As of 31 August 2026, you must be 16 and hold a valid driver licence (minimum Learner) to ride an e-bike in Queensland.
This has major implications for Uber Eats and other delivery services throughout Queensland. It also changes the way teenagers enjoy themselves – no more monos down the M1 on a Friday arvo.
A summary of the current rules:
- Pedals are primary source of power
- Motor assistance stops at 25km/hr
- Maximum motor output limited to 250 watts
- Motor must be electric with hand throttle limited to 6km/hr
What changed on 31 August 2026:
Who can ride
- You must be 16 and hold a valid driver licence (minimum Learner) to ride an e-bike in Queensland.
- You don’t currently need registration or insurance to ride a legal e-bike.
- Equivalent interstate or overseas licences are recognised.
- You must not ride if your licence is expired, suspended or disqualified.
However, there are exemptions for this new ruling:
If you have a medical condition, are under 16 years old, or can’t hold a licence for other reasons, there are exemptions available to help you keep riding. For example, if you are supervised by your parent or caregiver.
If you are riding on rail trails, mountain bike trails, or private recreational bicycle facilities – areas of low pedstrian activity.
What devices are now Illegal?
The following devices are illegal to ride on public paths or roads in Queensland:
- petrol-powered bikes
- electric bikes with motors more powerful than 250 watts maximum continuous rated power
- bikes that only use a throttle (for example, no pedalling required to power the bike)
For more information, check the Queensland Government E-Bike Rules web page.
