06/05/2026
☀️ Summer is here, and we’re seeing more teens and children riding electric bikes, mopeds, and motorcycles throughout New Hanover County.
Not all electric two-wheeled vehicles are treated the same under North Carolina law. In fact, many vehicles marketed as “e-bikes” may actually meet the legal definition of a moped or motorcycle depending on their speed and power.
🚲 E-Bike
• No driver’s license required
• No registration required
• No insurance required
🛵 E-Moped
• Must be registered with the NCDMV
• Liability insurance required
• Operator must be at least 16 years old
• Wear a DOT approved helmet
🏍️ E-Motorcycle
• Must be registered with the NCDMV
• Liability insurance required
• Motorcycle endorsement required
• Must follow all motorcycle laws
• Valid driver’s license required with a motorcycle endorsement
• Wear a DOT approved helmet
Before purchasing or riding an electric two-wheeled vehicle, take a few minutes to understand which laws apply. A vehicle’s appearance or how it’s marketed doesn’t always determine how it’s classified under North Carolina law.
Watch the video below for a quick breakdown and help us keep everyone safe during the 100 Deadliest Days of Summer.
