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Public Safety Message: New State Laws for E-Bikes

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A close-up of an official document on a wooden desk next to bicycle keys and safety glasses, symbolizing new state regulations for e-bikes in Utah. No people or text are visible.
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July 1, 2026 Utah lawmakers recently approved H.B. 381, the E-Mobility Amendments bill, which updates state regulations for e-bikes, scooters, and other electric mobility devices. The legislation is designed to simplify existing rules, improve safety, and provide greater clarity

July 1, 2026

Utah lawmakers recently approved H.B. 381, the E-Mobility Amendments bill, which updates state regulations for e-bikes, scooters, and other electric mobility devices. The legislation is designed to simplify existing rules, improve safety, and provide greater clarity for riders and families.

One of the primary goals of the new law is to encourage safe and independent transportation for young riders. Under the updated regulations, youth ages 8 to 15 may ride eligible e-bikes and other approved mobility devices independently after completing a new safety training program that is being developed by the state. This new training will be similar to the current ATV training. This change removes the requirement for ongoing parental supervision once training has been successfully completed.

The legislation also gives local communities greater control over where mobility devices may be used. Cities and counties can establish rules for sidewalks, trails, pathways, parks, and other public areas to best meet local needs and safety concerns.

The new law distinguishes electric motorcycles from e-bikes and scooters. A vehicle is considered an electric motorcycle if it is powered by an electric motor exceeding 750 watts or is capable of traveling faster than 20 miles per hour using motor power alone.

The bill also creates a new category known as a “High-Powered Electric Device.” This classification applies to certain scooters, modified e-bikes, and other mobility devices capable of traveling more than 20 miles per hour that do not meet the definition of an e-bike or electric motorcycle.

For standard e-bikes and most electric scooters, riders ages 16 and older may operate these devices independently. Riders under age 21 are required to wear a helmet.

High-powered electric devices generally require operators to be at least 16 years old and possess a valid driver license.

State officials note that the legislation focuses on highway and roadway use and does not change existing insurance requirements or regulations governing off-highway recreational use.

As electric mobility devices continue to grow in popularity, these updates aim to provide clearer rules, improve rider safety, and help communities adapt to evolving transportation options.

Press / Media Contact:

pio@rivertonutah.gov

801-208-3134

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