Québec E-Bike Laws (2026): 500W, 32 km/h, Helmet, Age 14–17 Licence + What’s Not Allowed

In Québec, electric bikes are officially called power-assisted bicycles. The rules are clear, but a lot of products marketed as “e-bikes” (especially moped/motorbike-looking ones) can fall outside what Québec allows on public roads or bikeways.

Last verified: February 2026 (based on SAAQ and Québec government guidance).

1) What counts as a legal e-bike in Québec?

To be authorized on public roads in Québec as a power-assisted bicycle, the e-bike must meet key requirements:

• It must be a bicycle (2 or 3 wheels, handlebars, usable pedals).
• The motor must have a maximum power rating of 500W or less.
• The motor must cease to generate power at 32 km/h (anything above that must be muscle power on flat ground).
• You must be able to pedal it like a normal bike without electric assistance.

2) Minimum age and licence rules in Québec

• 18+: you can ride an electric bike without a driver’s licence.
• 14–17: you must hold a Class 6D (moped/scooter) licence to ride an electric bike.
• Under 14: not authorized.

3) Helmet requirement (and fines)

Helmet use is mandatory. The SAAQ notes you can be fined if you don’t comply with helmet rules and other Highway Safety Code rules.

4) Where you can ride (and where you can’t)

• You may ride on public roadways where bicycles are allowed.
• You may ride on public roads except on highways and their access and exit ramps.
• Always respect local signage and municipal rules for paths and corridors.

Montreal note: Montreal police guidance mentions two common enforcement points: (1) the bike should bear a removable manufacturer label stating it is a power-assisted bicycle, and (2) if a power-assisted bicycle has a moveable step, it may not be allowed on a bicycle path or lane.

5) The big Québec trap: “moped-like” e-bikes that are NOT allowed

Québec government guidance warns that certain vehicles that resemble mopeds, scooters, or motorcycles and are sold as electric bicycles may be prohibited on public roads, bikeways, and sidewalks if they do not have a certification mark showing they comply with Canada Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (CMVSS).

Rule of thumb: if it looks and behaves like a small motorbike, verify whether it truly qualifies as a power-assisted bicycle (500W max + 32 km/h motor cut-off + usable pedals) or if it must be treated like a motor vehicle.

6) Fast legality checklist (copy/paste)

1. Motor is rated 500W or less.
2. Motor assistance cuts at 32 km/h.
3. Usable pedals are installed and you can pedal normally without assistance.
4. Helmet is worn.
5. You are 18+, OR age 14–17 with a Class 6D licence.
6. You avoid highways and highway ramps.
7. You are not riding a moped-like device lacking proper certification for Québec road use.

Québec-friendly picks (based on the rules) + one “verify” pick

Québec road-use reminder: For public roadway riding as a power-assisted bicycle, the SAAQ guidance is clear: 500W max motor rating and motor assistance must stop at 32 km/h.

Road-use aligned picks (500W + 32 km/h listed on the product page)

• 1) Step-thru comfort + high-tech commuter: Eunorau Meta (2024)
  Why: two frame sizes, torque sensor for smooth assist, and it lists a 500W motor with 32 km/h limited speed.
  View Eunorau Meta (2024)
• 2) Folding/condo pick: Eunorau Meta Foldable eBike
  Why: folding storage, torque sensor assist, and it lists a 500W motor and 32 km/h top speed.
  View Eunorau Meta Foldable
• 3) Trail/fitness option: Taubik Alps 2024 (Designed in Canada)
  Why: Canadian brand, torque sensor, and the spec list shows a 500W motor with speed limited to 32 kph.
  View Taubik Alps 2024
• 4) Family errands / cargo stability: Eunorau ONE-TRIKE 2.0 (500W Electric Tricycle)
  Why: rear-drive 500W motor listed, cargo-capable platform, and speed limited to 32 km/h listed.
  View ONE-TRIKE 2.0

Verify pick (popular, but likely outside Québec’s 500W definition)

This is a great traction/cargo-style build, but its spec is above the SAAQ’s 500W power-assisted bicycle definition. If you plan Québec public road use, verify legality carefully.

• FAT-AWD 3.0 — dual-motor spec is typically listed as 500W + 500W. That exceeds the SAAQ’s 500W max motor rating for power-assisted bicycles.
  View FAT-AWD 3.0

FAQ

Do I need licence plates or registration for an e-bike in Québec?

The SAAQ notes that electric bikes (power-assisted bicycles) cannot be registered. If the device does not qualify as a power-assisted bicycle, it may be treated as a motor vehicle and require certification/registration/insurance.

Can I ride an e-bike on highways in Québec?

No. SAAQ guidance says you may ride on public roads except on highways and their access/exit ramps.

Can a 14–17 year old ride an e-bike in Québec?

Yes, but only if they hold a Class 6D (moped or scooter) licence.

What if my e-bike is over 500W but limited to 32 km/h?

SAAQ guidance is clear: to be authorized on public roads as a power-assisted bicycle, the motor must be rated 500W or less and the motor must stop assisting at 32 km/h. A higher-rated motor can push it outside “legal e-bike” status.