NJ Parents: What the New E-Bike Law Means for Your Kids
Electric bikes are popping up everywhere across New Jersey—kids riding to friends’ houses, teens cruising around town, and families using them instead of cars for short trips. But many parents don’t realize that today’s e-bikes are faster and more powerful than ever, and until recently, there were big gaps in insurance and accountability.
That’s exactly what New Jersey’s new e-bike law is designed to fix.
Why parents should pay attention
Some e-bikes can reach 20+ mph, sharing the road with cars, pedestrians, and other cyclists. Until now, a child or teen could ride certain high-powered e-bikes without insurance, registration, or a license.
If an accident happened, families could be left exposed—facing medical bills or property damage with little or no insurance protection.
This new law brings much-needed clarity and safety.
What’s changing under the new NJ law
The law focuses on higher-powered e-bikes and motorized bicycles, not standard pedal bikes.
If your child rides one of these, here’s what to know:
Liability insurance is now required for certain e-bikes
Registration and licensing are required
Riders under 17 must have a motorized bicycle license
Riders 17 and older may use a standard driver’s license
A 6-month grace period is in place for existing e-bike owners
Shared town or city e-bikes are exempt if riders are 16+ and the fleet is properly registered
How insurance works (and why it matters)
New Jersey isn’t creating a separate e-bike policy. Coverage is handled through personal auto insurance, with the same minimum liability limits required for cars:
$35,000 bodily injury per person
$70,000 bodily injury per accident
$25,000 property damage
Uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage (unless waived)
This protects:
Your child if they’re injured
Other people if your child causes an accident
You, as the parent, from unexpected financial responsibility
The bottom line for NJ families
If your child rides an e-bike—or you’re thinking about buying one—don’t assume it’s “just a bike.” Some models are now legally treated more like motor vehicles, and insurance matters before something goes wrong.
Local NJ call to action
At BIS Improved Insurance Agency, we help New Jersey families:
Figure out whether an e-bike needs insurance
Review existing auto and liability coverage
Make sure kids and parents are properly protected
📍 Local. Family-focused. No pressure.
Before the riding season ramps up, give us a call or send us a message. We’re happy to take a quick look and explain your options—so you can feel confident letting your kids ride.
