CVH 407.5 A “motorized scooter” is any two-wheeled device that has handlebars, has either a floorboard that is designed to be stood upon when riding or a seat and footrests in place of the floorboard, and is powered by an electric motor.

• Allowed on bicycle path, trail, or bikeway; not allowed on sidewalk
• Can be driven with any class driver's license

CVC 312.5 An “electric bicycle” is a bicycle equipped with fully operable pedals and an electric motor of less than 750 watts.

CVC 312.5 A “class 1 electric bicycle,” or “low-speed pedal-assisted electric bicycle,” is a bicycle equipped with a motor that provides assistance only when the rider is pedaling, and that ceases to provide assistance when the bicycle reaches the speed of 20 miles per hour.

• No license is required

CVC 312.5 A “class 2 electric bicycle,” or “low-speed throttle-assisted electric bicycle,” is a bicycle equipped with a motor that may be used exclusively to propel the bicycle, and that is not capable of providing assistance when the bicycle reaches the speed of 20 miles per hour.

• No license is required

CVC 312.5 A “class 3 electric bicycle,” or “speed pedal-assisted electric bicycle,” is a bicycle equipped with a motor that provides assistance only when the rider is pedaling, and that ceases to provide assistance when the bicycle reaches the speed of 28 miles per hour and equipped with a speedometer.

• Rider must be at least 16 years old
• Must wear a helmet 
• No license is required

CVC 406 A “motorized bicycle” or “moped” is a two-wheeled or three-wheeled device having fully operative pedals for propulsion by human power, or having no pedals if powered solely by electrical energy, and an automatic transmission and a motor that produces less than 4 gross brake horsepower and is capable of propelling the device at a maximum speed of not more than 30 miles per hour on level ground.

• Must have a motorcycle license (M1 or M2)
• Rider must be at least 16 years old
• Must wear a helmet

CVC 405 A “motor-driven cycle” is any motorcycle with a motor that displaces less than 150 cubic centimeters. A motor-driven cycle does not include a motorized bicycle. 

• Must have a motorcycle license (M1)

CVC 436 An “off-highway motorcycle” means a motorcycle or motor-driven cycle which is subject to identification under this code. Per the State of California DMV, OHVs are motor vehicles that are used only off public roads and highways, on lands that are open and accessible to the public. OHVs such as all-terrain vehicles, trail bikes, racing motorcycles, dune buggies, and snowmobiles do not require regular vehicle registration, but they must display an ID plate or placard issued by DMV.

• Not allowed on roads