Washington e-bike regulations
Washington law (RCW 46.04.169) defines electric-assisted bicycles in three classes (Class 1: pedal-assist only, motor cuts off at 20 mph; Class 2: throttle-assisted, motor cuts off at 20 mph; Class 3: pedal-assist, motor cuts off at 28 mph, requires speedometer), each limited to a 750-watt motor. RCW 46.61.710 governs general operation: e-bike riders are generally treated like bicyclists, are not required to have a driver's license, registration, or insurance, must be at least 16 for Class 3, and local jurisdictions may regulate or restrict use of Class 1/2/3 e-bikes on non-highway trails and paths. In 2026 the legislature enacted SB 6110 (Chapter 159, Laws of 2026) amending RCW 46.04.169 to address electric-assisted bicycles and electric motorcycles, with most provisions effective June 11, 2026 and section 3 effective March 23, 2026; a companion bill HB 2374 addressed similar subject matter in the House.
Overview
Washington statutes
Electric-assisted bicycle—Class 1, Class 2, Class 3 definitions
RCW 46.04.169
Defines 'electric-assisted bicycle' as a two- or three-wheeled bicycle with saddle, operative pedals, and an electric motor of no more than 750 watts. Establishes Class 1 (motor engages only while pedaling, ceases assist at 20 mph), Class 2 (may be propelled solely by motor/throttle, ceases assist at 20 mph), and Class 3 (pedal-assist only, ceases assist at 28 mph, equipped with speedometer). Note: statute is subject to change in 2026 per Senate Bill 6110 (Chapter 159, Laws of 2026).
Washington State Legislature - RCWMopeds, EPAMDs, motorized foot scooters, personal delivery devices, electric-assisted bicycles—General requirements and operation
RCW 46.61.710
Sets general operating requirements for mopeds and electric-assisted bicycles, including that Class 1 and Class 2 e-bikes are permitted wherever traditional bicycles are allowed, Class 3 e-bike riders must be at least 16 years old and, if under 18, must wear a helmet; local authorities retain authority to further regulate or restrict the operation of electric-assisted bicycles, particularly Class 3, on paths, trails, and highways under their jurisdiction.
Washington State Legislature - RCWAddressing electric-assisted bicycles and electric motorcycles
SB 6110 (2025-26), Chapter 159, Laws of 2026
Amends RCW 46.04.169 relating to electric-assisted bicycles and electric motorcycles. Passed the Senate 44-4 and the House 91-3.
Washington State Legislature - Bill SummaryConcerning electric-assisted bicycle and electric motorcycle regulation
HB 2374 (2025-26)
Companion House bill amending RCW 46.04.169 and RCW 46.04.330 relating to electric-assisted bicycle and electric motorcycle regulation; adds a new section to chapter 46.04 RCW and includes an emergency clause.
Washington State Legislature - Bill Summary
Washington government links
Last verified 2026-09-08
Washington meeting calendar (state, county & city)
September 2026
Showing Tue, Sep 15, 2026 — tap the day again for the whole month
Board of County Commissioners Business Meeting
Thurston County Board of Commissioners · County commission
Tue, Sep 15, 2026 · 14:00
3000 Pacific Avenue SE, Room 110, Olympia, WA
Regular business meeting of the Thurston County Board of County Commissioners, with a public hearing typically at 3:30 PM.
Washington meetings on e-bikes
No e-bike meetings recorded for this area yet.
Federal delegation
Maria Cantwell
U.S. Senator • Democratic
Patty Murray
U.S. Senator • Democratic
State officials
Bob Ferguson
Governor
Bob Ferguson
Governor • Democratic
Julie Meredith
Secretary of Transportation (WSDOT)
Marko Liias
Chair, Senate Transportation Committee • Democratic