Motorized Bicycle Laws in Tennessee

Motorized Bicycles in Tennessee

Generic Court GavelThe State of Tennessee has fairly lenient requirements for motorized bicycles when compared to other states, so there is a great opportunity to get out and enjoy the gas savings and other benefits that you get from motorized biking!

Still, it’s important to know the requirements, so we have listed them below for you.

Electric Bicycles

Tennessee doesn’t seem to have any laws defined specifically for electric bicycles. But, we can refer to the federal laws.

According to federal laws, e-bikes are defined as bicycles that have a motor that is 750 watts or less, and has a top speed of 20 MPH on level ground.

Motorized Bicycles

The State of Tennessee considers a motorized bicycle or moped to be a bike that:

  • Has 2 or 3 wheels.
  • Has an automatic transmission.
  • Has a motor that is no bigger than 50 CC, and produces no more than 2 brake horsepower.
  • Has a maximum speed of 30 MPH on level ground.

If your bike exceeds the above requirements, then it is likely considered to be a motorcycle rather than a moped, and you must follow all of the motorcycle laws and regulations in Tennessee.

Moped Laws

In order to ride a moped on public roads, you need to carry a valid Tennessee driver’s license. Note that a motorcycle endorsement is not required as long as your bike meets the moped requirements.

You must register and title mopeds through your local County Clerk’s office. You’ll need to bring a Manufacturer’s Statement of Origin or the previous title, and a valid form of identification.

You can’t drive mopeds on sidewalks or interstate highways, and you must always wear a proper helmet while riding.

Scooters

As far as the laws are concerned, scooters and mopeds are considered one and the same in Tennessee; scooters must follow all of the same laws as mopeds, and they also have the same requirements.

Refer to the moped laws and requirements listed above.

Want a Motorized Bicycle?

We have a great selection of motorized bicycles for sale! While we recommend getting an e-bike, we also have motorized bicycle kits for sale and bicycle accessories for sale. All of our listings are highly reviewed, as you will see for yourself!

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