The development of electric vehicles over the past decade has been remarkable. However, there hasn’t been much discussion about electric bicycles in India. As a result, most of us aren’t sure whether a licence is required to ride one in India.
Yes, a valid driver’s licence is needed if your electric bike has a speed of over 25 kilometres per hour. The only differences between your electric bike and a standard paddle bicycle are the batteries and motors.
What are the Types of Electric Bikes in India?
A motorised bicycle that delivers power propulsion with an electric motor and battery is known as an electric bicycle (also commonly known as an electric bike or electric cycle). In general, there are two kinds of electric bicycles.
Pedelec Electric Bicycles
These bicycles are often referred to as Electronically Power-Assisted Cycles. They feature an electric motor mounted on the cycle’s front hub, back hub, or pedals. These models of e-bikes are among the most widely used.
E-Bike in Moped Style
You don’t have to peddle too much since these bicycles are throttle-operated. Push or turn the handlebar throttle to produce power that goes directly to your motors.
Need for a Licence
Before getting into the specifics of whether or not you need a licence for electric bikes, you must go through what a regular bike licence entails.
The following are some functions of a driver’s licence:
- A licence is an acknowledgement (approval) from the appropriate governmental body to operate a certain vehicle on public roads.
- A driver’s licence is required for riders since it identifies the individual driving the specific vehicle.
- In addition to proving that you’re fit to operate a motor vehicle, passing the licensure exam is an official certification that you’re qualified to take a certified driver job.
- It is quite helpful in identification and may identify a certain individual in the event of accidents.
What are the Prerequisites for Obtaining a Licence for an Electric Bicycle?
Riding an electric bicycle with a speed of over 25 kilometres per hour and a motor with an output (power) of over 250 watts requires a licence, as stated by the ARAI.
In India, electric bicycles, often known as e-bikes, typically employ 250w motors to offer a peak speed of up to 25 km/h. Therefore, a driving licence is not necessary to operate an electric bike with a 250w engine in India.
These are the critical parameters needed to licence an electric bike. Any two-wheeled vehicle that exceeds these restrictions attracts attention and calls for vigilance. Thus you must obtain a licence before riding one of those vehicles.
Rules and Guidelines for E-Bike License from RTO
The RTO has extremely specific rules governing the licensing of e-vehicles in this age of growing e-vehicles. As per guidelines, the following are the exemptions that e-bikes or electric bicycles with 250w motors do not necessarily need to have.
- Insurance coverage is not required in India for such electric bikes, but it would be best to get one as a prudent choice.
- Owners of electric bicycles are exempt from paying road tolls.
- Such electric bicycles are not required to be registered (number plate).
- In India, riding an electric bike does not mandate wearing a helmet, etc.
E-bikes with a minimum power of 250W and a maximum speed of 25 kilometres per hour often do not need a licence. Teenagers between the ages of 16 and 18 may ride e-bikes even though the legal driving age in India is 21 since most e-bikes have a speed in that range.
Most electric bicycles on the road nowadays can be ridden without a licence, but you still need to know how fast you’re going and how much power your motor has. A helmet, insurance, number plate, and licence are all required if your e-bike exceeds the standard range.
Is it Smart to Invest in E-Bicycles for Indian Roads?
Yes, there are several reasons why e-bikes are the best option. The rise in oil costs is one of the main causes. You may experience the same degree of comfort on an e-bike as you would on a fuel motorcycle for a far lower investment and expenditure.
E-bikes are lighter than motorcycles, quicker than pedal bikes, and need less maintenance. They’re also easier to operate than motorbikes. So 250w e-bikes are your greatest alternative if you’re a student who isn’t eligible for a licence yet.
Conclusion
Today’s record-high fuel costs definitely tempt people to transition from driving vehicles to adopting greener forms of transportation, including electric bikes. The objective of the Indian government is to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and enhance the nation’s health. So, an electric cycle is the most economical transportation for daily commutes to and from school, job, or university.
If you ride a 250-watt electric bicycle or e-bicycle in India, you do not need a valid driver’s licence. If you are 16 years or older, you may use a 250w electric bike without a driver’s licence. However, while riding an e-bike, you should always abide by traffic laws. Furthermore, a helmet is not necessary, but it is always recommended to wear it for safety.
