Deputy proposes more changes for the circulation of electric and motorized bicycles: helmet is the main focus

Bill 4920/25, under analysis in the Chamber of Deputies, establishes new general rules for the circulation of electric and motorized bicycles throughout Brazil. The text, authored by Federal Deputy Dr Victor Linhalis (Podemos – ES), defines a minimum age for drivers, makes the use of helmets mandatory and creates a national registry for these vehicles, in addition to reinforcing measures already established by Resolution No. 996 of Contran.

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The objective of the measure is to standardize traffic rules and increase safety, given the growth in the use of this equipment in cities.

The deputy argues that the increase in accidents with electric bicycles has generated serious consequences for public health, citing the growth of head trauma.

The exponential growth in the use of electric and motorized bicycles, although it represents a welcome advance in sustainable urban mobility, has brought with it a significant increase in the number of accidents”, said Linhalis. He also points out that the requirement of the helmet is “an indispensable measure for the protection of life”.

New rules for riding electric or motorized bicycles

According to the text, the new requirements that most impacted drivers are:

• Minimum age of 15 years.
• Mandatory helmet certified by Inmetro, both for the pilot and for the passenger. Both must also have a visor or goggles.
• Mandatory equipment such as bell, front (white) and rear (red) lighting and side reflectors.
• Express prohibition of the use of cell phones or headphones while driving.

Speed Limits

The proposal also sets specific speed limits. These also reinforce rules implemented in Contran Resolution No. 996, of June 15, 2023, which came into force in its entirety in 2026.

In the changes, it is expressed that the speed limits for electric and motorized bicycles are:

• 6 km/h in pedestrian circulation areas and sidewalks (allowed only where there is no bike lane);
• 25 km/h on bike lanes and bike lanes;
• 32 km/h on other urban roads (with authorization).

Combating adulteration

The bill also prohibits modifying the original power or top speed of bicycles. Anyone caught with an adulterated vehicle will suffer a fine and seizure of the bicycle. Workshops and stores that perform this service may be interdicted and pay a double fine.

The text also creates the National Registry of Electric Bicycles (CNBE), which will be free and linked to the owner’s CPF or CNPJ. Bicycles must have a QR Code to facilitate inspection and identification in cases of theft or robbery.

• Delivery app companies that use these vehicles must train their delivery workers on road safety and require compliance with the law. Failure to comply can lead to the suspension of the company’s activities.

Next steps for the PL of electric or motorized bicycles

The proposal, which is being processed in a conclusive manner, will be analyzed by the committees of Industry, Commerce and Services; Road and Transport; Finance and Taxation; and Constitution and Justice and Citizenship.

Contran Resolution No. 996, of June 15, 2023

On June 15, 2023, the National Traffic Council (Contran) published Resolution No. 996 with the objective of establishing clear technical criteria for the circulation, on public roads, of mopeds, electric bicycles, and self-propelled individual mobility equipment. The rule came into force in a staggered manner and had its adaptation period ended in December 2025, becoming fully effective in 2026.

According to the rule, the following are considered:

• Bicycle – human-propelled vehicle, with two wheels, not equivalent to a motorcycle, scooter or moped.
• Self-propelled individual mobility equipment – vehicle with one or more wheels, with or without a self-balancing system, electric motor with up to 1,000 W of maximum rated power, speed limited to 32 km/h, maximum width of 70 cm and wheelbase of up to 130 cm.
• Electric bicycle – must meet the same limits as self-propelled bicycles, but with a pedal assist system, in which the motor works primarily when the driver pedals. Auxiliary mode without pedal up to 6 km/h is allowed.

If the vehicle exceeds the established power or speed limits, it is no longer classified as an electric or self-propelled bicycle and is now classified as a moped, scooter or motorcycle — categories that require registration, registration and qualification (ACC or category A).

The resolution also establishes mandatory equipment for electric and self-propelled bicycles, such as a bell, front, rear and side night signaling, as well as an electronic speed limiter device. For mopeds, requirements similar to those for other motor vehicles apply, including rearview mirrors, headlight, taillight, horn, speedometer and use of helmet.

The text also provides for an express exception for equipment intended for the locomotion of people with disabilities or reduced mobility, which remain exempt from the requirements of the rule.