Delaware State Electric Bike Laws

How does Delaware define what an electric bike is?

The state of Delaware defines ebikes as a bicycle or a tricycle equipped with with fully operable pedals, a seat or saddle for the use of the rider, and an electric motor of less than 750 watts. Ebikes are categorized into 3 categories:

Class 1 is for bikes equipped with a motor that provides assistance only when the rider is pedaling and it stops when the electric bicycle reaches the speed of 20 mph.
Class 2 is for bikes equipped with a motor that provides assistance when pedaling up to 20 mph. It is also equipped with a throttle that will power the bike up to 20 mph without pedaling.
Class 3 applies to those bikes equipped with a motor that provides assistance only when the rider is pedaling and it stops when the electric bicycle reaches the speed of 28 mph.

Do you need a license, insurance or registration in Delaware?

The state of Delaware does not have any licensing or registration requirements for ebikes.

What are the restrictions on Motor power or throttle in Delaware?

The power output of the motor of an ebike can't exceed 750w.

Are there any age restrictions to riding an electric bike in Delaware?

You need to be 16 or older to ride a class 3 ebike.

What are the laws around helmets in Delaware?

Any person under the age of 16 must wear a helmet. Any person riding a class 3 ebike must wear a helmet.

What are the rules for riding on the road in Delaware?

Ebikes may ride on any roadway except those that are posted to not allow bicycles. Ebikes may be ridden on bike paths and in state parks unless an exception is posted.

Additional notes:

Every bicycle when in use at nighttime shall needs to have a lamp on the front which shall emit a white light visible from a distance of at least 500 feet to the front.
Every bicycle needs to have a red reflector of a type approved by the Department which shall be visible for 600 feet to the rear.
Every bicycle when in use at nighttime shall need to have reflective material of sufficient size and reflectivity to be visible from both sides for 600 feet.
A bicycle or its rider should have lights or reflectors.
Every bicycle needs to have a brake or brakes which will enable its driver to stop the bicycle within 25 feet from a speed of 10 mph on dry, level, clean pavement.

Disclaimer:

Laws and policies can change at any time rendering the above information outdated and non-applicable. EVELO strongly encourages checking with City, County, State and other local agencies for the most recent laws governing the proper, legal use of ebikes in your area.