Summary
California’s new 2025 e-motorcycle rules redefine licensing, registration, and safety requirements under Senate Bill No. 586. Riders must understand where to operate, comply with stricter helmet laws, and avoid penalties for reckless driving. Learn how these updates impact accident liability, insurance coverage, and Personal injury claim eligibility.
Table of Contents
Electric motorcycles are transforming California recreation and off-road riding—offering speed, sustainability, and excitement. But with these benefits come new responsibilities under the state’s updated e-motorcycle rules for 2025.
Whether you’re exploring off-road trails in the Angeles National Forest or riding at designated OHV parks, riders must understand that off-highway electric motorcycles (eMotos) defined under SB 586 are NOT street-legal vehicles. They can only be operated in authorized off-highway areas, not on public streets, bike lanes, or highways. Let’s explore how these changes affect every eMoto owner—and what you need to do to stay compliant.
Key Updates in California’s 2025 E-Motorcycle Rules
Senate Bill No. 586, enacted in 2025, introduces new classifications and safety requirements for off-highway electric motorcycles. These updates aim to address the growing number of electric riders in California’s off-highway areas and reduce accidents caused by mechanical failures or a lack of regulation.
What’s New Under SB 586
Category | Previous Rule | 2025 Update |
Vehicle Classification | Pedal-less electric bikes had no clear legal classification. | Off-highway electric motorcycle” is now defined as a two-wheeled, pedal-free electric motorcycle designed for off-road use only with a seat and handlebars for control |
Identification | Not required for all off-road vehicles. | The DMV must issue a mandatory identification plate or device. |
Where They Can Operate | Unclear/illegal on most roads | Only in designated OHV areas, trails, and authorized off-highway locations |
Safety Equipment | Helmet required in some zones | Certified helmets required at all times when operating off-highway |
Penalties | Minor citations. | Expanded penalties for illegal street operation and reckless driving in OHV areas |
If you’re riding an e-motorcycle that’s not properly registered with an OHV identification plate, you could face fines, impoundment, or even misdemeanor charges under California Vehicle Code Section 38010.
Helmet and Equipment Requirements for OHV Use
California now mandates that all e-motorcycle riders wear Department of Transportation-approved helmets and protective gear on or off highways.
Additional equipment you’ll need:
- DOT-approved safety helmet
- U.S. Forest Service-approved spark arrester in good working condition
- Functional brakes suitable for off-road terrain
- Muffler meeting OHV sound regulations
- DMV-issued OHV identification plate (Green or Red Sticker)
Failure to comply could result in citations and reduce your chances of full compensation if you file a personal injury claim after a crash. Courts often consider compliance with traffic laws when determining liability and settlement offer value.
Where You Can Legally Ride in 2025
The new off-highway electric motorcycle rules clarify that these vehicles can ONLY operate in designated off-highway areas.
✅ Permitted areas:
- Designated Off-Highway Vehicle (OHV) State Parks (such as Prairie City SVRA, Carnegie SVRA, Hungry Valley SVRA)
- Bureau of Land Management (BLM) lands where OHV use is authorized
- National Forest trails and roads open to OHVs (check Motor Vehicle Use Maps)
- Private property with the owner’s permission
- Designated OHV routes on certain public roads only where specifically marked and authorized by local authorities
🚫 Restricted areas:
- ALL public streets and highways (unless on a specifically designated and marked OHV route)
- ALL bike lanes and shared-use paths
- Freeways and interstate highways
- Pedestrian-only paths and sidewalks
- School zones and residential streets
- ANY paved road without explicit OHV authorization signage
Suppose you want to ride an electric motorcycle on regular streets like Washington Boulevard in Culver City or the Pacific Coast Highway. In that case, you need a street-legal electric motorcycle that is fully registered with the DMV as a motor vehicle, has a VIN, meets all street equipment requirements (turn signals, mirrors, horn, DOT tires, etc.), and requires a motorcycle license (M1) and insurance. The off-highway eMotos defined in SB 586 do NOT qualify for street use.
To find authorized OHV riding areas, check:
- California State Parks OHV website (ohv.parks.ca.gov)
- National Forest Motor Vehicle Use Maps (MVUMs)
- Local land management agency websites
Penalties for Unlicensed or Reckless Riding
The new enforcement program introduces stricter penalties for unlicensed operation and reckless driving.
- First offense: Fines up to $1,000
- Repeated violations: Vehicle impoundment or community service
- Injury-causing violations: Possible criminal charges
A 2023 study found that nearly one in four riders had a crash in the past year, mostly unlicensed. Younger age, frequent riding, and risky behaviors like speeding or stunts increase crash risk. The new rules aim to reduce these risks by promoting proper licensing, safer riding habits, and stricter enforcement.
How These Changes Affect Accident Victims
If you’re injured in an e-motorcycle crash, your case could be influenced by how closely you followed the new rules. Insurance adjusters and your law firm will review your police report, witness statements, and traffic camera footage to determine fault.
Victims may face long hospital stays, ongoing medical treatment costs, and insurance disputes—especially if coverage is denied due to non-compliance. Compensation may include:
- Medical bills and medical treatment expenses
- Lost wages and financial recovery
- Pain and suffering damages
- Repairs for property damage
If your crash involves brain or spine injuries, consult a Culver City motorcycle accident lawyer immediately. They can negotiate with your insurance company, handle complex documentation, and protect your rights.
Steps to Take After an E-Motorcycle Crash
Here’s what to do after an e-motorcycle accident to strengthen your personal injury claim:
- Seek immediate medical care — Even minor medical treatment ensures your health and creates essential records.
- Report the accident — File a police report and request copies for your case.
- Gather evidence — Take photos, note road hazards, and obtain witness statements.
- Document damages — Keep receipts for repairs and medical providers.
- Contact legal help — A Culver City motorcycle accident lawyer can assess your claim, communicate with insurers, and handle disputes efficiently.
FAQs
Off-highway eMotos under SB 586 do not require liability insurance for off-road use, but you must have proper DMV OHV registration (Green or Red Sticker). However, having insurance is still recommended to protect yourself. If you want to ride on public streets, you need a street-legal electric motorcycle with complete registration and mandatory insurance.
No. Off-highway electric motorcycles defined under SB 586 are NOT street-legal and cannot be operated on public streets, bike lanes, highways, or freeways—except on specifically designated and marked OHV routes authorized by local jurisdictions. Illegal street operation can result in serious penalties.
No. Off-highway eMotos cannot be ridden on bike paths, bike lanes, or highways like PCH. These are public road infrastructure where only street-legal vehicles are permitted.
You can pursue a personal injury claim for financial recovery, including pain and suffering, medical expenses, and property damage. Your attorney will evaluate the circumstances, including whether both parties were operating legally in authorized areas.
This significantly complicates your claim. While you may still have some rights if the other driver was negligent, your illegal operation will likely reduce your recovery substantially or potentially bar it entirely. Consult with an experienced attorney who can honestly assess your situation.
Yes, failure to comply with helmet laws may reduce compensation in settlement negotiations, as it demonstrates failure to follow safety regulations.
Our skilled attorney familiar with traffic laws, OHV regulations, and legal services for motorcycle riders can help you pursue justice, regardless of where your accident occurred.
Injured on an E-Motorcycle? We’re Here to Help You Recover
California’s new e-motorcycle rules mark a turning point in road safety and accountability. As electric motorcycles continue to grow in popularity, understanding these changes is essential for both compliance and protection.
If you or someone you know has been injured in an e-motorcycle or motorcycle accident, don’t face it alone. Our team at Motorcyclist Attorney offers free consultations to help you understand your rights, calculate medical expenses, and guide your financial recovery.
Contact us today to speak with an experienced attorney and get the justice you deserve.
