Governor Murphy signed legislation in 2019 changing the law on electric scooters and bicycles or e-scooters and e-bikes.  The previous framework classified these methods of transport as motor vehicles and thus required a license, registration, and insurance to operate on the roadways.  

Since none of these qualified to become registered it was a dead end on the usage unless on private property with permission. 

As of May 2019 there are new regulations under Section 39:4-14.16 - Operation of low-speed electric bicycle or scooter.

The new law states that the bicycle must “meet the requirements of one of  the following classifications: “class 1 low-speed electric bicycle” which means a low-speed electric bicycle equipped with a motor that provides assistance only when the rider is pedaling, and that ceases to provide assistance when the bicycle reaches the speed of 20 miles per hour; or “class 2 low-speed electric bicycle” which means a low-speed electric bicycle equipped with a motor that may be used exclusively to propel the bicycle, and that is not capable of providing assistance when the bicycle reaches the speed of 20 miles.”

Low-speed electric bicycles must follow all the regulations established for traditional bicycles. This means there is no need for a license or registration. However, riders must continue to comply with all the laws that apply to vehicles, such as obeying traffic signals and following the direction of traffic. Like bicycles, e-bikes will be allowed to park on sidewalks, as long as they do not block pedestrian access.

Additionally, the definition of motorized bicycles has been expanded. Aside from continuing to allow gas-powered vehicles, electric bicycles that can achieve speeds between 20 mph and 28 mph now fall under this classification. These vehicles will still require a driver’s license and registration from the MVC.

Low-Speed Electric Bicycles:

• 20 mph max speed
• 750 watts or less
• May be parked on sidewalks without blocking pedestrian traffic
• No license, insurance, or registration required
• Must follow all laws applicable to bicycles
• Helmet use is required for those under age 17
• May be pedal-assist or throttle powered

Low-Speed Electric Scooters:

• 19 mph max speed
• May be parked on sidewalks without blocking pedestrian traffic
• Riding on the sidewalk is up to each municipality and can be regulated by ordinance
• No license, insurance, or registration required
• Must follow all laws applicable to bicycles
• Helmet use is required for those under age 17

Motorized Bicycles

• Electric pedal bicycles that can achieve speeds between 20 and 28 mph
• Gas pedal bicycle with maximum piston displacement under 50 cc
• Require driver license, registration, and insurance
• Helmet use is required

http://njbikeped.org/