New E-Bike Requirements May Cause Speed Bumps for Riders

This summer, the state of New Jersey began implementing new e-bike rules for all residents and visitors. All e-bike owners and renters should become aware of the new requirements.

Firstly, what is an e-bike? The law defines “e-bike” as both low-speed electric bicycles with a motor that only provides assistance while pedaling up to 20 miles per hour (mph) as well as motorized bicycles equipped with either a helper motor or an electric motor.

New Jersey requires that you must be at least 15 years old to operate an e-bike and have an e-bike license or a valid driver’s license. An individual may not apply for nor receive a motorized bicycle license if their driving privileges are suspended or revoked.

All e-bikes, including low-speed ones, must be registered with the New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission (NJMVC). Visit www.nj.gov/mvc/vehicletopics/ebike.htm to make a NJMVC appointment, complete e-bike registration materials and learn more about the e-bike license process. Motorized e-bikes—not low-speed ones—are required to have insurance coverage and owners should secure insurance prior to NJMVC registration.

If you are looking to rent an e-bike in New Jersey, you must be at least 16 years old. Renters are not required to be in possession of a driver’s license or an e-bike license. Out-of-state visitors who bring their own personal e-bikes into New Jersey must comply with the state’s rules. This means they must be at least 15 years old, carry a valid license from their home jurisdiction, register the bike with the NJMVC and get insurance for a motorized e-bike.

The state law requires all e-bike riders aged 17 and under to wear helmets. However, several New Jersey municipalities have instituted more stringent e-bike requirements, including additional helmet regulations. Riders are encouraged to review local municipal e-bike rules before visiting. Visit njbikeped.org for detailed guidelines.