Do I need a licence, a helmet and a number plate for a speed pedelec (an e-bike that goes up to 45 km/h)?

What is not allowed, what is required?

• An electric bicycle whose pedal assistance goes up to 45 km/h is a speed pedelec. The rider must be at least 16 years old and hold an AM (moped) or B (car) licence.
• Register the vehicle with the Vehicle Registration Service (DIV) and fit a number plate starting with SP. To register it, you need a certificate of conformity (gelijkvormigheidsattest / certificat de conformité).
• A helmet is compulsory. You can wear a moped helmet or a special bicycle helmet (EN 1078) that also protects your temples and the back of your head.
• If the bike can also move without pedalling, moped liability insurance (BA-verzekering bromfiets) is compulsory. If it only has pedal assistance, family liability insurance (familiale verzekering / assurance familiale) is enough. Insurers do not always agree on this, so ask in writing whether your policy covers the speed pedelec.
• Where the speed limit is 50 km/h or less, you can choose between the cycle path and the road. Where the limit is above 50 km/h and there is a cycle path, you must use it. Riding on the pavement is forbidden.

Penalty and indirect consequences

Why does this rule exist?

A speed pedelec is much faster than an ordinary bicycle. A crash at 45 km/h has serious consequences for the rider and for pedestrians. Registration, a number plate and a licence make sure that riders know the rules and that the vehicle can be identified.