Westminster Christian School is sending families a state e-bike safety brochure at the request of the Palmetto Bay Police Department.

The school announced the effort in an Oct. 18 post on its website, citing growing e-bike popularity among children and teens. Westminster is distributing the Florida Department of Transportation's (FDOT) "E-Bike Safety: Know Before You Ride" brochure, which covers e-bike classifications, legal requirements, where e-bikes may be ridden and key safety precautions.

The school urged parents to review the brochure with their children before they ride.

What Florida law says

Under Florida law, e-bikes are defined as having two or three wheels, fully operable pedals, a seat or saddle and an electric motor of 750 watts or less, according to FDOT. They fall into three classifications based on motor type and top assisted speed.

E-bikes do not require a license, registration or insurance. However, as of July 1, 2025, local governments may require age minimums and government-issued photo ID for riders.

Riders and passengers under age 16 must wear a helmet. FDOT encourages all riders to wear one, noting that e-bike and scooter crashes often happen suddenly with little time to react.

E-bikes follow the same traffic rules as traditional bicycles. All classes may ride on public roads where bikes are permitted. Classes 1 and 2 are allowed on multi-use trails and paths. Class 3 may face local restrictions. Sidewalk and park rules vary by municipality.

FDOT school toolkit

FDOT also offers an E-Bike Safety School Campaign Toolkit geared toward middle and high schools. The toolkit includes brochures, posters, presentations and social media posts. The agency says the materials can also be used in neighborhoods and community organizations.

Westminster Christian, a private college-preparatory school in Palmetto Bay serving preschool through 12th grade, did not name a specific police contact behind the request.

Residents can find the FDOT brochure and toolkit on the department's e-bike safety page.