ARC, City of Atlanta launch e-bike rebate program

The Atlanta E-Bike Rebate Program officially launched on June 16. The Atlanta Regional Commission (ARC) partnered with the City of Atlanta and Propel ATL to offer this equity-focused program that is designed to provide affordable transportation options for Atlantans, particularly moderate- and low-income individuals. Earlier this year, the city of Atlanta invested $1 million in the program to help break down barriers to E-Bike ownership, reduce transportation costs, and replace single-occupant vehicles on the road.

Applications opened on Sunday, June 16, and will run through Sunday, June 23. Only a limited number of E-Bike rebates will be available following the launch of the program. Anyone can apply for the rebate, but recipients will be picked through a lottery selection, with 75% of the checks going to those earning at or below $60,200. Those who meet income criteria can receive $1,500 for a standard e-bike and $2,000 for a cargo e-bike. Non-income-qualified recipients who are selected will receive $500 for a standard e-bike and $1,000 for a cargo e-bike. Once a person is selected, they have 90 days to purchase an e-bike at a participating bike shop in the city.

To apply for the program, applicants must have the following:

• Proof of ID
• Proof of residency
• For income-qualified applicants, you must provide at least one of the following:
• Most recent W-2 or 1099
  • First page of most recent 1040 (Line 11 – Adjusted Gross Income)
  • Unemployment benefits/workers’ comp benefits
  • Proof of employment

For the full application process and eligibility requirements, click HERE.

Estimated Timeline for rebate process:

Still have questions regarding the E-Bike program or E-Bikes in general? Check out our list of FAQs.

What is an E-Bike?

An E-Bike is a bicycle or a tricycle equipped with fully operable pedals, a seat or saddle for the use of the rider, and an electric motor of less than 750 watts. E-bikes are categorized into three categories.

Class 1 bikes are equipped with a motor that provides assistance only when the rider is pedaling, and it stops when the electric bicycle reaches the speed of 20 mph.

Class 2 bikes are equipped with a motor that helps when pedaling up to 20 mph. They are also equipped with a throttle that will power the bike up to 20 mph without pedaling.

Class 3 bikes are equipped with a motor that helps only when the rider is pedaling, and it stops when the electric bicycle reaches the speed of 28 mph.

What is the difference between a standard e-bike and an e-cargo bike? 

A standard e-bike is a Class 1, 2, or 3 e-bike with two or three wheels and fully operable pedals. The electric motor must be 750 watts or less and cannot be gas-powered. An e-cargo bike has an extended frame (a long tail, long john, Bakfiet, or box bike) designed to carry additional people or cargo. The bike’s extended frame must have a published cargo load carrying capacity of at least 100 lbs.

What are the rules for riding an E-Bike? 

In the state of Georgia, you must wear a helmet to ride a Class 3 E-Bike. You must also be at least 15 years old to operate a Class 3 E-Bike. E-bikes are allowed to be ridden on the road, but must be as far right as practical or on a finished shoulder. E-bikes are allowed on all marked bike paths.

Do you need a license or insurance to ride an E-Bike? 

The state of Georgia does not require a license or registration to ride an E-Bike.

Will there be another chance at applying for the rebate? 

Pending funding availability, there are expected to be two additional application rounds for the program-a total of three rounds. Sign up for updates on when the next rebate will happen, HERE.

Once approved for the rebate, where can I buy my e-bike? 

You can buy an e-bike at a participating bike shop in the city. Click here to see what bike shops are participating in the rebate program.

Still have questions? Check out the official Atlanta E-Bike Rebate Program page for more information on the program and e-bikes.