E-bikes and speed pedelecs in Vermont (2026)
Last reviewed: 9 October 2026
In short: Vermont has three electric bicycle classes with a motor of less than 750 W and assistance to 20 mph (classes 1 and 2) or 28 mph (class 3). An electric bicycle is not a motor vehicle and is exempt from registration, operator licence and financial responsibility requirements. An individual under 16 may not operate a class 3 electric bicycle.
| 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 | An individual under 16 years of age may not operate a class 3 electric bicycle. An individual under 16 may ride as a passenger on a class 3 electric bicycle designed to accommodate a passenger. [2] |
| HelmetRiding on public roads | ⚠ Not yet verified |
| LicenceRiding on public roads | Electric bicycles and their operators are exempt from operator licence requirements. [2] |
| Plate and insuranceRiding on public roads | Electric bicycles and their operators are exempt from motor vehicle registration, inspection, certificate of title and financial responsibility requirements. [2] |
| Cycle pathsRiding on public roads | May be ridden in places where bicycles are allowed, including highways, bicycle lanes and bicycle or multiuse paths. A municipality, local authority or State agency may prohibit class 1 and class 2 on a path after notice and hearing if needed for safety or legal compliance, and may prohibit class 3 on a path. [2] |
| E-bike classesRiding on public roads | Three classes: class 1 (pedal assist) and class 2 (motor can propel alone) stop assisting at 20 mph, class 3 (pedal assist) at 28 mph. An electric bicycle is not a motor vehicle. [1] |
| Maximum motor powerRiding on public roads | The electric motor must be less than 750 watts. [1] |
Notes
- Section 4(46) defines the electric bicycle by a motor of less than 750 W and fully operable pedals. Classes 1 and 2 stop assisting at 20 mph and class 3 at 28 mph. Subdivision (46)(B) says an electric bicycle is not a motor vehicle.
- Section 1136a contains no helmet duty. Other sections of title 23 were not read.
- Section 1136a(b) exempts electric bicycles and their operators from motor vehicle registration, inspection and title requirements, operator licence requirements, financial responsibility requirements and all-terrain vehicle requirements.
Sources
- Vermont General Assembly: 23 V.S.A. section 4, Definitions (Vermont Statutes Online; Internet Archive snapshot of 8 November 2025) (consulted 9 October 2026) · all sources
- Vermont General Assembly: 23 V.S.A. section 1136a, Electric bicycles (Vermont Statutes Online; Internet Archive snapshot of 9 February 2026) (consulted 9 October 2026) · all sources
Vermont and neighbouring states
| State | Legal class | Minimum age | Helmet | Licence | Plate and insurance | Cycle paths |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Vermont | Three classes | Class 3: 16 | ⚠ Not yet verified | Exempt | Exempt | Allowed where bicycles are |
| Massachusetts | Class 1 and 2 (bicycle) | ⚠ Not yet verified | 16 and under (bicycle rule) | Not a motor vehicle | Not a motor vehicle | ⚠ Not yet verified |
| New Hampshire | Class 1, 2, 3 (bicycle) | 16+ for Class 3 | Class 3: under 18 | Not required | Not required | Allowed, Class 3 limited |
| New York | Class 1, 2, 3 (bicycle) | 16 years | Class 3: helmet for all riders; local rules | Not required | Not a motor vehicle | Roads; no sidewalks |
More rules in Vermont
- CannabisPossession for personal use: Legal for adults 21+ · Growing at home: Up to 2 mature, 4 immature plants
- Car speed limitsBuilt-up areas: 50 mph max; local 25 mph or more · Outside built-up areas (single carriageway): 50 mph
- Minimum age for a car driving licenceMinimum age for a car licence: 16 (junior operator's licence) · Earliest age to drive a car supervised: 15 (learner's permit)
- FireworksConsumers may buy and use category F2 fireworks: No (sparklers excluded)
- Knives and pepper sprayFolding pocket knives: Offence only with intent to injure
- Statutory minimum wageNational statutory minimum wage: Yes (state law) · Current adult minimum wage (gross): $14.42 per hour
- Using a mobile phone while drivingHolding a phone while driving banned: Banned · 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
Related pages
General information, not legal advice. Rules change: check the official source before you fly or ride.