Starting June 26, the New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission (NJMVC) will begin appointments for customers to obtain licenses and registrations to operate e-bikes, in accordance with a law (P.L.2025, c.285) enacted in January 2026.
“We’ve worked hard to update our processes and resources to begin issuing licenses and registrations for e-bike riders in New Jersey,” said Acting NJMVC Chief Administrator Rosalie Johnson. “We strongly encourage e-bike riders to utilize the guidance on the NJMVC’s website to familiarize themselves with new requirements for safe and legal e-bike operation, and to book appointments, as needed, to get their registration and license.”
The specific requirements, and step-by-step instructions, for e-bike licensing and registration are outlined on the NJMVC’s e-bike webpage (https://www.nj.gov/mvc/vehicletopics/ebike.htm). The webpage includes detailed guidance and resources — including relevant forms, FAQs, the NJ Driver Manual, and a newly-updated E-bike & Moped Manual — to simplify and explain the new e-bike requirements.
The term “e-bike” commonly refers to both low-speed electric bicycles and motorized bicycles as defined by N.J.S.A. 39:1-1:
- Low-speed electric bicycle — a pedal assisted bicycle with a helper motor that only provides assistance while pedaling up to 20 mph.
- Motorized bicycle — a pedal assisted bicycle with either:
- An engine under 50 cubic centimeters;
- An electric motor that provides assistance while pedaling or with a throttle up to 28 mph; or
- An electric motor that provides assistance while using a throttle, up to 15 mph.
E-bike Usage Requirements Under the New Law
- Age and License
To operate an e-bike in New Jersey, riders must be at least 15 years old and have either (1) an e-bike license or (2) a valid driver license.
- Registration and Insurance
All e-bikes in New Jersey must be registered with the NJMVC.
Only motorized bicycles are required to have insurance coverage.
Low-speed electric bicycles do not require insurance.
- Helmet Use
E-bike riders are required by law to wear a helmet; it is your only protection from serious head injury.
E-bike Licensing
E-bike riders can now schedule initial permit appointments at NJMVC Licensing Centers to begin the process of obtaining a license if they are at least 15 years old and do not already possess a New Jersey driver license. Individuals who already have a valid driver license (ages 17 and up) do not need a separate license to ride an e-bike.
For individuals who do not already have a driver license, they will have to complete a multi-step process that includes obtaining a permit, passing a knowledge test, practicing e-bike operation, and passing a road test before receiving their license to legally ride an e-bike.
Individuals under the age of 18 will also need to provide a completed parent consent form, if a parent or guardian is not accompanying the minor at their appointment.
Visit the NJMVC’s e-bike webpage for more details about e-bike licensing.
E-bike Registration
E-bike registration appointments are now available for booking at NJMVC Vehicle Centers, and the entire process can be completed in a single visit. The first appointments for e-bike registration will be Friday, June 26.
To register an e-bike, customers need to complete a registration form (form BA-49EB), and provide proof of identity, proof of liability insurance (only for those registering motorized bicycles), and proof of ownership, which may include the following:
- A Manufacturer’s Certificate of Origin (MCO);
- Purchase receipt;
- A notarized bill of sale; or
- An affidavit from the current owner, as documented on the registration form.
Individuals under the age of 18 will also need to provide a completed parent consent form, if a parent or guardian is not accompanying the minor at their appointment.
Upon registering the e-bike, riders will receive two (2) license plate stickers to affix and display on both sides of the e-bike’s front fork.
Visit the NJMVC’s e-bike webpage for more details about e-bike registration.
For more information on NJMVC services, visit the Commission’s official website at NJMVC.gov.