California’s Popular E-Bike Incentive Program to Reopen April 29

The state will randomly dole out $2 million in vouchers for applicants to buy new electric bikes.

A Pedego Electric Bike on display in the company's offices in Fountain Valley, Calif., on Jan. 14, 2021. John Fredricks/The Epoch Times

California’s popular program that offers qualified residents up to $2,000 to buy an electric bike will reopen applications April 29.

The application window for the first launch of the state program in December 2024 was closed in less than one hour because of high demand, according to the California Air Resources Board (CARB).

At one point, the online queue had nearly 100,000 people waiting, CARB reported April 10.

“The unprecedented interest in the vouchers shows there is a big need and strong interest in electric bikes in California,” said Steven Cliff, CARB’s executive officer. “The growth of this technology is an important part of our efforts to make zero-emission transportation options available to all Californians.”

The second round will offer $2 million, or about 1,000 vouchers, to eligible applicants who will be picked randomly to ensure a fair distribution, according to CARB.

People can join online waiting rooms between 5 p.m. and 6 p.m. Friday by clicking a button on the state’s website. All applicants who enter the waiting room by 6 p.m. will be put in a queue in random order and have an equal chance to access an application.

To qualify for the rebates, applicants must be California residents age 18 or older. The state verifies residency with a valid California driver’s license; a California AB 60 license, which are available to illegal immigrants living in the state; or an official state ID card.

Applicants must also have a household income of 300 percent of the federal poverty level or less. The federal poverty level is $15,650 of annual income for a one-person household, according to the  U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Three hundred percent of that is $46,950.

For a two-person household, the federal poverty level is $21,150, while a three-person household is set at $26,650. Check here for guidelines.

E-bike voucher applicants must also provide residency and income verification, and meet education and training requirements.

Application approval may take up to 60 days, according to CARB.

The e-bikes that qualify for the program include class 1-3 bikes, which have top speeds of 20 to 28 miles per hour.

Electric bikes make pedaling up hills much easier while enjoying the Kauai Coastal Trail in Hawaii. Janna Graber

The bikes must have an electric motor of less than or equal to 750 watts and have operable pedals.

The bikes must also have an integrated front light that runs off the e-bike battery and has been tested by an accredited laboratory, among other requirements.

Some cargo e-bikes and e-bikes adapted for special needs also qualify.

The voucher program is a collaboration with more than 20 community-based organizations throughout the state, CARB reported. The organizations provide outreach and application help to low-income residents across California.