E-bikes and speed pedelecs in Utah (2026)
Last reviewed: 9 October 2026
In short: Utah defines electric assisted bicycles in classes 1, 2 and 3 with a motor of up to 750 W and assistance to 20 mph (classes 1 and 2) or 28 mph (class 3). A person under 16 may not operate a class 3 machine, and riders under 14 need parental supervision. Local authorities and state agencies may restrict e-bikes on sidewalks, paths and trails. Different age rules take effect on 5 May 2027.
| Rule | What applies |
|---|---|
| Legal classRiding on public roads | Own e-bike class system (class 1, 2 or 3) [1] |
| Assistance stops atRiding on public roads | 20 mph [1] |
| Minimum ageRiding on public roads | No person under 16 may operate a class 3 electric assisted bicycle. A person under 14 may not operate any electric assisted bicycle with the motor engaged on public property, a highway, path or sidewalk unless under the direct supervision of a parent or guardian. A person under 8 may not do so at all. [2] |
| HelmetRiding on public roads | ⚠ Not yet verified |
| LicenceRiding on public roads | An electric assisted bicycle is subject to the Traffic Code provisions for a bicycle and is defined separately from a moped, motor assisted scooter and motorcycle. [2] |
| Plate and insuranceRiding on public roads | An electric assisted bicycle is subject to the Traffic Code provisions for a bicycle and is defined separately from a moped, motor assisted scooter and motorcycle. [2] |
| Cycle pathsRiding on public roads | May be operated on a path or trail designated for the use of a bicycle. A local authority or state agency may regulate or restrict the use of an electric assisted bicycle, or a class of it, on a sidewalk, path or trail. [2] |
| E-bike classesRiding on public roads | Classes 1 (pedal assist) and 2 (motor can propel alone) stop assisting at 20 mph, class 3 (pedal assist) at 28 mph and must have a speedometer. A programmable e-bike may switch between classes if it meets each class in that mode. [1] |
| Maximum motor powerRiding on public roads | Power output of not more than 750 watts. A vehicle with a continuous rated motor power of more than 750 watts is not an electric assisted bicycle. [1] |
| Riding on the pavement (sidewalk)Riding on public roads | Left to local authorities and state agencies, which may regulate or restrict e-bikes, or a specific class, on sidewalks. Riders under 14 need parental supervision with the motor on (including on sidewalks); under 8 may not use the motor. [2] |
Notes
- Section 41-6a-102(21) defines the electric assisted bicycle by a motor of not more than 750 W and fully operable pedals, in class 1, class 2, class 3 or programmable form. Classes 1 and 2 stop assisting at 20 mph and class 3 at 28 mph.
- Chapter 334 (2026 General Session) replaces these age rules from 5 May 2027: age 8 to 15 with supervision or a personal electric vehicle safety certificate on a highway, 16 or older without supervision. The current version applies until then.
- Section 41-6a-1115.5 contains no helmet duty. Other sections were not read.
- Section 41-6a-102(21)(b) says an electric assisted bicycle does not include a moped, motor assisted scooter, electric motorcycle or motorcycle.
Sources
- Utah Legislature: Utah Code Title 41, Chapter 6a, Section 102, Definitions (version effective 6 May 2026) (consulted 9 October 2026) · all sources
- Utah Legislature: Utah Code Title 41, Chapter 6a, Section 1115.5, Electric assisted bicycles -- Restrictions -- Penalties (version effective 1 May 2024) (consulted 9 October 2026) · all sources
Utah and neighbouring states
| State | Legal class | Minimum age | Helmet | Licence | Plate and insurance | Cycle paths |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Utah | Three classes | Class 3: 16; under 14 supervised | ⚠ Not yet verified | Bicycle rules | Bicycle rules | Allowed unless restricted |
| Arizona | Class 1-3, bicycle rules | ⚠ Not yet verified | ⚠ Not yet verified | None | Not required | Class 3 restricted |
| Colorado | Class 1-3, bicycle rules | Class 3: 16 | Class 3, under 18 | None | No registration | Class 3 restricted |
| Idaho | Class 1-3, bicycle rules | ⚠ Not yet verified | ⚠ Not yet verified | None | Not required | Where bikes are allowed |
| Nevada | Class 1, 2, 3 (bicycle) | ⚠ Not yet verified | ⚠ Not yet verified | Not a motor vehicle | Not registered | Allowed, local limits |
| Wyoming | Three classes | ⚠ Not yet verified | ⚠ Not yet verified | Exempt | Exempt | Local or agency rules apply |
More rules in Utah
- CannabisPossession for personal use: Criminal offence (misdemeanour) · Growing at home: Prohibited
- Car speed limitsBuilt-up areas: 25 mph · Outside built-up areas (single carriageway): 55 mph
- Minimum age for a car driving licenceMinimum age for a car licence: 16 (licence after 6 months on permit) · Earliest age to drive a car supervised: 15 (learner permit)
- FireworksConsumers may buy and use category F2 fireworks: Yes (no firecrackers, rockets)
- Knives and pepper sprayFolding pocket knives: Concealed-carry offence covers firearms · Locking or one-handed knives: No separate rule
- Statutory minimum wageNational statutory minimum wage: Yes (state law) · Current adult minimum wage (gross): $7.25 per hour
- Using a mobile phone while drivingHolding a phone while driving banned: No (calls allowed) · Hands-free use: Allowed
- Seat belts and child seatsSeat belt compulsory in front seats: Yes · Seat belt compulsory in rear seats: Yes
- Tobacco and nicotine age limitsMinimum age to buy tobacco: 21 · Minimum age to buy e-cigarettes: 21
- Drinking age and alcohol salesMinimum age to buy beer and wine: 21 · Minimum age to buy spirits: 21
- Drink-driving limitsBlood alcohol limit for ordinary drivers: 0.05% · Lower limit for novice or young drivers: Any alcohol (under 21)
Related pages
General information, not legal advice. Rules change: check the official source before you fly or ride.