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HB 948

Regards electric bicycle operation, education, and traffic safety

136th Legislature (2025-2026) Introduced by Kevin Miller and 1 co-sponsor

The bill updates e-bike labeling, safety standards, and rider education, requiring class labels, motor specifications, safety gear rules, and expanded public education.

Referred to committee
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Bill Summary · HB 948

Summary of HB 948 (Ohio, 136th General Assembly)

Purpose and intent

HB 948 proposes changes to Ohio law governing electric bicycles (e-bikes) and related vehicle education, licensing, and safety rules. The measure aims to update classification, labeling, permitting, and rider training requirements for electric bicycles and other low-speed or motorized vehicles, while enhancing public education about e-bike laws and safety. It also requires a state-ordered study to assess classifications and safety considerations for e-bikes, off-highway motorcycles, mini-bikes, and related vehicles.

Key provisions and changes

  • Driver licensing and examination (Section 4507.11)

    • Maintains registrar duties for testing applicants for licenses and endorsements, including knowledge of laws governing e-bikes and interactions with pedestrians and bicyclists.
    • Requires demonstrations of vehicle control for licenses, with formats determined by the Director of Public Safety.
    • Specifies that demonstrations should not use low-speed vehicles or mini-trucks for control testing.
    • Allows surrogate exam supervision by DPS-designated personnel and permits examiner’s driving permits during registrar investigations (up to 60 days).

  • Motorcycle and motor-driven cycle testing (Section 4507.11(A) and (B))

    • Continues in-person demonstration requirements for motorcycle endorsements and motor-driven cycles, with an exception for certain approved online coursework (see below).

  • Online driver education (Section 4508.02)

    • Authorizes rules for online driver education programs to satisfy in-person classroom requirements, including standards for licensure of online providers, content criteria, attendance limits, and the transition to behind-the-wheel instruction.
    • Requires 24 hours of classroom (or approved online equivalent) plus 8 hours of behind-the-wheel instruction for new noncommercial drivers.
    • Mandates content on distracted driving (including electronic devices), impairment, and bicycle/pedestrian sharing laws.
    • Establishes fees for online providers and certificates to document enrollment and completion; permits an abbreviated adult course option.

  • Electric bicycle labeling and safety (Section 4511.522)

    • Requires, from Jan 1, 2020, a permanent label on each e-bike specifying class (1, 2, or 3), top assisted speed, and motor wattage.
    • Prohibits modifications that alter top assisted speed without updating the label.
    • Requires retailers to provide an educational leaflet detailing e-bike laws and distinctions from other motorized products.

  • Manufacturing and equipment standards (Section 4511.522(C)-(D))

    • Ensures e-bike compliance with Consumer Product Safety Commission standards.
    • Class 1 and Class 3 e-bikes must disengage motor when pedaling stops; Class 2 must disengage motor when brakes are applied or a switch is activated.
    • Class 3 e-bikes must have a speedometer.

  • Use on paths and age/helmet requirements (Section 4511.522(C)-(D))

    • Class 1 and Class 2 may operate on bicycle paths unless barred by local authorities; Class 3 may operate on such paths only where permitted.
    • Prohibits Class 3 operation on certain trails unless authorized; specific exceptions for law enforcement.
    • Age restriction: no operation of Class 3 e-bikes by individuals under 16 (with passenger exceptions for designed models).
    • Helmet requirement for riders or passengers on Class 3 e-bikes.

  • Offenses and penalties (Section 4511.522(E))

    • Establishes minor misdemeanor penalties for prohibited e-bike operations, with escalating grades (fourth-degree, third-degree) for repeat offenses within a year.
    • Classifies these offenses as strict liability.

  • Education and outreach (Section 4511.522(F))

    • DOT and DPS must maintain a summary of e-bike laws, produce explanatory videos, publish them online, and distribute educational leaflets through retailers and driver training schools.

  • Study and report requirement (Section 3)

    • DPS must study classification and regulatory gaps for e-bikes, motorized bikes, mopeds, off-highway motorcycles, motorcycles, and mini-bikes within 30 days of enactment, including safety training considerations for higher-speed classes.
    • A preliminary report with recommendations due within 3 months to the Governor and legislative leaders; study may consider practices in other states.

Who and what is affected

  • Electric bicycle riders and manufacturers, retailers, and training providers.
  • Drivers, learner-permit holders, and license applicants undergoing classroom and behind-the-wheel training.
  • Local governments and path managers that regulate use of e-bikes on public or shared-use paths.
  • Law enforcement and DPS personnel involved in supervising exams and enforcing e-bike rules.
  • General public, through enhanced education materials and safer operation standards.

Procedural and timeline notes

  • The bill introduces labeling requirements and safety education effective upon enactment and ongoing enforcement.
  • It mandates a DPS-initiated study within 30 days of the section’s effective date and a formal report within 3 months to key state leaders.
  • Repeals current sections related to the existing framework for licensing and e-bike rules and replaces them with the new structure.

Note: This summary reflects the introduced text and its stated provisions; final enacted language could modify these elements.

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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