Electric bikes are a game-changer in India, providing an environmentally friendly, pocket-friendly solution to the conventional fuel-burning vehicle. With fuel prices on the rise and greater emphasis on sustainability, several riders are opting for electric two-wheelers. However, one frequently asked question that numerous first-time buyers want to know is: Does electric bike need license in India? Or can you just drive it without a license if it's electric?
In this guide, we'll clear up the confusion by explaining do we need license for electric bike and when you can ride it without one. Whether you are a new buyer or simply interested in learning the regulations, we've got you covered.
In India, if you need a license or not for an electric bike depends on the motor power and speed. For those looking for electric bikes no license required, here’s what you need to know.
Whether an electric bike requires a driving license is based on two factors: motor power and top speed. Based on the existing Indian regulations:
Low-Speed Electric Bikes: If your electric bike produces 250 watts or less of motor output and has a maximum speed of 25 km/h or less, then you don't require a driver's license. Such bike without license models are categorized as non-motorised.
High-Speed Electric Bikes: If your bicycle has more than 250 watts of motor power or a top speed above 25 km/h, then it comes under the category of a motor vehicle according to Indian law. Hence, you will need to have a valid driver's license to drive it, just like any standard motorcycle.
In essence, electric bikes that fall within the "high-speed" category, i.e., exceeding 250 watts or 25 km/h, require a valid driver’s license. These bikes are regulated like traditional motorcycles, ensuring that riders have the necessary skills and experience to operate them safely.
Low-speed electric bikes that satisfy the low-speed requirements (motor power of 250 watts or less, speed of 25 km/h or less) are exempted from licensing. Such bikes are regarded as "non-motorised" vehicles and are not liable for the same regulations applying to high-speed motor vehicles.
Low-Speed Electric Bikes: These do not require RTO registration and do not require insurance.
High-Speed Electric Bikes: If your bike exceeds the limits for a low-speed electric bike, you are required to register the bike with the RTO and obtain valid insurance for it.
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An additional question is what the legal age limit for riding electric bikes are.
Low-Speed Electric Bikes (below 25 km/h, 250W):
Young riders as young as 16 years can ride these machines without a license.
High-Speed Electric Bikes (above 25 km/h, 250W):
Riders must be 18 years or older and hold a valid electric bike license.
This ensures that young riders can enjoy eco-friendly transport safely, while powerful vehicles are handled only by adults with proper training.
Helmets are also compulsory for riders of high-speed e-bikes (vehicles above 25 km/h), according to the MoRTH regulation. Although there isn't a specified helmet for low-speed vehicles, it is highly advisable to use one for extra safety, particularly when driving within urban limits. A helmet is crucial for protection in the event of an accident, minimizing the chances of head damage.
For high-speed electric bikes that require a license, the process is similar to obtaining a license for conventional motorcycles. Here are the steps:
Learner’s Licence – Apply online or at your local RTO, and take the theory test on traffic rules.
Driving Test – After 30 days, take a practical riding test to prove your skills.
Permanent Licence – Upon passing, you’ll receive your permanent driving license for two-wheelers.
In most of the states, this is done through the Parivahan portal online, which is a convenient option for new applicants.
In most states, you can apply for a driving license online through the Parivahan website. Always refer to your local RTO's rules for detailed procedures. The online application allows you to submit the forms, schedule test slots, and monitor the status of the application from home.
For those who want a bike without a license, low-speed options are available in the Indian market, and Bajaj offers models that perfectly fit this category. If you are asking yourself, does electric bike need license, these variants are the answer because they meet the requirements for license-free riding. Easy, safe urban mobility specifically aimed at students, office-goers, or others who want hassle-free transportation without any registration or licensing.
Example:
Bajaj Chetak (Low-Speed Variant) – This version is designed to make riding around town easy, efficient and stylish while complying with RTO regulations for license-free riding.
These are appropriate models for people who want an easy-to-ride, green option without sacrificing comfort and quality.
Even though your e-bike probably doesn't require registration, but you still require insurance. As a minimum, you'll need compulsory third-party liability insurance, although most bikers will elect to take out comprehensive insurance to insure their e-bike and parts against loss or damage resulting from accidents or other unforseen events.
If your electric bike requires a license, it will require standard two wheeler insurance policies applicable to normal motorcycles. The insurance premium will be based upon the battery power area and the overall value of the bike. Comprehensive insurance coverage may provide you with better protection against accidents and cover you for theft or damage to critical parts.
RTO registration rules for electric bikes vary based on speed and motor capacity, and understanding them is essential for compliance with Indian regulations.
Low-speed electric bikes are generally exempt from RTO registration since they fall under the non-motorized category. However, high-speed electric bikes that exceed 25 km/h or have a motor power above 250 watts must be registered just like conventional two-wheelers.
For high-speed electric bicycles, completing the RTO registration process is required. Once registration is completed, your vehicle will receive a green number plate with white lettering, which specifically identifies it as an electric vehicle. These green number plates are an official requirement of all registered electric two-wheeled vehicles in India.
Read More: How to Calculate Bike Mileage
The necessity of a license to operate an electric bike in India depends on its technical characteristics. If you want to know, does electric bike need license in India, low-power models (up to 250 watts) with restricted speed (up to 25 km/h) can be ridden without a license, but high-speed models need valid licensing. To remain on the right side of the law and save yourself from fines, always check your bike's specifications and follow RTO norms prior to taking your vehicle out for a ride. Selecting the correct category depending upon your use will provide both convenience and safety.
Final Tip; If you are uncertain about the regulations in your region, refer to the official Parivahan or Vahan portals for the latest and most accurate information.
It depends on the bike’s speed. No license is required for low-speed e-bikes (under 25 km/h), but a license is necessary for high-speed models (above 25 km/h).
Low-speed electric bikes have a maximum speed of 25 km/h. These do not require a license or registration.
For high-speed electric bikes, the rider must be at least 16 years old. There are no age restrictions for low-speed e-bikes.
Registration is required only for high-speed electric bikes (above 25 km/h). Low-speed bikes do not need to be registered.
Yes, low-speed electric bikes (25 km/h or less) can be ridden without a license, but they must meet safety standards.
