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 BicyclesPedal assist onlyMotor assistance stops at 20 miles per hour
Class 2 Electric BicyclesThrottle capableMotor assistance stops at 20 miles per hour
Class 3 Electric BicyclesPedal assist onlyMotor assistance stops at 28 miles per hourRegulated 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.