New Jersey’s new law governing electric bikes (e-bikes) will go into effect on July 19. The legislation signed in January by then-Governor Phil Murphy provided a six-month grace period for enforcement, with an opportunity to educate the public about the upcoming changes around e-bikes and motorized bicycles and mopeds. E-bikers will now have six months to comply with the new law.
Essentially, the law replaced the previous three-tier system of e-bike classification with two tiers: pedal-assist e-bikes that can go as fast as 20 MPH, and motorized bicycles and mopeds, which can go up to 21 and 28 MPH or bikes that can use throttles to reach up to 15 MPH.
Here’s what you need to know if you plan to operate an e-bike in New Jersey:
- To operate an e-bike, you must be at least 15 years old and have an e-bike license or a driver’s license.
- E-bikes must be registered with the New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission (MVC)
This New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission page explains everything you’ll need to know about e-bikes, the step-by-step registration process, and more information for e-bike retailers, commercial renters and even out-of-state residents.
What about registration and insurance for an e-bike?
Only motorized bicycles, or mopeds, require insurance coverage. Low-speed e-bikes don’t require insurance but they must be registered with the MVC.
What’s the difference between motorized bikes and low-speed e-bikes? Mainly, speed and motors. Low-speed e-bikes provide riders with assistance while pedaling up to 20 MPH. Motorized bicycles and mopeds are the ones that can go much faster. Essentially, they are pedal bicycles equipped with some type of motor assistance, such as:
- A motor of a maximum of 50 cc’s or rated at no more than 1.5 brake horsepower
- A throttle that can be used to propel the bicycle up to 15 MPH on its own
- A motor that provides assistance when the rider is pedaling and has a maximum speed of 21 MPH and 28 MPH on a flat surface
- An electric motor that can propel a bicycle faster than 15 MPH using a throttle, with a maximum motor-powered speed of 28 MPH
So, what’s your first step? Schedule an appointment at the MVC to register your e-bike, then complete the registration form along with the parent consent form if you are younger than 18, and present six points of identification. You’ll also have to provide proof of ownership of your e-bike. This can be accomplished with either a Manufacturer’s Certificate of Origin (MCO), a purchase receipt, a notarized bill of sale, or an affidavit from the current owner.
Once you’ve completed those steps, the last thing you’ll need to do is place your e-bike license plate stickers on both sides of the front fork of your e-bike.
If you don’t have a valid New Jersey driver’s license, you’ll have to apply for an e-bike license, which includes the e-bike permit process but also a road test. The $5 exam fee will be waived until January 2027. Remember, the MVC will have the forms and resources that you will need, such as the 2026 New Jersey E-bike and Moped Manual.
Some other things to remember:
- A helmet will be mandatory for all e-bike riders, regardless of age
- Children younger than 15 years old are prohibited from operating e-bikes
- If you’re renting a low-speed e-bike (less than 21 MPH), such as a CitiBike or other type of bike share, you are not required to be in possession of a driver license or an e-bike license, however, you must be at least 16 years old.
There are plenty of other resources in the state if you need more help, such as the NJ MVC website, along with the New Jersey Bicycle & Pedestrian Resource Center.