WESTPORT–Attention e-bike riders: beginning October 1, 2025, you will need a driver’s license to ride certain types of e-bikes, the Westport Police Department announced.

E-bikes–those without pedals and using batteries over 750 watts–are covered under the new directive.

Connecticut is updating state law to classify electric-powered bicycles that meet those criteria as motor-driven cycles, the department said.

Also, riders of e-bikes powered by more than 3,500 watts are expected to need to register the vehicles and maintain insurance, similar to motorcycles.

“Parents: as you shop for e-bikes, please keep these changes in mind—especially for younger riders,” the department said in an Instagram post. “If a bike performs like a motorcycle, it may not be the right fit for a child just yet. Let’s work together to keep our roads—and our kids—safe.”

Class 1–3 e-bikes will not be affected by the new rules, but caution is always advised, especially for children. E-bikes have been growing in popularity, but also present an emerging health concern according to a July 17 announcement from the American College of Surgeons.

“The rise in e-bike use, especially among children and adolescents, presents a significant public health challenge due to the associated increase in injuries and fatalities,” the announcement reads.