Electric bikes are growing more popular due to their ease of use. Therefore, the number of e-bikes on the road increases the need for regulations. Riding electric bikes is handy, but some people are still concerned about their legality. They still pose the question, "Do you need a licence for an electric bike?" The answer is no, but there are certain differences depending on the territory or city. This is due to differences in laws and traffic conditions in every state.
How Did the Electric Bike Laws Come About?
The e-bike laws in Australia are based on European standards that were established in 2012. They have advantages and disadvantages. Watts is an easy unit of measurement to use, but it does not account for the different power needs of cargo bikes. In contrast to Europe, Australian authorities appear reluctant to adopt new policies as a result of pressure from the auto industry. Electric bike regulations need to make certain that powerful bikes—which are in fact motorbikes—remain off the roads.
E-Bike Classification, Compliance, and Non-Compliance
In Australia, you can ride a motorised bicycle on any road or path unless it is clearly prohibited. You can ride an e-bike if
- It has one or more electric motors that can only produce 200 watts of power and are only for pedal assistance.
- Alternatively, it can be a 250W output pedelec or bicycle with an electric motor, with a top speed of 25 km/h. In order to keep a speed greater than 25 km per hour, you must pedal.
- Pedelecs must also meet EN15194 compliance standards. The Australian government has accepted EN15194 as the EU standard that electric bikes must meet in order to be legally used on Australian streets.
Is Electric Bicycle Riding Legal in Australia?
Before we discuss whether an electric bicycle requires a licence in Australia, we will look at the legality of electric bikes. On average, electric bicycles are legal in Australia. Electric bikes will benefit both the public and the government by reducing traffic congestion and reliance on public transportation, contributing to climate change mitigation efforts. As a result, Australia has legalised e-bikes in accordance with international law.
However, it is important that you stay updated on and abide by the laws in your state.
General Electric Bike Laws in Australia
Electric bike laws are more or less general and the same all over Australia. So, before forwarding the e-bike laws applied in every Australian territory, let us first share the general e-bike rules and regulations applied in the country.
- In Australia, e-bikes can have a maximum output of 250W and reach speeds of up to 25 km/h. You are still allowed to ride faster, provided that the motor power needs to be cut off at the speed limit. The e-bike will then be powered by manual cycling.
- In Australia, wearing a helmet when riding an electric bike is mandatory due to national road safety regulations. Riders must use authorised helmets that fit securely and have labels proving compliance with Australian standards.
- When riding an electric bike, both front and rear lights must be turned on, particularly at night. The law requires a white front light and a red rear light. Proper lighting improves safety for both cyclists and pedestrians, and failing to comply may result in a fine.
Does an Electric Bike Require a Licence in Australia?
Now, after having covered the basics, let's get to the major question: Do you need a licence to ride an e-bike in Australia? Licencing requirements differ by state, so check the laws where you live. If your e-bike has a top speed of 25 km/h or less, you do not need a licence. However, jurisdictions such as New South Wales require you to register your e-bike before using it on public roads. If your e-bike travels faster than 25 km/h, you must obtain a licence to ride it.
Electric Bike Laws in Australian States
In the following section, we will look at the different regulations in each state.
Victoria
- E-bikes must be pedal assisted only and must have a motor output of less than 200W.
- Or, they must have a combined power output of 250W and a maximum speed of 25 km/h, but pedal assistance will be required above 25 km/h.
Queensland
- E-bikes must have up to 200W of motor output and pedal assist.
- Or, 250W of power output and a maximum speed of 25 km/h.
- E-bikes should comply with the requirement by EN15194.
New South Wales
- Either one or two motors should be installed, not more than 200W, and whose input may be used singularly or in any combination to provide power assistance to pedalling.
- Or, the either is installed with a pedelec, not more than 250W, and has a maximum speed of 25 km/h.
Tasmania
- The motor output of e-bikes should not exceed 200 watts, and the pedal assist should be utilised.
- Or, they can have a power output of 250W and a maximum speed of 25 km/h.
- E-bikes have to meet the standard stipulated in the EN15194 standard.
South Australia
- Electric bikes are under the same power and speed restrictions as other states.
Western Australia
- E-bikes must be registered and fully insured before being used on open roads.
- Motorised vehicles, including e-scooters and e-boards, have a 250-watt limit on roads and streets.
Stay up-to-date on National Transport Commission laws across the country.
The Best Road Legal Electric Bikes in Australia
If you really want to buy a road-legal electric bike that comes completely compliant with all e-bike regulations in Australia, then here are two of the best options to consider from Veloz, one of the leading electric bike brands in the world. Both these e-bikes comply with Australian motor power, top speed, and other regulations, and therefore, they don't need a licence to operate on public roads. Here's a brief look at these e-bikes:
VALK Shuttle 5
- Drive System: Rear wheel
- Type: Folding
- Wheel Size: 20 inches
- Gears: 7 Speed
- Frame: 6061 Alloy
- Brake Type: Disc System
- Power Plug: 10A Australian Standard
- Battery Type: 36V 7.8Ah
- Motor Power: 250W
- Max Assisted Speed: 25 km/h
VALK Vista 26
- Wheel Type: Hybrid Tyres
- Front Wheels: 26"
- Rear Wheels: 26"
- Derailleur Shimano Tourney
- Shifter: Shimano SIS 7 Speed
- Frame: 6061 Alloy
- Brake Type: Front and Rear Disc
- Display Panel: Digital Control Panel
- Power (Watts): 250W
- Battery Capacity: 8.8Ah
- Battery Voltage: 36V
- Motor Type: Rear Hub
- Max Assisted Speed: 25 km/h
- Maximum Range: Up to 40km
In Summary
Overall, we have covered everything you need to know about Australian legislation and licencing procedures. Do you need a licence for an electric bike? No, you will not have to bother about those in most Australian states. Electric bikes open up additional opportunities for consumers through unlicensed riding, making rides more enjoyable and off-road trips more exciting. They truly defy all of the limitations imposed by traditional biking. So, are you prepared for your soon-to-be electric bike trip? Pick your next electric bike using the Veloz Ultimate E-bike Range.
So, before purchasing or upgrading your electric bike, make sure it complies with all of the legislation and licence requirements.