E-bikes

An e-bike is a pedal-assisted electric bike. Pedal-assisted means the electric motor stops providing power when you stop pedalling.

E-bikes are treated the same as conventional bikes under Irish law. You do not need a licence to ride one and your e-bike does not need to be registered, taxed or insured.

While it is not illegal for children to ride e-bikes in public places, young children should always be supervised.

Technical requirements

An e-bike used on a public road must have:

• A maximum power output of 250 watts or less
• A motor that cuts off once you stop pedalling
• A maximum speed of 25km per hour
• Front and rear lights (switched on during lighting-up hours and darkness)

Cargo bikes which meet these exact requirements are also classified as e-bikes.

An e-bike that does not meet these technical standards is categorised as an e-moped.

You can read more about e-mopeds and the law.

You can also see a table setting out technical definitions and requirements for e-scooter, e-bikes and e-mopeds (pdf).

E-bikes can be legally used on Irish roads since 20 May 2024 under the Road Traffic and Roads Act 2023.

Where you can use an e-bike

• E-bikes can be used on local, regional, and national roads. They cannot be used on motorways.
• E-bikes cannot be used on footpaths or in pedestrianised areas.
• You can use cycle and bus lanes.
• You must drive on the left, including in cycle and bus lanes.

Rules of the road

• Follow the rules of the road, especially for traffic lights, pedestrian crossings, and zebra crossings.
• Follow all traffic signs in the same way they apply to cyclists.
• You must not hold or use your mobile phone when cycling an e-bike.
• Follow signals given by a Garda or school warden.

Read more about the laws on cycling in Ireland.

You do not need:

• A vehicle registration plate
• Motor tax
• A driving licence
• Compulsory insurance

If you break the rules of the road, you can be fined between €40 and €80.

You must not ride your e-bike under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Riding under the influence can result in a court appearance and a fine of up to €2,000.

It is important to look after your safety and the safety of others on the road. Follow these safety tips when cycling your e-bike:

• Take weather conditions into consideration.
• Be seen; wear reflective (hi-vis) clothing and personal protection gear.
• You should wear a helmet, although this is not legally required.
• Do not use headphones.
• Be mindful of others on the road.

Only buy an e-bike from a reputable retailer or distributor. You can use the Cycle to Work Scheme to help pay for a new e-bike.

Check that the e-bike is CE marked. It should have the manufacturer's details, manufacture date and serial number on its CE plate.

The retailer should give you a declaration of conformity when you buy it.

For more information, see the Road Safety Authority and the Department of Transport websites.

Read our pages on e-scooters and e-mopeds.