Electric bicycle law in France
Mobility, environmental and budget considerations may lead people to consider electric bicycles, including pedelecs meeting the legal definition. This page explains the French rules to check before buying or converting a bicycle.
Pedelecs have a rechargeable battery and an electric motor. They can make some urban journeys easier; weight, size and performance vary by model. They produce no exhaust emissions during use, but environmental impact also depends on manufacturing, the battery, energy use and end-of-life treatment.
In France, pedelec use is regulated by law. The rules depend on the complete vehicle’s category, not just the kit’s commercial name.
The legal pedelec definition in France
The electrically assisted pedal cycles (pedelecs, called VAE in France) belong to the cycle category when they meet, in particular, the definition in Article R311-1, 6.11 of the French Highway Code:
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The auxiliary motor assists pedalling; its power supply stops when the rider stops pedalling.
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Motor power is progressively reduced and cut off when the bicycle reaches 25 km/h.
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The auxiliary motor’s maximum continuous rated power is 0.25 kW, or 250 W. This is not peak power or battery capacity.
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A motorised vehicle outside this definition may belong to another category, including a moped, with approval, registration, insurance and equipment requirements to check. Conversion or a speed setting alone does not guarantee permission for public-road use.
Conformity and safety of the complete bicycle
The VAE must meet applicable bicycle safety requirements, particularly Decree No. 2016-364, and the relevant machinery safety and electromagnetic compatibility requirements. Check the complete bicycle’s CE marking, EC declaration of conformity and instructions. A pedelec meeting the cycle definition is not subject to moped approval; a generic “approval certificate” does not replace the appropriate conformity documents. For a kit, also check the frame, brakes, components and installation. Ask the insurer about coverage of the actual configuration.
Insurance according to the bicycle category
In France, a compliant pedelec in the cycle category is not subject to compulsory motor-vehicle insurance. Liability insurance is nevertheless strongly recommended: without coverage, you must bear the cost of harm caused to others. Check that your home policy explicitly covers pedelec use. A vehicle in the moped category requires liability insurance. You may also request additional cover for your VAE against theft or damage under the policy conditions; coverage should not be assumed to be automatic.
Rules checked on 9 October 2026