Following a sharp rise in e-bike crashes, New Jersey’s Governor, Phil Murphy, signed Senate Bill S4834/Assembly A6235 into law on January 19, 2026, establishing new requirements to operate motorized bicycles (e-bikes) in the state. Full enforcement and penalty phases for the new requirements became effective on July 2026.

Under New Jersey law, “e-bikes” are now divided into two categories: 1) “low-speed electric bicycles” and “motorized bicycles.”  A “low-speed electric bicycle” is a two- or three-wheeled bike with working pedals and a sub-750-watt motor that either (a) has a motor assisting only while pedaling, cutting off at 20 mph or (b) has a motor that can propel the bike on its own, but still cuts off at 20 mph. N.J.S.A § 39:1-1 (2025). A “motorized bicycle” is a pedal bike with a small helper motor (eg. under 50cc, less than 1.5 horse-power, electric, etc) capped at 25 mph, or a pedal bike with an electric motor that has a maximum speed between 21 mph and 28 mph on a flat surface (excluding anything already classified as a low-speed electric bicycle or scooter.) N.J.S.A § 39:1-1 (2025).

To operate an e-bike, a person must (1) be at least 17 years of age with a basic driver’s license, or (2) be at least 15 years of age with a motorized bicycle license obtained by proving identity/age and passing an exam as to “the person’s ability as an operator.” S. 4834, 221st Leg., Reg. Sess. (N.J. 2025). This examination includes a test of the applicant’s knowledge of  (1) the bike’s mechanisms to ensure their safe operation, (2) the relevant laws, (3) ordinary usages of the road, and (4) a demonstration of “[their] … ability to operate a motorized bicycle.” S. 4834, 221st Leg., Reg. Sess. (N.J. 2025).

Additionally, all e-bikes, now require registration with the New Jersey Motor Vehicle Administration. However, insurance is only required for motorized bicycles. S. 4834, 221st Leg., Reg. Sess. (N.J. 2025)

If you are unsure how these rules apply to your situation, or if you have been injured in an e-bike accident, the attorneys at Porter Thomas Grabell & Baumwoll P.C. are available to assist you. Please contact us at (201) 569-5959 to schedule a consultation.