AMENDED IN ASSEMBLY AUGUST 20, 2026

AMENDED IN ASSEMBLY JULY 1, 2026

AMENDED IN ASSEMBLY JUNE 22, 2026

AMENDED IN SENATE MAY 14, 2026

AMENDED IN SENATE APRIL 9, 2026

AMENDED IN SENATE MARCH 26, 2026

CALIFORNIA LEGISLATURE— 2025–2026 REGULAR SESSION

SENATE BILLNo. 1167

Introduced by Senator Blakespear

(Coauthors: Senators Choi, Dahle, Gonzalez, Grayson, Menjivar, Richardson, Strickland, and Wiener)

February 18, 2026

An act to amend Section 51860 of the Education Code, to amend Sections 26300, 26302, 26303, and 26304 of the Health and Safety Code, to amend Section 4442 of the Public Resources Code, and to amend Sections 312.5, 405, 406, 407.5, 426, 472, 672, 4020, 5030, 5031, 5032, 5033, 5034, 5035, 5036, 5037, 5038, 5039, 12500, 12509, 12509.5, 12804.9, 12814.6, 21113, 21201.3, 21203, 21207.5, 21209, 21712, 21960, 22651.08, 23135, 23330, 24015, 24951, 25650, 27800, 27802, 27803, 38012, 38366, 38505, and 38601 of, to amend the heading of Article 8.1 (commencing with Section 5030) of Chapter 1 of Division 3 of, to add Section 21065 to, and to add ~~Article 7.5 (commencing with Section 27850)~~ Article 19.1 (commencing with Section 28180) and Article 19.5 (commencing with Section 28190) to Chapter 5 of Division 12 of, the Vehicle Code, relating to vehicles.

Vote: majority Appropriation: no Fiscal committee: yes Local program: yes

LEGISLATIVE COUNSEL’S DIGEST

Existing law defines an electric bicycle as a bicycle equipped with fully operable pedals and an electric motor that does not exceed 750 watts of power. Existing law classifies electric bicycles into 3 classes with different restrictions for various purposes, and requires, among other things, a class 3 electric bicycle to be equipped with a speedometer. Existing law prohibits certain vehicles that do not meet the definition of an electric bicycle from being advertised, sold, offered for sale, or labeled as an electric bicycle, as specified. A violation of the Vehicle Code is a crime.

This bill would amend the type of vehicles that are prohibited from being advertised, sold, offered for sale, or labeled as electric bicycles, including, among others, motor-driven cycles and mopeds. By expanding the application of an existing crime, this bill would impose a state-mandated local program.

Existing law defines a motor-driven cycle as any motorcycle with a motor that displaces less than 150 cubic centimeters.

This bill would revise the definition of motor-driven cycle to mean any motorcycle propelled by an internal combustion engine that displaces less than 150 cubic centimeters, or by an electric motor that produces 5 gross brake horsepower (3,750 watts) or less, and is designed for highway use, complies with all applicable federal motor safety standards, has a 17-digit vehicle identification number and a safety certification label, and meets all of the equipment requirements of the Vehicle Code.

Existing law defines a motorized bicycle or moped as a two-wheeled or three-wheeled device having fully operative pedals for propulsion by human power, or having no pedals if powered solely by electrical energy, and an automatic transmission and a motor that produces less than 4 gross brake horsepower, and is capable of propelling the device at a maximum speed of not more than 30 miles per hour on level ground.

This bill would delete references to motorized bicycle in the Vehicle Code and replace the term with “moped.” The bill would revise the definition of a moped to mean a two-wheeled or three-wheeled device that has an electric motor or an internal combustion engine that produces less than 4 gross brake horsepower (3,000 watts), is capable of propelling the device at a maximum speed of not more than 30 miles per hour on level ground, is designed for highway use, complies with all applicable federal motor safety standards, has a 17-digit vehicle identification number and a safety certification label, and meets all of the equipment requirements of the Vehicle Code. The bill would specify that a moped may be equipped with operable pedals for propulsion by human power.

Existing law requires every manufacturer of a motorized bicycle or moped to provide a specified disclosure to buyers.

This bill would instead require every manufacturer, importer, or seller of a motor-driven cycle, moped, or off-highway electric motorcycle that is powered by an electric motor to provide a specified disclosure to all potential buyers in any advertising, including any online advertising on internet websites or social media. By expanding the application of an existing crime, this bill would impose a state-mandated local program.

Existing law requires manufacturers and distributors of electric bicycles to apply a label that is permanently affixed, in a prominent location, to each electric bicycle. Existing law requires the label to contain the classification number, top assisted speed, and motor wattage of the electric bicycle, as specified.

~~This~~

For electric bicycles, this bill would additionally require the inclusion of the brand name of the electric bicycle and the manufacturer, importer, or distributor. This bill would require manufacturers and distributors of mopeds and motor-driven cycles to affix a certification label, as specified, on or to the permanent member of the vehicle, as specified. The bill would make it unlawful for a person to sell an electric bicycle, moped, or motor-driven cycle in violation of the labeling and disclosure requirements mentioned above. By expanding the application of an existing crime, this bill would impose a state-mandated local program.

This bill would prohibit a person from selling or installing an electric bicycle classification label unless the classification label is sold and installed in a physical retailer or bicycle repair shop. The bill would require a retailer and bicycle repair shop of electric bicycles to verify that the classification label matches the electric bicycle class before installing the classification label on an electric bicycle. By expanding the application of an existing crime, this bill would impose a state-mandated local program.

This bill would require any incident report filed by a peace officer for an injury or crash involving an electric bicycle, moped, and motor-driven cycle to include specified ~~marking or label information affixed on the electric bicycle, moped, and motor-driven cycle~~ information or to indicate that a marking or label was not available. By increasing duties on local law enforcement, this bill would impose a state-mandated local program.

Existing law prohibits a person from distributing, selling, or leasing a powered mobility device unless the battery for the powered mobility device has been tested by an accredited testing laboratory for compliance with ANSI/CAN/UL 2272. Existing law requires a charging system advertised, distributed, sold, or leased for use with a particular device, including a powered mobility device, to be certified for use with that device. For these purposes, existing law defines a “powered mobility device” as including, among other devices, a motorized bicycle or moped or an off-highway motorcycle.

This bill would remove a motorized bicycle or moped or an off-highway electric motorcycle from the definition of a powered mobility device. The bill would prohibit the distribution, sale, or lease of a moped or off-highway electric motorcycle unless the battery complies with a certain safety standard. The bill would also require a charging system advertised, distributed, sold, or leased for use with a moped or off-highway electric motorcycle to comply with this standard. By expanding the application of an existing crime, this bill would impose a state-mandated local program.

Existing law prohibits a person from renting a powered mobility device or its charging system unless the device or charging system has been tested for compliance with ANSI/CAN/UL 2272, as specified.

This bill would prohibit a person from renting a moped or off-highway electric motorcycle or its charging system unless the battery for the moped or off-highway electric motorcycle or the charging system complies with a certain safety standard. By expanding the application of an existing crime, this bill would impose a state-mandated local program.

Existing law defines an off-highway motor vehicle as a motor vehicle that operates on lands, other than a highway, that are open and accessible to the public, as specified. Existing law establishes rules for the operation of an off-highway vehicle. Existing law requires every off-highway motor vehicle that is not registered under the Vehicle Code to display an identification plate or device issued by the Department of Motor Vehicles, except as specified.

This bill would specify that mopeds are subject to identification as off-highway motor vehicles. The bill would also prohibit the use, allowing to use, or operation of an off-highway electric motorcycle, motorcycle, motor-driven cycle, or moped powered by an electric motor on any forest-covered land, brush-covered land, or grass-covered land unless the vehicle complies with standards for mopeds and off-highway electric motorcycles, as specified. By creating new crimes related to the operation of off-highway vehicles, this bill would impose a state-mandated local program.

Existing law requires a manufacturer, importer, distributor, or retailer of an electric bicycle, powered mobility device, charging system, or storage battery subject to certain testing to provide, upon request, a true and accurate copy of the test report for the product issued by the accredited testing laboratory.

This bill would require a manufacturer, importer, distributor, or retailer of a moped, off-highway electric motorcycle, charging system, or storage battery used on a moped or off-highway electric motorcycle to retain documentation and information supporting compliance with any standard required, as specified. By expanding the application of an existing crime, this bill would impose a state-mandated local program.

Existing law authorizes a peace officer to remove a vehicle that (1) has fewer than 4 wheels, but that does not meet the definition of an electric bicycle, if that vehicle is powered by an electric motor capable of exclusively propelling the vehicle in excess of 20 miles per hour on a highway and is being operated by an operator without a current license to operate the vehicle, or (2) is a class 3 electric bicycle being operated by a person under 16 years of age.

This bill would additionally prohibit a person from operating a 2-wheeled or 3-wheeled device powered by an electric motor that is capable of propelling the device at a speed greater than 20 miles per hour on level ground on a highway or public right-of-way when powered solely by the motor unless the device meets the definition of a device that is explicitly defined in, and authorized for use on a highway or public right-of-way by, the Vehicle Code. The bill would authorize a peace officer to remove the vehicle if the vehicle is a 2-wheeled or 3-wheeled unauthorized device being operated by a person on a highway or public right-of-way. Because a violation of these provisions would be a crime, the bill would impose a state-mandated local program.

This bill would make other clarifying and conforming changes.

This bill would incorporate additional changes to Section 4442 of the Public Resources Code proposed by AB 2075 to be operative only if this bill and AB 2075 are enacted and this bill is enacted last.

This bill would incorporate additional changes to Section 12804.9 of the Vehicle Code proposed by AB 1913 to be operative only if this bill and AB 1913 are enacted and this bill is enacted last.

The California Constitution requires the state to reimburse local agencies and school districts for certain costs mandated by the state. Statutory provisions establish procedures for making that reimbursement.

This bill would provide that no reimbursement is required by this act for a specified reason.

This bill would make certain provisions described above operative only if AB 2346 is enacted.

The people of the State of California do enact as follows:

SECTION 1.

The Legislature finds and declares all of the following:

(a) Electric bicycles not only offer a solution to car dependency and transportation poverty, but also help reduce our carbon footprint. As California moves away from its dependence on fossil fuels, we will continue to see a rise in zero-emission modes of transportation, including, but not limited to, electric bicycles.

(b) Electric bicycles reduce barriers in encouraging more people to ride bicycles and play a significant factor in replacing car trips in order to meet our goals of shifting to alternative modes of transportation, reducing the number of motor vehicle miles traveled, and improving our climate.

(c) Other electric cycles, including motor-driven cycles, mopeds, and “e-motos,” are not electric bicycles because of their excessive speed and power, but are designed and marketed as “e-bikes” to children on social media, and are gaining popularity. Nearly 90 percent of electric devices observed at the bicycle racks of local schools in Counties of San Mateo and Marin in 2025 were “e-motos,” not electric bicycles.

(d) Many devices are being deceptively marketed as class 2 or class 3 electric bicycles and do not fit into the legal classification of either class because the equipped motor is more powerful than the legally authorized 750 watts or because the advertised and actual top assisted speed is above the legal limit of 20 or 28 miles per hour, respectively.

(e) “E-motos” are causing increased safety issues on the streets of many California communities, based on evidence in a report issued by the Mineta Transportation Institute in 2025.

(f) It is the intent of the Legislature to improve the safe movement and expanded usage of electric bicycles as a net-zero transportation mode in the context of California’s existing multimodal transportation system.

(g) It is the intent of the Legislature to protect consumers from deceptive marketing tactics while ensuring the safety of our roadways.

SEC. 2.

Section 51860 of the Education Code is amended to read:

51860.

(a) The governing board of any school district having jurisdiction over any elementary, intermediate, junior high, or high school may provide time and facilities to any local law enforcement agency having jurisdiction over the schools of the district, as well as to other organizations, as described in paragraph (1) of subdivision (a) of Section 38134, or public agencies that provide bicycle, scooter, electric bicycle, moped, or motorized scooter safety instruction, for bicycle, scooter, electric bicycle, moped, or motorized scooter safety instruction.

(b) For purposes of this section, the following definitions apply:

(1) “Electric bicycle” has the same meaning as in Section 312.5 of the Vehicle Code.

(2) “Moped” has the same meaning as in Section 406 of the Vehicle Code.

(3) “Motorized scooter” has the same meaning as in Section 407.5 of the Vehicle Code.

SEC. 3.

Section 26300 of the Health and Safety Code is amended to read:

26300.

For purposes of this chapter, the following terms have the following meanings:

(a) “Accredited testing laboratory” means an independent laboratory accredited by an accreditation body to ISO 17025 or ISO 17065, or a Nationally Recognized Testing Laboratory (NRTL).

(b) “Certification” means the attestation by an accredited testing laboratory that the equipment, device, or product has been evaluated and tested and found to conform to the standards specified in this chapter.

(c) “Charging system” means dedicated chargers used for charging an electric bicycle, a powered mobility device, or storage batteries that are either in place or removed from electric bicycles or powered mobility devices for charging.

(d) “Complete electrical system” means all electric components of an electric bicycle or powered mobility device, including, but not limited to, drive units, batteries, battery management systems, interconnected wiring, charging systems, and power inlets.

(e) (1) “Electric bicycle” means a bicycle with electric assistance as defined in Section 312.5 of the Vehicle Code.

(2) Devices advertised as “e-bikes,” “e-bicycles,” “electric bikes,” or other variations that are substantially similar to an electric bicycle are subject to the same standards as an electric bicycle.

(f) “Nationally recognized testing laboratory” (NRTL) means an organization that meets the qualifications provided in Section 1910(b) of Title 29 of the Code of Federal Regulations and is recognized as an NRTL by the United States Department of Labor, Occupational Safety and Health Administration’s (OSHA) Nationally Recognized Testing Laboratory Program.

(g) “Office” means the Office of the State Fire Marshal.

(h) (1) “Powered mobility device” includes either of the following:

(A) A motorized scooter as defined in subdivision (a) of Section 407.5 of the Vehicle Code.

(B) Any other personal mobility device powered by a lithium-ion storage battery.

(2) “Powered mobility device” does not include electric bicycles, wheelchairs, or other mobility devices designed for use by persons with disabilities, a vehicle that is powered by an internal combustion engine, or a vehicle required to be registered with the Department of Motor Vehicles.

(i) “Storage battery” means any of the following:

(1) A rechargeable lithium-ion traction battery that supplies electrical power to the motor that propels an electric bicycle or powered mobility device, and includes a replacement original equipment traction battery for those devices.

(2) A battery sold as part of a kit intended to convert a bicycle into an electric bicycle or powered mobility device.

(3) A lithium-ion battery advertised as suitable for use with an electric bicycle or powered mobility device.

SEC. 4.

Section 26302 of the Health and Safety Code is amended to read:

26302.

(a) A person shall not distribute, sell, lease, or offer for sale or lease an electric bicycle unless the storage battery for the electric bicycle has been tested by an accredited testing laboratory for compliance with a standard referenced in ANSI/CAN/UL 2849 or EN 15194, or other safety standard for electric bicycles as the office has established by rule.

(b) A person shall not distribute, sell, lease, or offer for sale or lease a powered mobility device unless the battery for the powered mobility device has been tested by an accredited testing laboratory for compliance with ANSI/CAN/UL 2272.

(c) A person shall not ~~shall not~~ distribute, sell, lease, or offer for sale or lease a moped or off-highway electric motorcycle unless the battery for the vehicle complies with SAE J2929 or another applicable SAE, ISO, UNECE, or IEC safety standard.

(d) A person shall not distribute, sell, lease, or offer for sale or lease a storage battery unless the storage battery meets any of the following:

(1) The storage battery is designed for a powered mobility device and has been tested by an accredited testing laboratory for compliance with ANSI/CAN/UL 2271 or other safety standard for powered mobility devices as the office has established by rule.

(2) The storage battery is designed for an electric bicycle and has been tested by an accredited testing laboratory for compliance with a battery standard referenced in ANSI/CAN/UL 2849, EN 15194, or other safety standard as the office has established by rule, or is part of a complete electrical system for an electric bicycle that has been tested by an accredited laboratory for compliance with ANSI/CAN/UL 2849, EN 15194, or other safety standard as the office has established by rule.

(3) The storage battery is designed for a moped or off-highway electric motorcycle, and the battery complies with SAE J2929 or another applicable SAE, ISO, UNECE, or IEC safety standard.

(e) (1) Charging systems advertised, distributed, sold, leased, or offered for sale or lease for use with a particular electric bicycle, powered mobility device, or storage battery shall be certified for use with that electric bicycle, powered mobility device, or storage battery.

(2) Charging systems advertised, distributed, sold, leased, or offered for sale or lease for use with mopeds or off-highway electric motorcycles shall comply with applicable requirements within SAE J2929 or another applicable SAE, ISO, UNECE, or IEC safety standard, and be compatible for use with the moped, off-highway electric motorcycle, or storage battery.

(f) (1) A person shall not distribute, sell, lease, or offer for sale or lease an electric bicycle, powered mobility device, charging system, or storage battery unless the logo, wordmark, label, or name of an accredited testing laboratory and the applicable certification standard used to show compliance is permanently affixed directly on the electric bicycle or its electrical system, the powered mobility device, the charging system, or the battery of the electric bicycle or powered mobility device.

(2) A person shall not distribute, sell, lease, or offer for sale or lease a moped or off-highway electric motorcycle unless the vehicle is equipped with a permanent label or marking on the vehicle in a readily visible location stating compliance with SAE J2929 or another applicable SAE, ISO, UNECE, or IEC safety standard, and the manufacturer retains documentation and information supporting compliance with the standard.

(3) A person shall not be required to display the logo, wordmark, label, or name of an accredited testing laboratory if the electric bicycle, powered mobility device, moped, off-highway electric motorcycle, charging system, or storage battery is being sold or leased secondhand.

SEC. 5.

Section 26303 of the Health and Safety Code is amended to read:

26303.

(a) A person shall not rent or offer for rental an electric bicycle unless the battery for the electric bicycle has been tested by an accredited testing laboratory for compliance with a standard referenced in ANSI/CAN/UL 2849, EN 15194, or other safety standard for electric bicycles the office has established by rule.

(b) A person shall not rent or offer for rental an electric bicycle charging system unless the charging system has been tested by an accredited testing laboratory for compliance with a standard referenced in ANSI/CAN/UL 2849, EN 15194, or other safety standard for electric bicycle charging systems the office has established by rule, and, if it is being rented for use with a specific electric bicycle, it is certified for use with that electric bicycle’s battery.

(c) A person shall not rent or offer for rental a powered mobility device unless the powered mobility device has been tested by an accredited testing laboratory for compliance with ANSI/CAN/UL 2272.

(d) A person shall not rent or offer for rental a powered mobility device charging system unless the charging system has been tested by an accredited testing laboratory for compliance with ANSI/CAN/UL 2272 and, if it is being rented for use with a specific powered mobility device, it is certified for use with that powered mobility device’s battery.

(e) A person shall not rent or offer for rental a moped or off-highway electric motorcycle unless the battery for the vehicle complies with SAE J2929 or another applicable SAE, ISO, UNECE, or IEC safety standard.

(f) A person shall not rent or offer for rental a moped or off-highway electric motorcycle charging system unless the charging system complies with applicable requirements within SAE J2929 or another applicable SAE, ISO, UNECE, or IEC safety standard, and is compatible for use with the moped, off-highway electric motorcycle, or storage battery.

(g) A person shall not rent or offer for rental a storage battery unless the storage battery meets any of the following:

(1) The storage battery is designed for a powered mobility device and has been tested by an accredited testing laboratory for compliance with ANSI/CAN/UL 2271.

(3) The storage battery is designed for a moped or off-highway electric motorcycle, and the battery complies with SAE J2929 or another applicable SAE, ISO, UNECE, or IEC safety standard.

(h) A person shall not rent or offer for rental a storage battery charging system unless either of the following circumstances are met:

(1) The charging system has been tested by an accredited testing laboratory for compliance with a charger standard referenced in UL 2272, UL 2849, EN 15194, or other safety standard for storage battery charging systems the office has established by rule and, if it is being rented for use with a specific storage battery, it is certified for use with that storage battery.

(2) The charging system complies with applicable requirements within SAE J2929 or another applicable SAE, ISO, UNECE, or IEC safety standard if the storage battery charging system is for use with a moped or off-highway electric motorcycle.

(i) A person shall not be required to display the logo, wordmark, label, or name of an accredited testing laboratory if the electric bicycle, powered mobility device, or storage battery is being rented.

(j) This section shall become operative on January 1, 2028.

SEC. 6.

Section 26304 of the Health and Safety Code is amended to read:

26304.

(a) A manufacturer, importer, distributor, or retailer of an electric bicycle, powered mobility device, charging system, or storage battery used on an electric bicycle or powered mobility device, that is subject to testing under this chapter, shall provide, upon request, a true and accurate copy of the test report for the product issued by the accredited testing laboratory.

(b) A manufacturer, importer, distributor, or retailer of a moped or off-highway electric motorcycle, charging system, or storage battery used on a moped or off-highway electric motorcycle shall retain documentation and information supporting compliance with any standard required by this chapter.

SEC. 7.

Section 4442 of the Public Resources Code is amended to read:

4442.

(a) Except as otherwise provided in this section, a person shall not use, operate, or allow to be used or operated, any internal combustion engine that uses hydrocarbon fuels on any forest-covered land, brush-covered land, or grass-covered land unless the engine is equipped with a spark arrester, as defined in subdivision (c), maintained in effective working order, or the engine is constructed, equipped, and maintained for the prevention of fire pursuant to Section 4443.

(b) Spark arresters affixed to the exhaust system of engines or vehicles subject to this section shall not be placed or mounted in such a manner as to allow flames or heat from the exhaust system to ignite any flammable material.

(c) A spark arrester is a device constructed of nonflammable materials specifically for the purpose of removing and retaining carbon and other flammable particles over 0.0232 of an inch in size from the exhaust flow of an internal combustion engine that uses hydrocarbon fuels or which is qualified and rated by the United States Forest Service.

(d) Engines used to provide motive power for trucks, truck tractors, buses, and passenger vehicles, except motorcycles, are not subject to this section if the exhaust system is equipped with a muffler, as defined in the Vehicle Code.

(e) Turbocharged engines are not subject to this section if all exhausted gases pass through the rotating turbine wheel, there is no exhaust bypass to the atmosphere, and the turbocharger is in effective mechanical condition.

(f) Motor vehicles, when being operated in an organized racing or competitive event upon a closed course, are not subject to this section if the event is conducted under the auspices of a recognized sanctioning body and by permit issued by the fire protection authority having jurisdiction.

(g) A person shall not use, operate, or allow to be used or operated, any off-highway electric motorcycle, or any motorcycle, motor-driven cycle, or moped powered by an electric motor, on any forest-covered land, brush-covered land, or grass-covered land unless the vehicle has been certified by its manufacturer for compliance with SAE J2929 or another applicable SAE, ISO, UNECE, or IEC electrical safety standard and the name of the manufacturer and the test standard used are permanently marked on the vehicle or on its drive system.

SEC. 7.5.

Section 4442 of the Public Resources Code is amended to read:

4442.

(a) Except as otherwise provided in this section, no a person shall not use, operate, or allow to be used or operated, ~~any~~ an internal combustion engine ~~which~~ that uses hydrocarbon fuels on any forest-covered land, brush-covered land, or grass-covered land unless the engine is equipped with a spark arrester, as defined in subdivision (c), maintained in effective working ~~order~~ order, or the engine is constructed, equipped, and maintained for the prevention of fire pursuant to Section 4443.

(c) A spark arrester is a device constructed of nonflammable materials specifically for the purpose of removing and retaining carbon and other flammable particles over 0.0232 of an inch in size from the exhaust flow of an internal combustion engine that uses hydrocarbon fuels or ~~which~~ that is qualified and rated by the United States Forest Service.

(f) Motor ~~vehicles~~ vehicles, when being operated in an organized racing or competitive event upon a closed ~~course~~ course, are not subject to this section if the event is conducted under the auspices of a recognized sanctioning body and by permit issued by the fire protection authority having jurisdiction.

(h) As used in this section, “person” means a natural person, partnership, firm, association, corporation, limited liability company, or other legal entity.

SEC. 8.

Section 312.5 of the Vehicle Code is amended to read:

312.5.

(a) An “electric bicycle” or “e-bike” is a bicycle equipped with fully operable pedals and an electric motor that does not exceed 750 watts of power.

(1) A “class 1 electric bicycle,” or “low-speed pedal-assisted electric bicycle,” is a bicycle equipped with a motor that provides assistance only when the rider is pedaling, that is not capable of exclusively propelling the bicycle, except as provided in paragraph (4), that ceases to provide assistance when the bicycle reaches the speed of 20 miles per hour, and that is not capable of providing assistance to reach speeds greater than 20 miles per hour.

(2) A “class 2 electric bicycle,” or “low-speed throttle-assisted electric bicycle,” is a bicycle equipped with a motor that may be used exclusively to propel the bicycle, and that is not capable of providing assistance when the bicycle reaches the speed of 20 miles per hour.

(3) A “class 3 electric bicycle,” or “speed pedal-assisted electric bicycle,” is a bicycle equipped with a motor that provides assistance only when the rider is pedaling, that is not capable of exclusively propelling the bicycle, except as provided in paragraph (4), and that ceases to provide assistance when the bicycle reaches the speed of 28 miles per hour, and equipped with a speedometer.

(4) A class 1 or class 3 electric bicycle may have start assistance or a walk mode that propels the electric bicycle on motor power alone, up to a maximum speed of 3.7 miles per hour.

(b) A person riding an electric bicycle, as defined in this section, is subject to Article 4 (commencing with Section 21200) of Chapter 1 of Division 11.

(c) The following vehicles are not electric bicycles under this code and shall not be advertised, sold, offered for sale, or labeled as electric bicycles or “e-bikes:”

(1) A vehicle with motor power of more than 750 watts.

(2) A vehicle capable of attaining a speed greater than 20 miles per hour on motor power alone.

(3) A vehicle with a motor capable of providing assistance when the vehicle reaches a speed exceeding 28 miles per hour.

(4) A vehicle with no more than three wheels powered by an electric motor that is intended by the manufacturer to be modifiable to do any of the following:

(A) Attain more than 750 watts of power.

(B) Attain a speed greater than 20 miles per hour on motor power alone.

(5) A vehicle without operable pedals.

(6) Any motorcycle, motor-driven cycle, moped, motorized scooter, off-highway electric motorcycle, pocket bike, or recreational off-highway vehicle.

SEC. 9.

Section 405 of the Vehicle Code is amended to read:

405.

(a) (1) A “motor-driven cycle” is any motorcycle propelled by an internal combustion engine that displaces less than 150 cubic centimeters, or by an electric motor that produces 5 gross brake horsepower (3,750 watts) or less, and is designed for highway use.

(2) A motor-driven cycle shall comply with all applicable federal motor vehicle safety standards contained in Part 571 (commencing with Section 571.1) of Title 49 of the Code of Federal Regulations, or any successor regulation, have a 17-digit vehicle identification number and a safety certification label, as required in Parts 565 (commencing with Section 565.1) and 567 (commencing with Section 567.1) of Title 49 of the Code of Federal Regulations, and be equipped in accordance with the requirements of this code.

(b) An electric bicycle, moped, motorized scooter, pocket bike, or recreational off-highway vehicle is not a motor-driven cycle and shall not be advertised, sold, offered for sale, or labeled as a motor-driven cycle.

SEC. 10.

Section 406 of the Vehicle Code is amended to read:

406.

(a) (1) A “moped” is a two-wheeled or three-wheeled device that has an electric motor or an internal combustion engine that produces less than 4 gross brake horsepower (3,000 watts), is capable of propelling the device at a maximum speed of not more than 30 miles per hour on level ground, and is designed for highway use.

(2) A moped shall comply with all applicable federal motor vehicle safety standards contained in Part 571 (commencing with Section 571.1) of Title 49 of the Code of Federal Regulations, have a 17-digit vehicle identification number and a safety certification label, as required in Parts 565 (commencing with Section 565.1) and 567 (commencing with Section 567.1) of Title 49 of the Code of Federal Regulations, and be equipped in accordance with the requirements of this code.

(3) An electric bicycle, motor-driven cycle, motorized scooter, pocket bike, or off-highway electric motorcycle is not a moped, and shall not be advertised, sold, offered for sale, or labeled as a moped.

(4) A moped may be equipped with operable pedals for propulsion by human power.

(b) A moped is formerly also referred to as a “motorized bicycle.”

SEC. 11.

Section 407.5 of the Vehicle Code is amended to read:

407.5.

(a) A “motorized scooter” is any two-wheeled device that has handlebars, has either a floorboard that is designed to be stood upon when riding or a seat and footrests in place of the floorboard, and is powered by an electric motor. This device may also be designed to be powered by human propulsion. For purposes of this section, a motorcycle, as defined in Section 400, a motor-driven cycle, as defined in Section 405, or a moped, as defined in Section 406, is not a motorized scooter.

(b) A device meeting the definition in subdivision (a) that is powered by a source other than electrical power is also a motorized scooter.

(c) (1) A manufacturer of motorized scooters shall provide a disclosure to buyers that advises buyers that the buyers’ existing insurance policies may not provide coverage for these scooters and that the buyers should contact their insurance company or insurance agent to determine if coverage is provided.

(2) The disclosure required under paragraph (1) shall meet both of the following requirements:

(A) The disclosure shall be printed in not less than 14-point boldface type on a single sheet of paper that contains no information other than the disclosure.

(B) The disclosure shall include the following language in capital letters:

“YOUR INSURANCE POLICIES MAY NOT PROVIDE COVERAGE FOR ACCIDENTS INVOLVING THE USE OF THIS SCOOTER. TO DETERMINE IF COVERAGE IS PROVIDED, YOU SHOULD CONTACT YOUR INSURANCE COMPANY OR AGENT.”

(d) (1) A manufacturer of motorized scooters shall provide a disclosure to a buyer that advises the buyer that the buyer may not modify or alter the exhaust system to cause that system to amplify or create an excessive noise, or to fail to meet applicable emission requirements.

(2) The disclosure required under paragraph (1) shall meet both of the following requirements:

(A) The disclosure shall be printed in not less than 14-point boldface type on a single sheet of paper that contains no information other than the disclosure.

(B) The disclosure shall include the following language in capital letters:

“YOU MAY NOT MODIFY OR ALTER THE EXHAUST SYSTEM OF THIS SCOOTER TO CAUSE IT TO AMPLIFY OR CREATE EXCESSIVE NOISE PER VEHICLE CODE SECTION 21226, OR TO FAIL TO MEET APPLICABLE EMISSION REQUIREMENTS PER VEHICLE CODE 27156.”

SEC. 12.

Section 426 of the Vehicle Code is amended to read:

426.

“New motor vehicle dealer” is a dealer who, in addition to the requirements of that section, either acquires for resale new and unregistered motor vehicles from manufacturers or distributors of those motor vehicles or acquires for resale new off-highway motorcycles, off-highway electric motorcycles, or all-terrain vehicles from manufacturers or distributors of the vehicles. A distinction shall not be made, nor any different construction be given to the definition of “new motor vehicle dealer” and “dealer” except for the application of the provisions of Chapter 6 (commencing with Section 3000) of Division 2 and Sections 4456, 4750.6, and 11704.5. Sections 3001 and 3003 do not, however, apply to a dealer who deals exclusively in motorcycles, all-terrain vehicles, or recreational vehicles, as defined in subdivision (a) of Section 18010 of the Health and Safety Code.

SEC. 13.

Section 472 of the Vehicle Code is amended to read:

472.

A “pilot car” is a motor vehicle, except a motorcycle, moped, or motorized quadricycle, which is used to escort one or more other vehicles, when required, due to the vehicles’ size or character of load, in accordance with conditions set forth in a permit issued by the appropriate state agency or by a local authority.

SEC. 14.

Section 672 of the Vehicle Code is amended to read:

672.

(a) “Vehicle manufacturer” is any person who produces from raw materials or new basic components a vehicle of a type subject to registration under this code, off-highway motorcycles, off-highway electric motorcycles, or all-terrain vehicles subject to identification under this code, or trailers subject to identification pursuant to Section 5014.1, or who permanently alters, for purposes of retail sales, new commercial vehicles by converting the vehicles into house cars that display the insignia of approval required by Section 18056 of the Health and Safety Code and any regulations issued pursuant thereto by the Department of Housing and Community Development. As used in this section, “permanently alters” does not include the permanent attachment of a camper to a vehicle.

(b) A vehicle manufacturer that produces a vehicle of a type subject to registration that consists of used or reconditioned parts, for the purposes of the code, is a remanufacturer, as defined in Section 507.8.

(c) Unless a vehicle manufacturer either grants franchises to franchisees in this state, or issues vehicle warranties directly to franchisees in this state or consumers in this state, the manufacturer shall have an established place of business or a representative in this state.

(d) The scope and application of this section are limited to Division 2 (commencing with Section 1500) and Division 5 (commencing with Section 11100).

SEC. 15.

Section 4020 of the Vehicle Code is amended to read:

4020.

A moped operated upon a highway is exempt from registration.

SEC. 16.

The heading of Article 8.1 (commencing with Section 5030) of Chapter 1 of Division 3 of the Vehicle Code is amended to read:

Article 8.1. Mopeds

SEC. 17.

Section 5030 of the Vehicle Code is amended to read:

5030.

A moped is required to display a special license plate issued by the department.

SEC. 18.

Section 5031 of the Vehicle Code is amended to read:

5031.

An application by a person other than a manufacturer or dealer for a license plate for a moped shall include all the following:

(a) The true, full name and the driver’s license or identification card number, if any, of the owner.

(b) A description of the moped, including any distinctive marks or features.

(c) Other information as may reasonably be required by the department to determine whether a license plate shall be issued for the moped.

SEC. 19.

Section 5032 of the Vehicle Code is amended to read:

5032.

(a) The application for a special license plate for a moped shall be made before the moped is operated or moved upon a highway, except that, upon the retail sale of a moped when there is no license plate, the operator may operate the moped for a period of five days from and including the date of sale, at which time application shall be made to the department for a special license plate. If the fifth day should fall on Saturday, Sunday, or a holiday, the application shall be made on the first business day thereafter.

(b) The five-day operating provision set forth in subdivision (a) shall apply only if the operator has in their immediate possession evidence that the moped was purchased within the last five days including the date of sale.

SEC. 20.

Section 5033 of the Vehicle Code is amended to read:

5033.

Upon proper application and payment of the fees specified in Section 5036, the department shall issue a special license plate and an identification card for the moped for which application was made. Applications may be submitted by mail unless the department determines that it is not feasible to complete the identification process by such method.

SEC. 21.

Section 5034 of the Vehicle Code is amended to read:

5034.

(a) The department may issue a special license plate or other suitable device to a manufacturer or dealer of mopeds upon payment of the fee specified in Section 5036. The license plate shall be of a size, color, and configuration determined by the department. The form of the application shall also be determined by the department.

(b) A manufacturer or dealer of mopeds may operate or move a moped upon the highways during the delivery of, or during the demonstration for the sale of, the moped if the moped displays thereon a license plate or other suitable device issued to the manufacturer or dealer.

SEC. 22.

Section 5035 of the Vehicle Code is amended to read:

5035.

Each license plate issued under Section 5033 shall bear a distinctive number to identify the moped for which it is issued and shall bear a symbol, letter, or word to distinguish license plates issued under this article from license plates issued for motorcycles and motor-driven cycles. The owner, upon being issued a license plate, shall attach it to the moped for which it is issued and shall carry the identification card issued by the department as provided in Section 4454. It shall be unlawful for any person to attach or use the license plate upon any other moped or vehicle. If the moped is destroyed, the owner shall destroy the license plate and shall within 10 days notify the department on a form approved by the department that the moped and license plate have been destroyed.

If the ownership of the moped is transferred to another person, that person shall submit, within 10 days, proper application as provided in Section 5031. The license plate shall remain with the moped.

SEC. 23.

Section 5036 of the Vehicle Code is amended to read:

5036.

A service fee of fifteen dollars ($15) shall be paid for the issuance or transfer of a special license plate for mopeds. Publicly owned mopeds are exempt from the fee.

SEC. 24.

Section 5037 of the Vehicle Code is amended to read:

5037.

(a) A moped first sold on or after July 1, 1981, shall not be moved or operated upon a highway unless the owner first makes application for a license plate and, when received, attaches it to the moped as provided in this article.

(b) Mopeds first sold prior to July 1, 1981, shall not be moved or operated upon a highway after January 1, 1982, unless the owner makes application for a license plate and, when received, attaches it to the moped as provided in this article.

SEC. 25.

Section 5038 of the Vehicle Code is amended to read:

5038.

The department shall establish a record system that provides for identification of stolen mopeds.

SEC. 26.

Section 5039 of the Vehicle Code is amended to read:

5039.

Notwithstanding any other provision of law, no dealer, manufacturer, salesman, or representative of mopeds exclusively is required to be licensed or permitted pursuant to Chapter 4 (commencing with Section 11700) of Division 5.

SEC. 27.

Section 12500 of the Vehicle Code is amended to read:

12500.

(a) A person may not drive a motor vehicle upon a highway, unless the person then holds a valid driver’s license issued under this code, except those persons who are expressly exempted under this code.

(b) A person may not drive a motorcycle, motor-driven cycle, or moped upon a highway, unless the person then holds a valid driver’s license or endorsement issued under this code for that class, except those persons who are expressly exempted under this code, or those persons specifically authorized to operate mopeds or motorized scooters with a valid driver’s license of any class, as specified in subdivision (h) of Section 12804.9.

(c) A person may not drive a motor vehicle in or upon any offstreet parking facility, unless the person then holds a valid driver’s license of the appropriate class or certification to operate the vehicle. As used in this subdivision, “offstreet parking facility” means any offstreet facility held open for use by the public for parking vehicles and includes any publicly owned facilities for offstreet parking, and privately owned facilities for offstreet parking where no fee is charged for the privilege to park and which are held open for the common public use of retail customers.

(d) A person may not drive a motor vehicle or combination of vehicles that is not of a type for which the person is licensed.

(e) A motorized scooter operated on public streets shall at all times be equipped with an engine that complies with the applicable State Air Resources Board emission requirements.

SEC. 28.

Section 12509 of the Vehicle Code is amended to read:

12509.

(a) Except as otherwise provided in subdivision (f) of Section 12514, the department, for good cause, may issue an instruction permit to a physically and mentally qualified person who meets one of the following requirements and who applies to the department for an instruction permit:

(1) Is 15 years and 6 months of age or older, and has successfully completed approved courses in automobile driver education and driver training as provided in paragraph (3) of subdivision (a) of Section 12814.6.

(2) Is 15 years and 6 months of age or older, and has successfully completed an approved course in automobile driver education and is taking driver training as provided in paragraph (3) of subdivision (a) of Section 12814.6.

(3) Is 15 years and 6 months of age and enrolled and participating in an integrated automobile driver education and training program as provided in subparagraph (B) of paragraph (3) of subdivision (a) of Section 12814.6.

(4) Is over 16 years of age and is applying for a restricted driver’s license pursuant to Section 12814.7.

(5) Is over 17 years and 6 months of age.

(b) The applicant shall qualify for, and be issued, an instruction permit within 12 months from the date of the application.

(c) An instruction permit issued pursuant to subdivision (a) shall entitle the applicant to operate a vehicle, subject to the limitations imposed by this section and any other provisions of law, upon the highways for a period not exceeding 24 months from the date of the application.

(d) Except as provided in Section 12814.6, a person, while having in their immediate possession a valid permit issued pursuant to paragraphs (1) to (3), inclusive, of, and paragraph (5) of, subdivision (a), may operate a motor vehicle, other than a motorcycle, motorized scooter, or a moped, when accompanied by, and under the immediate supervision of, a California-licensed driver with a valid license of the appropriate class who is 18 years of age or over and whose driving privilege is not subject to probation. An accompanying licensed driver at all times shall occupy a position within the driver’s compartment that would enable the accompanying licensed driver to assist the person in controlling the vehicle as may be necessary to avoid a collision and to provide immediate guidance in the safe operation of the vehicle.

(e) A person, while having in their immediate possession a valid permit issued pursuant to paragraph (4) of subdivision (a), may only operate a government-owned motor vehicle, other than a motorcycle, motorized scooter, or a moped, when taking driver training instruction administered by the California National Guard.

(f) The department may also issue an instruction permit to a person who has been issued a valid driver’s license to authorize the person to obtain driver training instruction and to practice that instruction in order to obtain another class of driver’s license or an endorsement.

(g) The department may further restrict permits issued under subdivision (a) as it may determine to be appropriate to ensure the safe operation of a motor vehicle by the permittee.

SEC. 29.

Section 12509.5 of the Vehicle Code is amended to read:

12509.5.

(a) A person shall obtain an instruction permit issued pursuant to this section before operating, or being issued a class M1 or M2 driver’s license to operate, a two-wheel motorcycle, motor-driven cycle, moped, or bicycle with an attached motor. The person shall meet the following requirements to obtain an instruction permit for purposes of this section:

(1) If age 15 years and 6 months or older, but under the age of 18 years, the applicant shall meet all of the following requirements:

(A) Have a valid class C license or complete driver education and training pursuant to paragraph (3) of subdivision (a) of Section 12814.6.

(B) Successfully complete a motorcyclist safety program that is operated pursuant to Article 2 (commencing with Section 2930) of Chapter 5 of Division 2.

(2) If 18 years of age or older, but under 21 years of age, the applicant shall meet both of the following requirements:

(A) Successfully complete a motorcyclist safety program that is operated pursuant to Article 2 (commencing with Section 2930) of Chapter 5 of Division 2.

(B) Pass the motorcycle driver’s written exam.

(3) If 21 years of age or older, pass the motorcycle driver’s written exam.

(b) A person described in paragraph (1) or (2) of subdivision (a) shall hold an instruction permit issued pursuant to this section for a minimum of six months before being issued a class M1 or M2 license.

(c) A person issued an instruction permit pursuant to this section shall not operate a two-wheel motorcycle, motor-driven cycle, moped, or bicycle with an attached motor during the hours of darkness, shall stay off any freeways that have full control of access and have no crossings at grade, and shall not carry any passenger except an instructor licensed under Chapter 1 (commencing with Section 11100) of Division 5 or a qualified instructor as defined in Section 41907 of the Education Code.

(d) An instruction permit issued pursuant to this section shall be valid for a period not exceeding 24 months from the date of application.

(e) The department may perform, during regularly scheduled computer system maintenance and upgrades, any necessary software updates related to the changes made by the addition, during the 2009–10 Regular Session, of this section.

SEC. 30.

Section 12804.9 of the Vehicle Code, as amended by Section 3 of Chapter 16 of the Statutes of 2025, is amended to read:

12804.9.

(a) (1) The examination shall include all of the following:

(A) A test of the applicant’s knowledge and understanding of the provisions of this code governing the operation of vehicles upon the highways.

(B) A test of the applicant’s ability to read and understand simple English used in highway traffic and directional signs.

(C) A test of the applicant’s understanding of traffic signs and signals, including the bikeway signs, markers, and traffic control devices established by the Department of Transportation.

(D) An actual demonstration of the applicant’s ability to exercise ordinary and reasonable control in operating a motor vehicle by driving it under the supervision of an examining officer. The applicant shall submit to an examination appropriate to the type of motor vehicle or combination of vehicles the applicant desires a license to drive, except that the department may waive the driving test part of the examination for any applicant who submits a license issued by another state, territory, or possession of the United States, the District of Columbia, or the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico if the department verifies through any acknowledged national driver record data source that there are no stops, holds, or other impediments to its issuance. The examining officer may request to see evidence of financial responsibility for the vehicle before supervising the demonstration of the applicant’s ability to operate the vehicle. The examining officer may refuse to examine an applicant who is unable to provide proof of financial responsibility for the vehicle, unless proof of financial responsibility is not required by this code.

(E) A test of the hearing and eyesight of the applicant, and of other matters that may be necessary to determine the mental and physical fitness of the applicant to operate a motor vehicle upon the highways, and whether any grounds exist for refusal of a license under this code.

(2) (A) Before a class A or class B driver’s license, or class C driver’s license with a commercial endorsement, may be issued or renewed, the applicant shall have in the applicant’s driver record a valid report of a medical examination of the applicant given not more than two years before the date of the application by a health care professional. As used in this paragraph, “health care professional” means a person who is licensed, certified, or registered in accordance with applicable state laws and regulations to practice medicine and perform physical examinations in the United States. Health care professionals are doctors of medicine, doctors of osteopathy, physician assistants, and registered advanced practice nurses, or doctors of chiropractic who are clinically competent to perform the medical examination presently required of motor carrier drivers by the United States Department of Transportation. The report shall be on a form approved by the department. In establishing the requirements, consideration may be given to the standards presently required of motor carrier drivers by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration.

(B) The department may accept a federal waiver of one or more physical qualification standards if the waiver is accompanied by a report of a nonqualifying medical examination for a class A or class B driver’s license, or class C driver’s license with a commercial endorsement, pursuant to Section 391.41(a)(3)(ii) of Subpart E of Part 391 of Title 49 of the Code of Federal Regulations.

(3) A physical defect of the applicant that, in the opinion of the department, is compensated for to ensure safe driving ability, shall not prevent the issuance of a license to the applicant.

(b) In accordance with the following classifications, an applicant for a driver’s license shall be required to submit to an examination appropriate to the type of motor vehicle or combination of vehicles the applicant desires a license to drive:

(1) Class A includes the following:

(A) Except as provided in subparagraph (H) of paragraph (3), a combination of vehicles, if a vehicle being towed has a gross vehicle weight rating or gross vehicle weight of more than 10,000 pounds.

(B) A vehicle towing more than one vehicle.

(D) The operation of all vehicles under class B and class C.

(2) Class B includes the following:

(A) Except as provided in subparagraph (H) of paragraph (3), a single vehicle with a gross vehicle weight rating or gross vehicle weight of more than 26,000 pounds.

(B) A single vehicle with three or more axles, except any three-axle vehicle weighing less than 6,000 pounds.

(D) A farm labor vehicle.

(E) A single vehicle with three or more axles or a gross vehicle weight rating or gross vehicle weight of more than 26,000 pounds towing another vehicle with a gross vehicle weight rating or gross vehicle weight of 10,000 pounds or less.

(F) A house car over 40 feet in length, excluding safety devices and safety bumpers.

(G) The operation of all vehicles covered under class C.

(3) Class C includes the following:

(A) A two-axle vehicle with a gross vehicle weight rating or gross vehicle weight of 26,000 pounds or less, including when the vehicle is towing a trailer or semitrailer with a gross vehicle weight rating or gross vehicle weight of 10,000 pounds or less.

(B) Notwithstanding subparagraph (A), a two-axle vehicle weighing 4,000 pounds or more unladen when towing a trailer coach not exceeding 9,000 pounds gross.

(D) A three-axle vehicle weighing 6,000 pounds gross or less.

(E) A house car of 40 feet in length or less or a vehicle towing another vehicle with a gross vehicle weight rating of 10,000 pounds or less, including when a tow dolly is used. A person driving a vehicle may not tow another vehicle in violation of Section 21715.

(F) (i) A two-axle vehicle weighing 4,000 pounds or more unladen when towing either a trailer coach or a fifth-wheel travel trailer not exceeding 10,000 pounds gross vehicle weight rating, when the towing of the trailer is not for compensation.

(ii) A two-axle vehicle weighing 4,000 pounds or more unladen when towing a fifth-wheel travel trailer exceeding 10,000 pounds, but not exceeding 15,000 pounds, gross vehicle weight rating, when the towing of the trailer is not for compensation, and if the person has passed a specialized written examination provided by the department relating to the knowledge of this code and other safety aspects governing the towing of recreational vehicles upon the highway.

(iii) The authority to operate combinations of vehicles under this subparagraph may be granted by endorsement on a class C license upon completion of that written examination.

(G) A vehicle or combination of vehicles with a gross combination weight rating or a gross vehicle weight rating, as those terms are defined in subdivisions (j) and (k), respectively, of Section 15210, of 26,000 pounds or less, if all of the following conditions are met:

(i) Is operated by a farmer, an employee of a farmer, or an instructor credentialed in agriculture as part of an instructional program in agriculture at the high school, community college, or university level.

(ii) Is used exclusively in the conduct of agricultural operations.

(iii) Is not used in the capacity of a for-hire carrier or for compensation.

(H) Firefighting equipment, provided that the equipment is operated by a person who holds a firefighter endorsement pursuant to Section 12804.11.

(I) A motorized scooter.

(J) A bus with a gross vehicle weight rating or gross vehicle weight of 26,000 pounds or less, except a trailer bus.

(K) Class C does not include a two-wheel motorcycle or a two-wheel motor-driven cycle.

(4) Class M1. A two-wheel motorcycle or a motor-driven cycle. Authority to operate a vehicle included in a class M1 license may be granted by endorsement on a class A, B, or C license upon completion of an appropriate examination.

(5) (A) Class M2 includes a moped or a bicycle with an attached motor, except an electric bicycle as described in subdivision (a) of Section 312.5.

(B) Authority to operate vehicles included in class M2 may be granted by endorsement on a class A, B, or C license upon completion of an appropriate examination. Persons holding a class M1 license or endorsement may operate vehicles included in class M2 without further examination.

(c) A driver’s license or driver certificate is not valid for operating a commercial motor vehicle, as defined in subdivision (b) of Section 15210, any other motor vehicle listed in paragraph (1) or (2) of subdivision (b), or any other vehicle requiring a driver to hold any driver certificate or any driver’s license endorsement under Section 15275, unless a medical certificate approved by the department that has been issued within two years of the date of the operation of that vehicle and a copy of the medical examination report from which the certificate was issued is on file with the department. Otherwise, the license is valid only for operating class C vehicles that are not commercial vehicles, as defined in subdivision (b) of Section 15210, and for operating class M1 or M2 vehicles, if so endorsed, that are not commercial vehicles, as defined in subdivision (b) of Section 15210.

(d) A license or driver certificate issued before the enactment of Chapter 7 (commencing with Section 15200) is valid to operate the class or type of vehicles specified under the law in existence before that enactment until the license or certificate expires or is otherwise suspended, revoked, or canceled. Upon application for renewal or replacement of a driver’s license, endorsement, or certificate required to operate a commercial motor vehicle, a valid medical certificate on a form approved by the department shall be submitted to the department.

(e) The department may accept a certificate of driving skill that is issued by an employer, authorized by the department to issue a certificate under Section 15250, of the applicant, in lieu of a driving test, on class A or B applications, if the applicant has first qualified for a class C license and has met the other examination requirements for the license for which the applicant is applying. The certificate may be submitted as evidence of the applicant’s skill in the operation of the types of equipment covered by the license for which the applicant is applying.

(f) The department may accept a certificate of competence in lieu of a driving test on class M1 or M2 applications, when the certificate is issued by a law enforcement agency for its officers who operate class M1 or M2 vehicles in their duties, if the applicant has met the other examination requirements for the license for which the applicant is applying.

(g) The department may accept a certificate of satisfactory completion of a motorcyclist training program approved by the commissioner pursuant to Section 2932 in lieu of a driving test on class M1 or M2 applications, if the applicant has met the other examination requirements for the license for which the applicant is applying. The department shall review and approve the written and driving test used by a program to determine whether the program may issue a certificate of completion.

(h) Notwithstanding subdivision (b), a person holding a valid California driver’s license of any class may operate a short-term rental moped without taking any special examination for the operation of a moped, and without having a class M2 endorsement on that license. As used in this subdivision, “short-term” means 48 hours or less.

(i) A person under 21 years of age shall not be issued a class M1 or M2 license or endorsement unless the person provides evidence satisfactory to the department of completion of a novice motorcycle safety training program that is operated pursuant to Article 2 (commencing with Section 2930) of Chapter 5 of Division 2.

(j) A driver of a vanpool vehicle may operate with a class C license but shall possess evidence of a medical examination required for a class B license when operating vanpool vehicles. In order to be eligible to drive the vanpool vehicle, the driver shall keep in the vanpool vehicle a statement, signed under penalty of perjury, that the driver has not been convicted of reckless driving, drunk driving, or a hit-and-run offense in the last five years.

(k) This section shall remain in effect only until January 1, 2029, and as of that date is repealed.

SEC. 30.5.

Section 12804.9 of the Vehicle Code, as amended by Section 3 of Chapter 16 of the Statutes of 2025, is amended to read:

12804.9.

(a) (1) The examination shall include all of the following:

(A) A test of the applicant’s knowledge and understanding of the provisions of this code governing the operation of vehicles upon the highways.

(B) A test of the applicant’s ability to read and understand simple English used in highway traffic and directional signs.

(C) A test of the applicant’s understanding of traffic signs and signals, including the bikeway signs, markers, and traffic control devices established by the Department of Transportation.

(3) A physical defect of the applicant that, in the opinion of the department, is compensated for to ensure safe driving ability, shall not prevent the issuance of a license to the applicant.

(1) Class A includes the following:

(A) Except as provided in subparagraph (H) of paragraph (3), a combination of vehicles, if a vehicle being towed has a gross vehicle weight rating or gross vehicle weight of more than 10,000 pounds.

(B) A vehicle towing more than one vehicle.

(D) The operation of all vehicles under class B and class C.

(2) Class B includes the following:

(A) Except as provided in subparagraph (H) of paragraph (3), a single vehicle with a gross vehicle weight rating or gross vehicle weight of more than 26,000 pounds.

(B) A single vehicle with three or more axles, except any three-axle vehicle weighing less than 6,000 pounds.

(D) A farm labor vehicle.

(F) A house car over 40 feet in length, excluding safety devices and safety bumpers.

(G) The operation of all vehicles covered under class C.

(3) Class C includes the following:

(B) Notwithstanding subparagraph (A), a two-axle vehicle weighing 4,000 pounds or more unladen when towing a trailer coach not exceeding 9,000 pounds gross.

(D) A three-axle vehicle weighing 6,000 pounds gross or less.

(iii) The authority to operate combinations of vehicles under this subparagraph may be granted by endorsement on a class C license upon completion of that written examination.

(ii) Is used exclusively in the conduct of agricultural operations.

(iii) Is not used in the capacity of a for-hire carrier or for compensation.

(H) Firefighting equipment, provided that the equipment is operated by a person who holds a firefighter endorsement pursuant to Section 12804.11.

(I) A motorized scooter.

(J) A bus with a gross vehicle weight rating or gross vehicle weight of 26,000 pounds or less, except a trailer bus.

(K) Class C does not include a two-wheel motorcycle or a two-wheel motor-driven cycle.

(L) Emergency equipment, provided the equipment is operated by a person who has completed the emergency equipment training described in Section 12528. “Emergency equipment” has the same meaning as that term is defined by Section 12528.

(5) (A) Class M2 includes a ~~motorized bicycle or moped,~~ moped or a bicycle with an attached motor, except an electric bicycle as described in subdivision (a) of Section 312.5.

(h) Notwithstanding subdivision (b), a person holding a valid California driver’s license of any class may operate a short-term rental ~~motorized bicycle~~ moped without taking any special examination for the operation of a ~~motorized bicycle,~~ moped, and without having a class M2 endorsement on that license. As used in this subdivision, “short-term” means 48 hours or less.

(k) This section shall remain in effect only until January 1, 2029, and as of that date is repealed.

SEC. 31.

Section 12804.9 of the Vehicle Code, as amended by Section 4 of Chapter 16 of the Statutes of 2025, is amended to read:

12804.9.

(a) (1) The examination shall include all of the following:

(A) A test of the applicant’s knowledge and understanding of the provisions of this code governing the operation of vehicles upon the highways.

(B) A test of the applicant’s ability to read and understand simple English used in highway traffic and directional signs.

(C) A test of the applicant’s understanding of traffic signs and signals, including the bikeway signs, markers, and traffic control devices established by the Department of Transportation.

(3) A physical defect of the applicant that, in the opinion of the department, is compensated for to ensure safe driving ability, shall not prevent the issuance of a license to the applicant.

(1) Class A includes the following:

(A) Except as provided in subparagraph (H) of paragraph (3), a combination of vehicles, if a vehicle being towed has a gross vehicle weight rating or gross vehicle weight of more than 10,000 pounds.

(B) A vehicle towing more than one vehicle.

(D) The operation of all vehicles under class B and class C.

(2) Class B includes the following:

(A) Except as provided in subparagraph (H) of paragraph (3), a single vehicle with a gross vehicle weight rating or gross vehicle weight of more than 26,000 pounds.

(B) A single vehicle with three or more axles, except any three-axle vehicle weighing less than 6,000 pounds.

(D) A farm labor vehicle.

(F) A house car over 40 feet in length, excluding safety devices and safety bumpers.

(G) The operation of all vehicles covered under class C.

(3) Class C includes the following:

(B) Notwithstanding subparagraph (A), a two-axle vehicle weighing 4,000 pounds or more unladen when towing a trailer coach not exceeding 9,000 pounds gross.

(D) A three-axle vehicle weighing 6,000 pounds gross or less.

(F) (i) A two-axle vehicle when towing a trailer exceeding 10,000 pounds, but not exceeding 15,000 pounds gross vehicle weight rating or gross vehicle weight, if all of the following conditions are met:

(I) The towing of the trailer is not for compensation or commercial purposes.

(II) The trailer is coupled to the towing vehicle by a bed-mounted gooseneck hitch or a fifth-wheel and kingpin connection.

(III) The trailer is used exclusively for recreational purposes.

(IV) The trailer is used for the transportation of property or human habitation, or both.

(V) The person has passed a specialized written examination provided by the department relating to the knowledge of this code and other safety aspects governing the towing of recreational vehicles upon the highway.

(ii) A vehicle towing a fifth-wheel travel trailer exceeding 10,000 pounds, but not exceeding 15,000 pounds, gross vehicle weight rating or gross vehicle weight, when the towing of the trailer is not for compensation, and if the person has passed a specialized written examination provided by the department relating to the knowledge of this code and other safety aspects governing the towing of recreational vehicles upon the highway.

(iii) The authority to operate combinations of vehicles under this subparagraph may be granted by endorsement on a class C license upon completion of that written examination.

(ii) Is used exclusively in the conduct of agricultural operations.

(iii) Is not used in the capacity of a for-hire carrier or for compensation.

(H) Firefighting equipment, provided that the equipment is operated by a person who holds a firefighter endorsement pursuant to Section 12804.11.

(I) A motorized scooter.

(J) A bus with a gross vehicle weight rating or gross vehicle weight of 26,000 pounds or less, except a trailer bus.

(K) Class C does not include a two-wheel motorcycle or a two-wheel motor-driven cycle.

(5) (A) Class M2 includes a moped or a bicycle with an attached motor, except an electric bicycle as described in subdivision (a) of Section 312.5.

(k) This section shall become operative on January 1, 2029.

SEC. 31.5.