City Reviewing New Illinois Micromobility Safety Law Taking Effect January 1, 2027

New state legislation governing high-speed e-bikes, e-motos, and other powerful electric transportation devices, Senate Bill 3484, will take effect across Illinois on January 1, 2027. The City of Evanston is aware of these changes and is reviewing its existing rules for e-bikes and other micromobility devices.

What the new state law does 

Low-speed e-bikes (Class 1, 2, and 3): No driver's license, registration, or insurance required. Riders must be at least 15 years old for Class 1 and 2 e-bikes (up to 20 mph) and at least 16 for Class 3 e-bikes (up to 28 mph). Riders under 18 may carry only a sibling, stepsibling, child, or stepchild as a passenger.

Where e-bikes can ride: Low-speed e-bikes are permitted on streets, bike lanes, bike paths, and shared-use trails, but not sidewalks. State agencies, park districts, forest preserve districts, and other authorized agencies may establish additional restrictions on paths and trails under their jurisdiction.

High-speed e-bikes and e-motos: Devices of 750 watts or more and capable of traveling faster than 28 mph are classified as motor-driven cycles. Riders must have a valid driver's license, and vehicles must meet applicable title, registration, and insurance requirements. These vehicles are prohibited from sidewalks, bike lanes, and bike paths. Motor-driven cycles purchased before January 1, 2027, may be exempt from new titling requirements based on their purchase date. However, vehicles operated on public roads must still meet all applicable State title, registration, and insurance requirements.

E-scooters, e-skateboards, and e-unicycles: Riders must be at least 16 years old. These devices may operate on streets with speed limits of 35 mph or less, bike lanes, and bike paths. They are prohibited from sidewalks, interstates, and roads with speed limits over 35 mph unless a bike lane is present. Riders may not exceed 28 mph. These devices must have working brakes. A white front light and a red rear reflector or qualifying rear light are also required when riding at night. 

Evanston's review

City staff is examining Evanston's current regulations to determine how they align with the new state law. Where appropriate, the City may consider City Code amendments or other implementation measures to ensure they are consistent with the new state law. Any proposed changes would go through the City’s regular public process. 

Because the City's legal, policy, and enforcement review is still underway, no specific local changes are being announced at this time. 

Residents who ride, own, or are considering purchasing an e-bike or other electric mobility device are encouraged to review the Illinois Secretary of State's guidance on the new rules.

For more information, call/text 847-448-4311, or simply dial 3-1-1 while in Evanston.