New Jersey Passes Nation’s Most Restrictive E-bike Law

Riders must be over 15 and pass a written and road test to license any type of electric bicycle.

1 minute read

January 22, 2026, 5:00 AM PST

By Diana Ionescu @aworkoffiction


People riding bikes onboardwalk in Atlantic City, New Jersey.

ames Kirkikis / Shutterstock

New Jersey Gov. Phil Murphy signed a law that requires people riding all types of electric bikes to get a license. 

As an article by Brendan Brightman for NBC Philadelphia explains, the law applies to all e-bikes, including those with fully operable pedals. “To obtain a motorized bicycle license, riders must be at least 15 years old, have six points of ID, pass a written and vision test and take a road test after having a permit for at least 20 days, according to the NJ MVC's website.”

Residents with a valid vehicle driver’s license don’t need an additional e-bike license. However, e-bikes will require registration and insurance, which could have a chilling effect on the growing industry. 

Sunday, January 18, 2026 in NBC Philadelphia

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