E-Bike Laws · IN
Indiana
Verified from statute
3-class system
- Yes — fully operable pedals and motor no greater than 750 W; Class 1 pedal-assist to 20 mph, Class 2 throttle to 20 mph, Class 3 pedal-assist to 28 mph. Label (class, top assisted speed, wattage) required since Jan 1, 2020 and must be replaced after speed modifications. [IC 9-13-2-26.6 to -26.8, -49.2; IC 9-21-11-13.1(f)-(g)]
Age limits
- Under 15 may not operate a Class 3 (may ride as passenger on a passenger-designed Class 3). [IC 9-21-11-13.1(k)(3)-(4)]
Helmets
- Class 3 operators and passengers under 18 must wear a properly fitted, fastened CPSC- or ASTM-compliant bicycle helmet. [IC 9-21-11-13.1(k)(5)]
Where you can ride
- Allowed wherever bicycles may travel. Class 1/2 on any bike or multipurpose path unless a statute, rule or ordinance says otherwise. Class 3 only on paths within/next to a road or where authorized. Natural-surface nonmotorized trails may be regulated locally. [IC 9-21-11-13.1(j)-(l)]
- On DNR properties: all classes on roads open to vehicles; Class 1/2 on hard-surface trails; only Class 1 on natural-surface trails where bicycles are allowed. [Indiana DNR — E-bike rules]
License / registration / insurance
- Not a motor vehicle; no driver license, financial responsibility, title, registration or off-road vehicle rules apply. [IC 9-21-11-13.1(a), (d), (e)]
Speed & equipment
- Assist cutoff 20 mph (Class 1/2) or 28 mph (Class 3); motor 750 W or less. [IC 9-13-2-26.6 to -26.8, -49.2]
- Must meet 16 CFR 1512; motor must stop assisting when the rider stops pedaling or brakes. [IC 9-21-11-13.1(h)-(i)]
Cities in Indiana
No city rules verified yet. Cities and counties can add restrictions (sidewalks, paths, parks) — check your city's municipal code.
Official sources
- IC 9-21-11-13.1 (official 2026 code, IGA)
- IC 9-13-2 definitions (official 2026 code)
- Indiana DNR — E-bike rules
- Indiana statutes (official)
- Indiana DMV / motor vehicles (official)
- 15 U.S.C. §2085 (Cornell LII)
Last verified: Oct 2026. This is general information, not legal advice. Laws change and local rules vary — always confirm with the linked official source or local authorities.
Spot something outdated or wrong? Report an update (please include an official source link).