If your child rides an e-bike, you'll want to pay close attention. Beginning July 19, New Jersey's new e-bike law takes effect after a six-month grace period, and for many families, it could mean your child can no longer legally ride their current e-bike without additional licensing—or at all.
The law is somewhat complex because the rules depend on what type of e-bike you own. Here's a simplified breakdown.
Step 1: Determine What Type of E-Bike You Have
🚴 Low-Speed Electric Bicycle
A low-speed electric bicycle is a pedal-assist bike with an electric motor that only provides assistance while you're pedaling and has a maximum assisted speed of 20 mph.
🛵 Motorized Bicycle (Moped)
Your bike is considered a motorized bicycle if it has any of the following:
- A helper motor with a maximum piston displacement of less than 50cc or rated at 1.5 brake horsepower or less.
- An electric motor that can assist while pedaling or propel the bike using a throttle up to 15 mph.
- A pedal-assist electric motor capable of speeds between 21 and 28 mph.
- A throttle-controlled electric motor capable of speeds over 15 mph, with a maximum motor-powered speed of 28 mph.
What Are the New Rules?
👨👩👧 Riders 17 and Older
Anyone 17 years or older may operate a motorized bicycle with a valid New Jersey driver's license.
👦 Riders 15 & 16 Years Old
Children ages 15 and 16 may still ride a motorized bicycle, but they must first obtain a New Jersey Motorized Bicycle License through the NJ Motor Vehicle Commission (MVC). Those under 15 may not ride on any public road.
To receive the license, applicants must:
✅ Obtain a motorized bicycle permit
✅ Pass a written knowledge test
✅ Pass a road test
✅ Pass a vision test
✅ Complete a 45-day permit period before taking the road test
Current MVC fees are approximately:
- $5 for the examination
- $6 for the license
Total: $11
Applicants must also provide 6 Points of Identification.
What Can Be Used for the 6 Points of ID?
Four-Point Documents (choose one)
- U.S. Birth Certificate (original or certified copy)
- U.S. Passport or Passport Card
- U.S. Department of State Birth Certificate (FS-545 or DS-1350)
- Certificate of Naturalization (N-550 or N-570)
One-Point Documents (up to two)
- Social Security Card
- Current report card or school transcript
- High school diploma or GED
- Bank statement
- Health insurance card
Proof of Address
Examples include:
- Current report card showing your address
- Mail from a school or government agency
- Bank statement
- Checking or savings account statement
Click here for appointment availability (which is current great!)
Registration & Insurance
📝 Registration
All covered e-bikes must be registered with the New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission.
🛡️ Insurance
- Motorized Bicycles require liability insurance.
- Low-Speed Electric Bicycles do not require insurance but do require registration.
Not Sure Which Category Your Bike Falls Into?
If you're unsure how your e-bike is classified, contact:
- Your local police department's non-emergency number, or
- The New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission (MVC) before your child rides.
It's much easier to verify now than risk a citation later.
Bottom Line
🚲 July 19 is an important date for New Jersey families with e-bikes.
Before your child heads out for a ride, make sure you know:
- ✔️ What type of e-bike they have
- ✔️ Whether they need a license
- ✔️ Whether the bike must be registered
- ✔️ Whether insurance is required
Taking a few minutes now could save you time, money, and frustration later.
Please note: Laws, fees, and MVC procedures can change. Always verify the most current requirements with the New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission before applying for permits, licenses, or registration.
