News

New statewide rules for e-bikes, e-scooters and other electric transportation devices will take effect January 1, 2027.

Gov. JB Pritzker signed legislation August 26 establishing statewide standards for e-bikes, e-motos, electric scooters, electric skateboards, electric unicycles and other micromobility devices.

Here are some key changes residents should know:

E-bike age requirements: Riders of Class 1 and Class 2 e-bikes, which provide motor assistance up to 20 mph, must be at least 15 years old. Riders of Class 3 e-bikes, which provide assistance up to 28 mph, must be at least 16 years old.

High-speed e-bikes: Electric bicycles with motors of 750 watts or more that can travel faster than 28 mph will be regulated as motor-driven cycles. 
Riders will need a valid driver's license, and title, registration and 

insurance will be required. These vehicles will not be allowed on sidewalks, bike lanes or bike paths.

Electric scooters and other devices: Electric scooters, electric skateboards and electric unicycles are among the devices covered by the new law. Riders of these electric micromobility devices must be at least 16 years old. They will be prohibited on sidewalks and cannot be operated at speeds over 28 mph.

Where you can ride: Low-speed e-bikes will continue to be allowed on streets, bike lanes, bike paths and shared-use trails, but not sidewalks. Different rules apply to other types of electric devices.

The Illinois Department of Natural Resources and local park, forest preserve and conservation districts may establish rules for the paths and trails they manage, including speed limits and which devices are allowed.

The new law takes effect January 1, 2027.

Know before you ride: The Illinois Secretary of State provides a detailed guide to the new rules, including information about different types of e-bikes, e-scooters, e-motos and other devices.