New Illinois Micromobility Law: What Every Parent Needs to Know
- 2 days ago
- 3 min read
Would you let your teenager ride a motorcycle?
Most parents would answer, "Of course not."
But many don't realize that some of today's electric bikes, scooters, and other micromobility devices can reach speeds similar to a motorcycle. As these devices have become more popular, emergency departments across the country have seen a significant increase in serious injuries involving children and teens.
That's why Illinois has adopted a new micromobility law—to help keep young riders safer while giving parents clearer guidelines about who can ride what.
Not all e-bikes are the same
One of the biggest sources of confusion is that not every e-bike is built the same. Some provide assistance only while pedaling, while others can accelerate with a throttle and travel at much higher speeds.
Understanding which type of device your child is riding is the first step in knowing which rules apply.
What parents should know about Illinois' new law (effective January 1, 2027)
E-Bikes -Class 1 and Class 2 (up to 20 mph)
Riders must be at least 15 years old. No one under 15 will be allowed to ride an e-bike of any kind.
Allowed on:
Streets
Bike lanes
Bike paths
Shared-use trails
Not allowed on sidewalks.
Class 3 E-Bikes (up to 28 mph)
Riders must be at least 16 years old.
Riders must be 18 years old to carry a passenger.
Allowed on streets, bike lanes, bike paths, and shared-use trails.
Not allowed on sidewalks.
High-Speed E-Bikes and E-Motos (Over 28 mph and up to 50+ mph)
If a device can travel more than 28 mph, it is treated much more like a motor vehicle.
These vehicles require:
A driver's license
Registration
A title
Insurance
They are not permitted on sidewalks, bike lanes, or bike paths.
Electric Unicycles (up to 50+ mph)
Riders must be 16 years old.
Cannot be operated faster than 28 mph.
Not allowed on sidewalks.
May be ridden:
On bike lanes
On bike paths
On roads with speed limits up to 35 mph
On roads over 35 mph only if a bike lane is present
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Electric Skateboards (15-40 mph)
Riders must be 16 years old.
Cannot exceed 28 mph.
Not allowed on sidewalks.
May be ridden:
On bike lanes
On bike paths
On roads with speed limits up to 35 mph
On roads over 35 mph only if a bike lane is present
Low-Speed Electric Scooters (10–20 mph)
Riders must be 16 years old.
Not allowed on sidewalks.
May be ridden:
On bike lanes
On bike paths
On roads with speed limits up to 35 mph
On roads over 35 mph only if a bike lane is present
High-Speed Electric Scooter (up to 50+ mph)
Riders must be 16 years old.
Not allowed on sidewalks.
May be ridden:
On bike lanes
On bike paths
On roads with speed limits up to 35 mph
On roads over 35 mph only if a bike lane is present
Toy Vehicle – Battery-powered toy device designed for children under 8 and allowed on sidewalks.
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The law is only the beginning
Following the law helps protect young riders, but parents can do even more.
Before your child heads out, make sure they:
Wear a properly fitted helmet every ride.
Since micromobility devices travel at higher speeds than regular devices, e-bike riders should wear helmets certified to the NTA 8776 standard which tests for higher impact crashes.
Riders may also want to consider full-face protection.
Ride a device that matches their age, size, and experience.
Stay off sidewalks unless specifically permitted.
Follow traffic signs and signals.
Make visibility a priority by using lights and reflectors and wearing brightly colored clothing.
Ride predictably and stay alert for cars, pedestrians, and other cyclists.
Avoid distractions like headphones or cell phones while riding.
The Bottom Line
Micromobility devices offer kids and teens a fun, convenient way to get around, but they're not toys. Many can travel at speeds that can cause life-changing injuries when crashes occur.
Illinois' new law helps establish important safety standards, but parents remain the most important safety influence. Knowing the rules, choosing age-appropriate devices, and insisting on safe riding habits can help ensure your child enjoys the benefits of micromobility while staying safe.
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