09/23/2025
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS REGARDING E-BIKES & SCOOTERS
Due to confusion regarding the legality of some commonly used E-bikes and scooters, we at CPPD would like to take the opportunity to educate parents and help clarify what is allowed under Oregon law. E-bikes and scooters can be a fun, efficient, and environmentally friendly way to get around. But just like cars, bicycles, and other vehicles, there are important rules that must be followed to keep everyone safe on the road. By working together, we can ensure that students are riding legally and safely, while also protecting them from unnecessary risks.
🚴QUESTION: Can my child ride their E-bike or electrically powered scooter to school?
🚴♀️ANSWER: The state of Oregon has laws regarding E-bikes, scooters, and how the law applies to kids. In general, juveniles must be 16 years old to ride an E-bike or powered scooter on public streets. Additionally, any child 16 or younger must wear a helmet when riding any type of bike or scooter on a public street.
🚴Q: My child’s E-bike can only go 25mph and has pedals; can they ride it on a public street?
🚴♀️A: The age limit of 16 applies to ALL E-bikes, regardless of speed capability. The determining factor is whether it has a motor. If they are 16 or older, they can ride it on a public street.
🚴Q: My child is 16 and they have an E-bike that can achieve 35 mph. Can they ride it to school?
🚴♀️A: Since the E-bike can exceed 30 mph it is considered a motorcycle under Oregon law. They must have a driver’s license and a motorcycle endorsement. Mopeds that can achieve 30 mph on level ground require a driver’s license.
🚴Q: I think it’s safe for my 12 year old to ride an E-bike that is capable of 35 mph. What can happen if I let them ride it on a public street?
🚴♀️A: You as a parent could be cited for allowing operation of a motorized vehicle by a non-licensed driver. Your child could be cited for operating a motor vehicle without a license. You could also be held civilly liable for any damage that might occur as a result of them being involved in an accident. Remember, Oregon law categorizes E-bikes that can exceed 30 mph as motorcycles that require a driver’s license along with a motorcycle endorsement. Private property is the only place it is legal for your child under 16 to operate their E-bike.
🚴Q: Why do the Police care if my 12 year old child rides an E-bike on public streets? I have to go to work and my child doesn’t want to ride the bus.
🚴♀️A: The Police care because we care about everyone’s safety on the road, especially the safety of kids. We are responsible for enforcing the laws that are designed to keep kids safe. We are also the ones who respond to accidents on the roads. Our main goal is safety and when considering the potential for injury or death when an E-bike going 25-50 mph is struck by a car or strikes a pedestrian or a fixed object, following the law will cut down on the potential for injuries and help keep kids safe. Additionally, regular pedal driven bikes are not affected by these laws and riding a bike is a healthy form of exercise. Please remind your child to ride safely, follow traffic laws and to wear their helmet.
🚴Q: Where can I find the information on what kind of bike or scooter my child can use on a public street?
🚴♀️A: The Oregon DMV has a website with a very helpful chart that can help answer your questions:https://www.oregon.gov/odot/forms/dmv/6619.pdf
Remember, if you have questions please refer to the Oregon DMV website or contact us at the Central Point Police Department and we will do our best to answer your questions. Stay safe out there!