New Illinois Law Establishes Rules for E-Bikes, E-Motos and Other Micromobility Devices

Summary

Illinois has adopted new statewide rules for e-bikes, e-motos and other micromobility devices that take effect January 1, 2027.

Key Takeaways

• Riders must be at least 15 to operate Class 1 and Class 2 e-bikes and 16 to operate Class 3 e-bikes.

• Certain higher-speed devices capable of exceeding 28 mph may be subject to registration, insurance and licensing requirements.

• AAA encourages riders and parents to understand device classifications, choose appropriate safety equipment and review the E-Ride Safety Guide before riding.

As e-bikes, e-scooters and e-motos become more common across Illinois, AAA is encouraging riders and parents to understand the laws, recognize the risks and make informed decisions before heading out on a ride.

Governor JB Pritzker recently signed legislation establishing statewide standards for e-bikes, e-motos, e-scooters and other electric micromobility devices. The law creates age requirements, clarifies device classifications and establishes additional requirements for some higher-speed devices.

AAA says the new law highlights an important message for riders and families: not all devices are created equal.

"The most important thing riders and parents can understand is that speed matters," said Molly Hart, spokesperson from AAA – The Auto Club Group. "A device capable of traveling 15 mph presents different risks and responsibilities than one capable of traveling 30 mph or more. Understanding a device's capabilities, following the law and wearing the right protective equipment can help reduce the risk of serious injuries."

What Does Illinois’ New E-Bike and E-Moto Law Change?

Beginning January 1, 2027, Illinois will implement statewide standards for e-bikes, e-motos, e-scooters and other electric micromobility devices. The law maintains the state's three-class e-bike system while creating new requirements for certain higher-speed devices.

Key changes include:

• Riders must be at least 15 years old to operate Class 1 and Class 2 e-bikes, which are capable of speeds up to 20 mph.

• Riders must be at least 16 years old to operate a Class 3 e-bike, which can provide pedal-assisted speeds up to 28 mph.

• Certain higher-speed devices capable of exceeding 28 mph may be treated more like motor vehicles under state law.

• Operators of some higher-speed devices will be required to have a driver's license, registration and insurance.

• The law establishes clearer statewide rules governing where various micromobility devices can legally operate.

How Old Do You Need to Be to Ride an E-Bike in Illinois?

Under the new law:

• Riders must be at least 15 years old to operate Class 1 and Class 2 e-bikes.

• Riders must be at least 16 years old to operate Class 3 e-bikes.

AAA encourages parents to remember that meeting a minimum age requirement does not automatically mean a rider is ready to safely operate a device in traffic.

What's the Difference Between an E-Bike and an E-Moto?

An e-bike is designed to operate like a bicycle with electric assistance and is limited to specific speed thresholds, typically 20 mph or 28 mph. By comparison, some higher-powered devices commonly marketed as e-motos can exceed those speeds and deliver performance that more closely resembles a moped or motorcycle.

Although the devices may look similar, their speed, performance, and legal requirements can be very different. Some higher-speed models are subject to registration, insurance and licensing requirements under Illinois law.

AAA encourages consumers to focus less on marketing labels and more on a device's actual capabilities, including:

• The device's maximum speed

• Its top speed and how it’s classified under Illinois law

• Where it can legally operate

• Whether registration, insurance or licensing requirements apply

• The appropriate helmet and protective equipment for the device

"Two devices may look similar at first glance but perform very differently," said Hart. "Understanding how fast a device can travel and how it is classified can help riders make safer decisions and better understand their responsibilities."

Why Do Device Classifications Matter?

The new law addresses several issues identified in a recent AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety study examining the safety of e-bikes, e-scooters and other micromobility devices. The Foundation found that inconsistent device classifications and limited rider education can make it difficult for riders, parents and policymakers to understand the capabilities and risks associated with different types of micromobility devices.

The study identified several priorities for improving safety:

• Uniform device classifications

• Rider education

• Helmet safety

• Improved crash and injury data collection

• Better roadway and device visibility

"Clear classifications help riders understand what they're operating and where it belongs," said Hart. "But classifications alone aren't enough. Riders and parents also need to understand the capabilities of these devices, the risks associated with higher speeds and the importance of wearing the right safety gear."

Why are E-Bike and E-Scooter Injuries Rising?

As the popularity of e-bikes and e-scooters has increased, so have injuries involving these devices.

Recent data analyzed by Truveta found emergency department visits involving e-bike and e-scooter injuries among children and adolescents increased 7.5-fold between 2023 and May 2026. More than one-third of injured riders were diagnosed with head or neck injuries.

These findings reinforce recommendations from the AAA Foundation for Traffic Safety that prioritize rider education, helmet safety and better understanding of device capabilities and risks.

How Can Parents Determine Whether a Child Is Ready for an E-Bike?

AAA encourages families to ask three simple questions before every ride:

Is the rider ready?

• Can they recognize hazards?

• Do they understand traffic laws?

• Can they safely interact with traffic, pedestrians and other riders?

Is the device appropriate?

• What is its top speed?

• Has it been modified?

• Is it appropriate for the rider's age and experience level?

Is the rider protected?

• Are they wearing a properly fitted helmet?

• Are they visible to others?

• Do they have appropriate protective gear?

What Helmet Should Riders Wear?

Because electric-powered devices vary significantly in speed and performance, riders should choose a helmet appropriate for the type of device they operate. A helmet suitable for a lower-speed e-bike may not provide the same level of protection recommended for a higher-speed device.

AAA's E-Ride Safety Guide includes information on helmet standards and protective equipment recommendations for different types of electric-powered devices. Riders and parents should review the guide to ensure their equipment matches the speed and capabilities of the device being operated.

The AAA Foundation identifies helmet safety as a key strategy for reducing serious injuries among micromobility users.

AAA's Top Safety Tips for E-Bike, E-Moto and E-Scooter Riders

• Know your device's classification and capabilities.

• Wear a properly fitted helmet on every ride.

• Obey traffic laws and posted speed limits.

• Use lights and reflective gear in low-light conditions.

• Avoid distractions such as phones and headphones.

• Ride within your skill level.

• Slow down around pedestrians and crowded areas.

• Inspect your device before riding.

Where Can Riders Learn More About E-Bike and E-Moto Safety?

AAA's E-Ride Safety Guide helps riders and parents better understand:

• E-bikes, e-motos and e-scooters

• Device classifications

• Protective equipment

• Rider readiness

• Safe riding practices

• Strategies for reducing crash risk

To download the guide, visit sm.AAA/ERideReady