Beginning Jan. 1, 2027, riders of Class 1 and Class 2 e-bikes must be at least 15, while Class 3 riders must be at least 16. Low-speed e-bikes remain permitted on streets, bike lanes and paths, but not sidewalks.

E-bikes and e-motos capable of exceeding 28 mph will be treated as motor-driven cycles and require a driver’s license, title, registration and insurance. High-speed scooters, electric skateboards and electric unicycles will be limited to 28 mph, prohibited on sidewalks and restricted to approved roads, bike lanes and paths.

All covered devices will be banned from sidewalks and capped at 28 mph on roads, bike lanes, and paths.

The law also sets minimum age requirements — 15 for Class 1 and Class 2 e-bikes, and 16 for Class 3 e-bikes and other high-powered devices.

State officials say the regulations are a direct response to the rapid rise in high-powered device use and a string of serious crashes involving young riders across Illinois.