Electric motorcycles (e-motorcycles) have gained popularity in Nevada as an eco-friendly and low-maintenance alternative to traditional motorcycles. In response, Nevada lawmakers have passed new bills regulating these vehicles for safety reasons. To lawfully ride an e-motorcycle in Nevada today, the vehicle must be properly registered and insured, and the rider must have a Class M driver’s license.
What Is an Electric Motorcycle?
Nevada does not have a specific law defining electric motorcycles. However, Nevada Revised Statutes (NRS) § 486.038defines “motorcycle” as a vehicle equipped with a seat or saddle for the use of the driver and designed to travel on not more than three wheels in contact with the ground. This definition does not include electric bicycles or mopeds. An electric motorcycle has an electric motor that assists the rider rather than a traditional gas motor. Because they are legally classified as motorcycles, these electric vehicles carry the same risks as traditional bikes, and victims of collisions often require the help of a Las Vegas motorcycle accident lawyer to recover damages.
What Does it Take to Legally Operate an Electric Motorcycle in Nevada?
Under the new rules in Nevada, electric motorcycles cannot be ridden in Las Vegas or elsewhere unless they are properly registered. Registering them can be difficult, as the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) has strict rules in place for doing so. Three things must be true for the DMV to register an e-motorcycle and permit it to be ridden on public streets:
- The electric motorcycle must be made street legal. This often requires adding equipment, such as turn signals and brake lights.
- The operator of the e-motorcycle must have a valid Class M motorcycle driver’s license. This requires an age of at least 16 years old. The rider must also have automobile insurance on the motorcycle.
- The electric motorcycle must pass a vehicle identification number (VIN) inspection to register it with the DMV. This can be an issue, as some manufacturers don’t include them on e-motorcycles.
To avoid problems during registration, make sure the electric motorcycle you purchase has a VIN. Otherwise, you can submit a DMV complaint form for assistance. They can reach out to manufacturers for you. If you don’t properly register and insure your electric motorcycle in Nevada, the vehicle can get towed.
Where Can Electric Motorcycles Be Ridden in Nevada?
Clark County has a recent ordinance as of May 2025 that prohibits electric motorcycles from being operated in county parks due to safety concerns. If a bike meets the definition of an e-motorcycle, it is not treated the same way as an e-bike or scooter when it comes to riding in Clark County parks.
Electric Motorcycle Safety Tips
Electric motorcycle riders (and passengers) in Nevada are required to wear DOT-approved helmets under NRS § 486.231. Wearing a helmet can significantly reduce the risk of serious and fatal traumatic brain injuries in accidents. You can help prevent an e-motorcycle accident by constantly paying attention to the road. Avoid distractions while operating your e-motorcycle. Do not follow other vehicles too closely. Leave ample following distance to give yourself plenty of time to come to a stop, if necessary.
Keep your speed at a safe pace, even if this is below the posted speed limit. Be extra cautious and reduce your speed on wet pavement or if there is loose gravel or grass clippings. Increase your visibility to other drivers by wearing brightly colored clothing and using your daytime running lights. If you get involved in an electric motorcycle accident in Nevada, contact the personal injury lawyers at Koch & Brim, LLP for a free consultation about your legal rights. You may be entitled to financial compensation.