required to stop for all red lights
CVC 22108
eRiders are required to use hand signals for at least 100 feet before their intended turn
CVC 22450(a)
eRiders need to come to a complete stop behind the “limit line” (white line) before proceeding.
CVC 27400
Don’t cover both ears with earbuds/headphones while riding (one ear okay)