WA e-bike rebate program to launch April 9. How to apply for the discount of up to $1,200
Discounted electric bikes for thousands of Washingtonians are almost here.
The state’s long-anticipated e-bike rebate program will launch on Wednesday, April 9, 2025, with applications opening at 7:00 a.m. Once the application is launched, you’ll be able to find it on the program’s new website.
What is the e-bike rebate program?
According to WSDOT, the program, which it’s calling WE-Bike, will provide 10,000 Washingtonians with vouchers to be used on e-bikes. Around 6,000 of those are expected to go to low-income households. The vouchers will be $1,200 for households that make 80% of the state’s median income or less, and $300 for households that don’t meet the income criteria.
Vouchers can be redeemed at 100 bike shops across the state that are participating in the program. WSDOT maintains an online map of participating stores. You can also use the voucher to purchase safety equipment for your e-bike. Electric mountain bikes aren’t eligible for the program.
WSDOT contracted APTIM to help create the program’s website, select participating bike shops and administer the program.
In addition to the program, the Washington State Department of Ecology awarded some cities grants for more bikes. Tacoma, for example, got a grant to cover 450 rebates for residents of areas impacted by poor air quality. People who are eligible and fill out the statewide application will be considered for the Tacoma rebate as well.
How to apply for WA e-bike rebate
Beginning April 9, Washingtonians will have two weeks to fill out an application before registration closes on Wednesday, April 23 at 12:00 p.m. The application will ask for your mailing address, email address, phone number and demographic information.
If you’re granted a rebate, WSDOT will notify you by email and you’ll have either 45 days or until June 30, whichever comes first, to use it.
WA e-bike rebate eligibility requirements
In order to qualify for the program, you have to be at least 16 years old and a resident of Washington. You’ll have to provide a mailing address or another form of proof of your Washington residency.
Can you get a free e-bike?
According to REI, the average e-bike costs around $2,000. However, the $1,200 rebate will cover a solid entry-level e-bike, which typically costs around $1,000. There are cheaper options as well, however, REI says that they usually come with concerns about durability and brake quality.
This story was originally published April 8, 2025 at 11:20 AM.