Electric motorcycles are quickly gaining popularity across California. With lower emissions, reduced fuel costs, and a smoother riding experience, they’re an attractive option for commuters and recreational riders alike.
But one common question many riders ask is: Do you need insurance for electric motorcycles in California?
The short answer is yes—in most cases. Below, Expert Insurance breaks down what California law requires, how electric motorcycles are classified, and why having the right electric motorcycle insurance in California is essential for protecting yourself and others on the road.
In California, not all electric two-wheelers are treated the same. The California Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) classifies vehicles based on speed, motor power, and design.
An electric motorcycle is generally defined as a motor-driven cycle that:
If your electric bike falls into this category, it is legally considered a motorcycle, not an electric bicycle—and insurance requirements apply.
Lower-speed electric bicycles (Class 1, 2, or 3 e-bikes) typically do not require insurance, registration, or a motorcycle license. However, many high-performance electric motorcycles do.
Yes. If your electric motorcycle must be registered with the DMV, California law requires you to carry minimum liability insurance, just like a gas-powered motorcycle.
According to the California Vehicle Code, all registered motorcycles must carry liability coverage to legally operate on public roads. This includes electric motorcycles that meet the state’s motorcycle definition.
The minimum required liability limits in California are:
Riding without insurance can result in fines, registration suspension, and serious financial risk if you’re involved in an accident.
A standard electric motorcycle insurance in California policy may include several types of coverage, depending on what you choose:
This is the legally required coverage. It helps pay for injuries or property damage you cause to others in an accident.
Helps pay to repair or replace your electric motorcycle if it’s damaged in a collision—regardless of fault.
Covers non-collision losses such as theft, vandalism, fire, or weather-related damage. This is especially important given the high value of many electric motorcycles and their batteries.
Protects you if you’re hit by a driver who has little or no insurance—a common risk on California roads.
Helps cover medical expenses for you or your passenger after an accident, regardless of who is at fault.
Even if insurance were optional, riding without it would be risky. Electric motorcycles often come with:
Repairs and replacements can be costly, and liability claims can quickly escalate into thousands, or even millions, of dollars. Proper coverage helps protect your finances and peace of mind.
Additionally, California’s dense traffic and high accident rates make adequate insurance coverage a smart and responsible choice for riders.
Insurance premiums for electric motorcycles can vary based on:
In some cases, electric motorcycles may qualify for competitive rates due to fewer mechanical parts and environmental benefits. An experienced agency like Expert Insurance can help you find cost-effective options without sacrificing coverage.
Navigating insurance requirements can feel overwhelming, especially with newer vehicle types like electric motorcycles. At Expert Insurance, we specialize in helping California riders understand their obligations and choose coverage that fits their lifestyle and budget.
We’ll help you:
If your electric motorcycle is registered and street-legal, insurance is not optional in California, it’s required. More importantly, the right policy protects you from unexpected costs and legal trouble.
Whether you’re new to electric motorcycles or upgrading to a high-performance model, having the right electric motorcycle insurance in California is essential.
Call Expert Insurance at 310-533-6000 to speak with a knowledgeable agent. Contact us today to get personalized guidance and secure coverage that keeps you protected on every ride.
