San Diego, CA Mobility & Curb Rules: E-Bike Classes (2026)
Key Facts
- Citation
- SDMC §§ 84.19, 84.21
- Age limit
- Under 12 barred, Class 1-2
- First fine
- $25 infraction
- Fine waiver
- Complete safety course in 120 days
- Sunset
- Effective through Jan. 1, 2029
Summary
San Diego bars kids under 12 from operating Class 1 and Class 2 electric bicycles anywhere in the city under SDMC § 84.19, with helmet and no-extra-passenger rules for all e-bike riders under § 84.21.
Persons under 12 years of age are prohibited from operating Class 1 and Class 2 electric bicycles. This prohibition applies to all public rights-of-way, parks, paths, trails, and any other area open to bicycle travel. ... (b)(1) A violation shall be an infraction punishable by a fine of $25. (2) If a citation is issued, no record...shall be transmitted to the court and no fine shall be imposed if the parent or legal guardian...provides proof...that the person has completed an electric bicycle safety and training program under California Streets and Highways Code section 894.
Full Breakdown
SDMC § 84.19 prohibits anyone under age 12 from operating a Class 1 (pedal-assist) or Class 2 (throttle-assist) electric bicycle on any public right-of-way, park, path, trail, or other area open to bicycle travel. A first violation is a $25 infraction, but no fine or court record follows if a parent or guardian shows proof within 120 days that the child completed a state-approved e-bike safety course. Section 84.21 separately requires helmets for every e-bike rider and passenger and bars carrying a passenger unless the bike has a dedicated second seat. Both sections sunset with the state's San Diego Electric Bicycle Safety Law.
Violations & Fines
A child under 12 operating a Class 1 or Class 2 e-bike, or any e-bike rider without a fastened helmet or with an unauthorized passenger.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can a 10-year-old ride an e-bike in San Diego?
What happens on a first citation?
Sources & Official References
Other rules in San Diego
California rules heatmap·Compare San Diego to another location·View the California mobility & curb rules overview
See something wrong?
Help us keep this page accurate. If you notice an error or outdated information, let us know.
E-Bike Classes in Nearby Cities
How other cities in San Diego County handle e-bike classes.