New Law in New Jersey Requires E-Bike Drivers to Have License

A new New Jersey law has changed a few things for local e-bike riders. One of the final acts from former New Jersey Gov. Phil Murphy was a new law with requirements for e-bikes.

The new legislation was signed on Monday, requiring owners and operators of e-bikes to have licenses, registration, and insurance. Owners and operators of e-bikes must be at least 17 years old and have a valid driver's license. Or they will have to be at least 15 years old with a motorized bicycle license under the new law. These laws and regulations cover all types of electric bikes.

"We are in a new era of e-bike use that requires updated safety standards to help prevent accidents, injuries, and fatalities. Requiring registration and licensing will improve their safe use, and having them insured will protect those injured in accidents," said Senate President Nick Scutari, who co-sponsored the bill, reports CBS News.

After an increase in crashes involving e-bikes throughout the state in 2025, the law hopes to eliminate the risk and danger. Multiple deaths of teenagers who were operating e-bikes were reported last year includign death of a 14-year-old last summer.

"Nobody likes more red tape, but the benefits of the new law far outweigh the inconvenience of the new registration requirements," said Ocean City Mayor Jay Gillian in a statement.

To read more, view the full CBS News report here.