New Jersey’s New E-Bike Law: What You Should Know

Electric bicycles have become a common sight on New Jersey roads, bike paths, and neighborhoods. As their popularity has grown, so have concerns about rider safety, pedestrian injuries, and liability following accidents.

To address these issues, New Jersey enacted P.L. 2025, Chapter 285, which significantly changes how many electric bicycles are regulated. The law introduces new licensing and registration requirements, creates a new category of higher-powered electric bicycles, and establishes additional responsibilities for riders and retailers.

Some of the key points include:

Registration Is No Longer Optional for Many Riders

  • One of the most significant changes is that low-speed electric bicycles are now subject to registration through the New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission (MVC).

New Licensing Requirements

  • Individuals under the age of 15 may not operate a low-speed electric bicycle or motorized bicycle.
  • Riders ages 15 and 16 must obtain a motorized bicycle license or permit.
  • Riders 17 and older must possess either a valid driver's license or a motorized bicycle license or permit.

New Insurance Requirements

  • E-Bike operators are now required to carry liability insurance.

A New Classification for High-Powered E-Bikes

The legislation creates a new category known as an electric motorized bicycle for two-wheeled vehicles equipped with fully operable pedals that:

  • produce more than 750 watts of power, and
  • are capable of speeds exceeding 28 miles per hour.

Modifications Could Create Additional Liability

The law prohibits riders from modifying low-speed electric bicycles to increase their motor-powered speed. It also prohibits the sale of modification kits intended to convert a compliant e-bike into a higher-powered motorized bicycle or electric motorized bicycle.

If you have any questions about the information in this post or if you would like to learn more on this topic, you can contact Joshua Filzer at jfilzer@hoaglandlongo.com, Joseph Leone at jleone@hoaglandlongo.com, or 732-545-4717.

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