New Jersey implements new ebike licensing and registration law

Outgoing New Jersey governor Pat Murphy signed S-4834, a law requiring anyone who owns or rides a pedal-assist or throttle bike to be at least 15 years old and hold a license. The law also mandates that riders register their ebikes with the Motor Vehicle Commission and requires insurance for bikes traveling faster than 20 mph. Reports indicate widespread confusion at local Motor Vehicle Commission branches regarding the new rules.

The new regulations establish one of the country’s first major licensing experiments for ebikes, directly impacting the retail and operational environment for two-wheeled motorized vehicles in New Jersey. The law was motivated by a dramatic increase in ebike use and related dangers.