With the rise of eco-friendly mobility, electric bikes (e-bikes) have become a popular choice across India. But as their popularity grows, so does confusion around laws:
Do you need a license for an electric bike? Is registration necessary? What are the speed and power limits?
This article provides a complete and updated guide on electric bike laws and license rules in India, as per the latest government regulations (2025).
⚖️ 1. Classification of Electric Bikes in India
The Ministry of Road Transport & Highways (MoRTH) and the Central Motor Vehicles Rules (CMVR) classify electric two-wheelers into two broad categories:
✅ A. Low-Speed Electric Bikes
- Top speed: ≤ 25 km/h
- Motor power: ≤ 250 watts
- Battery type: Mostly 48V lithium-ion
- Example brands: Hero Electric Optima CX, Okinawa R30, Yulu Miracle
📌 License & Registration: ❌ NOT required
📌 Helmet: ✅ Recommended but not mandatory by law
📌 Insurance: ❌ Not mandatory
✅ B. High-Speed Electric Bikes
- Top speed: > 25 km/h
- Motor power: > 250 watts
- Battery type: 48V/60V with more powerful motors
- Example models: Ather 450X, TVS iQube, Ola S1, Revolt RV400
📌 License & Registration: ✅ REQUIRED
📌 Helmet: ✅ Mandatory
📌 Insurance: ✅ Mandatory
🧾 2. License Requirements for Electric Bikes
| Type of E-Bike | License Needed? |
|---|---|
| Low-Speed (≤25 km/h, ≤250W) | ❌ No license required |
| High-Speed (>25 km/h, >250W) | ✅ Yes, Driving License (DL) needed |
📌 Minimum Age:
- No license e-bike: 16+ recommended (parental guidance)
- License-required e-bike: 18+ with valid DL (Two-wheeler gearless/scooter category)
🛂 3. RTO Registration Rules
✅ Required for:
- E-bikes above 250W or speed >25 km/h
- Any electric two-wheeler that qualifies as a “motor vehicle”
❌ Not Required for:
- Electric bicycles or scooters with ≤250W and ≤25 km/h speed
📄 Documents Needed for Registration:
- Invoice and sales certificate
- Battery & motor details (AIS 156 compliance)
- Insurance copy
- Form 20, Form 21 (application & sales)
- Identity & address proof
- Aadhar-linked mobile number
📋 4. Insurance for Electric Bikes
✅ Mandatory for:
All electric vehicles requiring registration (high-speed).
❌ Not required for:
Low-speed e-bikes under 250W.
💡 Types of Insurance:
- Third-party (mandatory by law)
- Comprehensive (includes damage/theft/fire)
🪪 5. Helmet Rule for Electric Bikes in India
| E-Bike Type | Helmet Required? |
|---|---|
| Low-Speed (under 25 km/h) | Not mandatory (but advised) |
| High-Speed (above 25 km/h) | ✅ Yes, mandatory |
Tip: Always wear a BIS-approved helmet for safety and legal protection.
🛑 6. Fines for Non-Compliance (2025)
| Violation | Penalty |
|---|---|
| No registration/license | ₹1,000–₹5,000 or vehicle seizure |
| No insurance | ₹2,000 for first offense |
| Not wearing helmet | ₹1,000 fine |
| Modified e-bike (tampering with speed/motor) | ₹5,000–₹10,000 |
🔋 7. Battery & Safety Certification Rules
From April 1, 2023, India made AIS-156 compliance mandatory for e-bike battery safety. Key points include:
- Battery Management System (BMS) must be approved
- Thermal runaway protection
- IP67 waterproof rating preferred
- BIS certification for chargers and batteries
👉 This protects against fire hazards and ensures performance.
🌐 8. State-Level Differences
While central rules apply nationwide, some states (like Delhi, Maharashtra, Karnataka) offer additional subsidies or enforce stricter helmet rules.
📌 Always check your State Transport Department’s website for local updates.
🧑🏫 9. Pro Tips for E-Bike Buyers in India
- Buy from a certified dealer with RTO-approved models
- Check if the model is low-speed or high-speed before buying
- Ask for AIS-156 compliant battery proof
- Confirm if insurance and registration are included in the on-road price
- Read warranty and service terms clearly
✅ Final Words
Electric bikes are the future of sustainable travel in India—but understanding the laws, license rules, and safety norms is crucial before you hit the road.
Whether you’re buying a budget-friendly low-speed scooter or a performance EV, staying compliant ensures safety, legality, and peace of mind.
📌 FAQs
Q1. Do I need a driving license for an electric scooter in India?
Only if the e-scooter’s speed exceeds 25 km/h or power exceeds 250W.
Q2. Is RTO registration needed for all e-bikes?
No. Only high-speed e-bikes require RTO registration and number plates.
Q3. What’s the penalty for not wearing a helmet on an electric scooter?
₹1,000 fine and possible license suspension (for high-speed e-bikes).
Q4. Are electric bicycles without motors allowed on roads?
Yes, electric bicycles without motors or with pedal assist are allowed without restrictions.
