Electric Bicycles and Electric Scooters

Electric Bicycles and Electric Scooters

New Jersey Law and Safety Guidance

Electric bicycles and electric scooters, often referred to as micromobility devices, are increasingly common on New Jersey roadways. As their use has expanded, crash data and safety concerns have increased statewide. In response, New Jersey lawmakers updated regulations governing how these devices may be operated.

Law enforcement did not create these rules. Police are responsible for enforcing the law as written to improve safety for riders, pedestrians, and motorists.

Parental Responsibility

Parents play a critical role in micromobility safety. The majority of complaints and enforcement encounters involve riders under the age of 18.

While officers may stop or cite juvenile riders, parents are responsible for ensuring their children:

• Are legally permitted to operate the device
• Are using equipment that complies with New Jersey law
• Wear required safety gear
• Operate in a safe and responsible manner

Parents may be held financially responsible for violations committed by their children.

Electric Bicycle Classifications

New Jersey law recognizes three classes of electric bicycles based on speed capability and design.

Class 1 Electric Bicycles
Pedal assist only
Motor assistance stops at 20 miles per hour

Class 2 Electric Bicycles
Throttle capable
Motor assistance stops at 20 miles per hour

Class 3 Electric Bicycles
Pedal assist only
Motor assistance stops at 28 miles per hour
Regulated similarly to motorized bicycles

Electric bicycles capable of speeds over 28 miles per hour are not legal for roadway use in New Jersey.

Licensing, Registration, and Insurance

Under current statewide regulations:

• Electric bicycles operated on public roadways require a licensed rider
• Electric bicycles must be registered with the New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission
• Liability insurance is required

Licensing requirements

• Riders age 17 and older must possess a valid New Jersey driver license
• Riders age 15 or 16 must obtain a motorized bicycle license
• Riders under age 15 are not permitted to operate motor assisted electric bicycles

Grace Period

The law includes a six month grace period from the date of enactment (January 19, 2026) to allow riders time to obtain proper licensing, registration, and insurance.

During this period, enforcement emphasis is education and voluntary compliance. (January 19, 2026 - July 19, 2026)

Electric Scooters

Electric scooters are regulated separately from electric bicycles.

General requirements include:

• Maximum speed approximately 19 miles per hour
• Helmet required for riders under age 17
• No license, registration, or insurance required
• Must follow all applicable traffic laws

Sidewalk riding and parking may be regulated by local municipal ordinance.

Motorized Bicycles

Motorized bicycles include:

• Electric bicycles capable of speeds between 20 and 28 miles per hour
• Gas powered pedal bicycles with engines under 50 cc

Motorized bicycles require:

• A valid driver license or motorized bicycle license
• Registration with the MVC
• Insurance coverage
• Helmet use

What to Expect from Police

Police enforcement focuses on safety and compliance.

Officers may:

• Stop riders for unsafe or reckless operation
• Verify licensing, registration, and insurance
• Contact parents when juveniles are involved
• Remove illegally operated devices from the roadway

Final Reminder

Not all electric bikes and scooters sold online or in stores are legal for use on New Jersey roadways.

Buying the device does not make it legal.
Speed capability, rider age, licensing, and configuration matter.