California E-Bike Incentive Program: Get Up to $2,000 Off Your New E-Bike

TL;DR

The California E-Bike Incentive Program launches December 18, 2024, offering point-of-sale vouchers worth up to $2,000 to help income-eligible California residents purchase new electric bicycles through approved retailers. The program, administered by the California Air Resources Board (CARB), provides a $1,750 base incentive plus a $250 bonus for priority applicants living in disadvantaged communities or meeting specific income thresholds. Starting with a soft launch of 1,500 vouchers, this zero-emissions transportation initiative aims to make clean mobility options accessible while reducing transportation costs and supporting California's environmental goals.

Program Overview

The E-bike Voucher Program is set to launch on December 18, 2024, offering a great opportunity for Californians to ride electric bicycles. This program provides point-of-sale vouchers worth up to $2,000 to help income-eligible residents buy new e-bikes through approved retailers. The California Air Resources Board (CARB) is running the program, which includes a $1,750 base incentive and a $250 bonus for priority applicants living in disadvantaged communities or meeting specific income thresholds.

Starting with a soft launch of 1,500 vouchers, this zero-emissions transportation initiative aims to make clean mobility options more accessible while cutting transportation costs and supporting California's environmental goals. The program is planned to run up until August 2025, giving eligible residents plenty of time to take advantage of this green transportation opportunity. By promoting e-bikes, the program hopes to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and improve air quality across the state. If you're interested in joining the e-bike revolution and being part of a cleaner, healthier California, continue reading to if your eligibility, eligible e-bikes, and the application process.

Who is eligible? Eligibility Requirements

To qualify for a voucher worth up to $2,000, you must meet these basic requirements:

• Be at least 18 years old.
• Be a valid California resident.
• Meet household income limits.
• Complete a 12-minute safety training.

Income Qualifications:

Household Size	Maximum Annual Income
1 person	$45,180
2 people	$61,320
3 people	$77,460
4 people	$93,600
5 people	$109,740
6 people	$125,880

Priority Status is given to residents who either:

• Live in a disadvantaged community
• Have income at or below 225% of Federal Poverty Level
• Reside in areas defined by CalEnviroScreen 4.0

To prove eligibility, you'll need:

• Current California Driver's License, AB 60 License, or State ID
• Income verification documents
• Proof of residency

The program allows one voucher per person, with no household limit. After approval, you must purchase your e-bike within 45 days, with a possible 45-day extension.

Which E-Bikes are Eligible?

The program accepts three main types of electric bicycles, each meeting specific safety and quality standards.

Standard E-Bikes

All eligible e-bikes must have these features:

• Motor power ≤ 750 watts
• Working pedals
• Integrated front light powered by the main battery
• Rear light (built-in or removable)
• UL-2849 or EN-15194 certification
• One-year warranty on electrical parts
• Professional assembly

Standard E-Bike Classifications:

Class	Speed Limit	Assistance Type
Class 1	20 mph	Pedal assist only
Class 2	20 mph	Pedal and throttle
Class 3	28 mph	Pedal assist only

Cargo E-Bikes

These bikes must meet standard requirements plus:

• Ability to carry extra passengers
• Design for heavy loads
• Front or rear loading options

Adaptive E-Bikes

Special designs include:

• Electric trikes
• Tandem bikes
• Hand cycles
• Recumbent bikes
• Wheelchair carriers

Not Eligible:

• Used e-bikes
• Conversion kits
• Modified bikes
• Non-certified models
• Scooters or mopeds

For the full list of eligible e-bikes, please refer to the official list as of December 13th, 2024.

How to Claim: The Application Process

Getting your e-bike voucher involves a simple eight-step process that starts with an online application. Here's what you need to do:

Step 1: Create Your Account

• Set up login credentials with your full name.
• Provide a valid email address.
• Choose a secure password.

Step 2: Submit Required Documents

• Upload your California driver's license or state ID.
• Provide income verification through a federal tax transcript.
• Complete basic contact information.

Step 3: Complete Safety Training

• Watch required e-bike safety videos.
• Review climate impact training materials.
• Sign terms and conditions

Step 4: Receive Approval

Your approval notification includes:

• Confirmed incentive amount
• Unique voucher code
• 45-day redemption period

Step 5: Choose Your E-Bike

What to Consider	Details
Retailer	Must be state-approved
E-Bike Type	Class 1, 2, or 3
Certification	UL or EN standards
Features	Integrated lights, warranty

Step 6: Redeem Your Voucher

• Visit an approved retailer.
• Present your voucher code.
• Get an instant discount at purchase.

Important Timeline:

• Vouchers expire after 45 days.
• One-time 45-day extension available if needed.
• Must complete follow-up surveys at 90 days and one year.

Note: The program works as a point-of-sale discount, meaning you'll never handle the incentive funds directly. The retailer applies the discount immediately when you make your purchase.

The first e-bike incentive application window opens on December 18th, 2024, at 6 pm PST. To apply through their official website, click here.

E-Bikes: The Rising Global Trend

The global e-bike revolution is transforming transportation, with the market projected to surge from $48.7 billion in 2024 to $71.5 billion by 2030. This remarkable growth, driven by a 6.6% CAGR, reflects increasing urban mobility needs and environmental awareness. Currently, nearly 300 million e-bikes are in use worldwide, with China leading adoption, followed by Europe and North America. The surge is particularly notable in the US, where e-bike sales outpaced electric car sales since 2020. Key factors driving this trend include rising fuel costs, government incentives, and technological advancements in battery life and charging speeds.

California's E-Bike Incentive Program aligns perfectly with this global trend, offering up to $2,000 in vouchers to income-eligible residents. With $31 million in funding to support approximately 15,000 vouchers, this program represents California's commitment to making sustainable transportation accessible to all residents. The initiative not only helps reduce transportation costs but also supports the state's broader goals of reducing greenhouse gas emissions and promoting clean mobility options. As the global e-bike market continues its upward trajectory, California's program serves as a model for how government initiatives can accelerate the adoption of sustainable transportation solutions while ensuring equity and accessibility.

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