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Guide: What the New NJ E-Bike Law Means for Riders and Insurance?
New Jersey enacted strict e-bike legislation requiring registration, licensing, and insurance for all electric bicycles. Learn what this means for riders and how VOOM Insurance can help you comply with the new requirements.
Written by
Team VOOM
In January 2026, New Jersey made history by enacting one of the most comprehensive - and restrictive - e-bike laws in the United States. Governor Phil Murphy signed bills S4834 and A6235 into law, fundamentally changing how electric bicycles are regulated in the Garden State. If you're an e-bike rider in New Jersey, or planning to become one, here's everything you need to know about these new requirements and their impact on insurance.
What Changed in January 2026?
The new legislation treats all electric bicycles regardless of class, as "motorized bicycles" under New Jersey law. This classification brings sweeping new requirements that took effect on January 19, 2026, with a six-month grace period for compliance.
Previously, e-bikes enjoyed relatively relaxed regulations similar to traditional bicycles. Now, they're subject to the same oversight as low-powered motorized vehicles, creating significant new obligations for riders across the state.
The 3 Major Requirements:
1. Mandatory Registration
Every e-bike in New Jersey must now be registered annually with the New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission (NJMVC). This applies to all classes of electric bicycles- Class 1 (pedal-assist up to 20 mph), Class 2 (throttle-assisted up to 20 mph), and Class 3 (pedal-assist up to 28 mph).
2. Licensing Requirements
Operators must hold one of the following:
This means children under 15 cannot legally operate any e-bike in New Jersey, and teenagers aged 15-16 must obtain a special motorized bicycle license to ride.
3. Liability Insurance
Perhaps the most significant change: all e-bike riders must now carry liability insurance. According to the legislation, riders need coverage of at least $35,000 for bodily injury. This requirement puts e-bikes on par with other motor vehicles when it comes to financial responsibility.
As reported by Insurance Journal, this makes New Jersey one of the first states to mandate insurance for all e-bike classes.
Why Did New Jersey Enact This Law?
The legislation was driven primarily by safety concerns. As e-bike usage has surged nationwide - particularly for food delivery services and last-mile commuting - so have accidents and injuries involving electric bicycles. New Jersey lawmakers aimed to address these safety issues through stricter regulation and accountability.
However, the law has faced significant criticism. The Bicycle Coalition of Greater Philadelphia noted that the legislation may disproportionately impact immigrant workers, seniors, and others who rely on e-bikes as their primary transportation but may not have traditional driver's licenses.
Cycling advocacy groups, including PeopleForBikes, have called the law "the most restrictive e-bike law" in the nation and are working to refine it to focus more specifically on high-speed "e-motos" rather than traditional pedal-assist bicycles.
The Insurance Impact: What E-Bike Riders Need to Know?
For many New Jersey e-bike riders, the insurance requirement represents entirely new territory. Here's what you should understand:
Coverage Requirements
You'll need liability insurance that covers at least $35,000 in bodily injury damages. This protects others if you're involved in an accident while riding your e-bike.
Cost Considerations
E-bike insurance is typically much more affordable than traditional motorcycle or auto insurance. Early estimates suggest annual premiums ranging from $75-86 for basic liability coverage, though rates will vary based on factors like your riding history, location, and coverage limits.
Six-Month Grace Period
The law includes a six-month implementation window, giving riders until mid-2026 to secure the required insurance coverage. However, registration and licensing requirements are enforceable immediately.
Proof of Insurance
Like auto insurance, you'll need to carry proof of your e-bike insurance while riding. Digital proof is typically acceptable, but check with your insurance provider for specific requirements.
How VOOM Insurance Can Help?
At VOOM Insurance, we've been preparing for this legislative change and are excited to announce that we will be launching soon an e-bike insurance for New Jersey riders. With years of experience insuring motorcycles and handling thousands of customers annually, we understand the unique needs of two-wheeled vehicle riders.
We're committed to making compliance with New Jersey's new law as straightforward and affordable as possible for e-bike enthusiasts, commuters, and delivery professionals across the state. Register to our waiting list and you'll be the first to know when we launch our e-bike insurance in New Jersey!
What Happens Next?
Discussions are already underway to potentially refine the law. Advocacy groups are pushing for amendments that would:
However, until any changes are enacted, all e-bike riders in New Jersey must comply with the current requirements. The NJMVC is currently working on implementing the registration system and providing guidance for riders.
Get Covered Today
Fill out a quote form today to be among the first to access VOOM's new e-bike insurance when we launch in New Jersey. Our team is ready to answer your questions and help you navigate these new requirements.
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