New NJ E-Bike Law Impacts Jersey
New Jersey is updating how electric bicycles are regulated statewide, and the changes will directly affect riders and drivers across Cape May County, including shore towns whereE-bike use has surged in recent years.
Former Governor Phil Murphy, on his last day of Governor, signed into law S4834 A6235, a sweeping update to the state’s E-bike laws aimed at improving safety following a series of serious and fatal crashes across New Jersey. The legislation was sponsored by Senate President Nick Scutari and marks the first major update to E-bike regulations in six years.
New NJ E-Bike Law Impacts Jersey
Why The Law Was Updated
State officials say the move comes after a sharp rise in E-bike usage and several deadly incidents involving electric bicycles. Two riders were killed in separate crashes in Scotch Plains and Orange, with additional serious accidents reported in other communities.
With E-bikes becoming more common on local roads, boardwalk-adjacent streets, and shared-use paths, lawmakers said existing rules no longer reflected how these vehicles are actually being used.
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What Counts As An E-bike Under The New Law
The legislation expands the definition of motorized bicycles to include all forms of electric bicycles. That includes pedal bikes with fully operable pedals and an electric motor that assists while pedaling, as well as E-bikes capable of being powered exclusively by the motor.
This broader definition means many riders who were previously operating under looser rules will now be subject to additional requirements.
New Requirements For Riders
Under the new law, owners and operators of electric bicycles will be required to comply with motorized bicycle standards. That includes licensing, registration, and insurance.
To legally operate an E-bike, a rider must be at least 17 years old with a valid driver’s license, or at least 15 years old with a motorized bicycle license. These changes bringE-bikes closer in line with mopeds and other low speed motorized vehicles under state law.
What Drivers Need To Know
The legislation also places new responsibilities on motorists. Drivers are now required to use due caution when approaching or passingE-bikes on the roadway. That includes slowing down, leaving a safe distance, or changing lanes when possible.
For Cape May County, where narrow roads, seasonal traffic, and mixed use streets are common, state officials say the rule is intended to reduce conflicts between cars and electric bike riders.
Why It Matters At The Shore
Electric bikes have become especially popular in shore communities, where residents and visitors often use them for short trips instead of cars. With summer crowds, rentalE-bikes, and increased traffic, lawmakers believe clearer rules will help reduce confusion and improve safety for everyone sharing the road.
The law was co sponsored by Senator Paul Moriarty, Assemblyman James Kennedy, Assemblywoman Linda Carter, and Assemblyman Sterley Stanley. Implementation details and enforcement guidance are expected to follow as state agencies roll out the updated regulations.
For Cape May County riders, the message is clear. Electric bikes are here to stay, but they now come with new responsibilities.