New Jersey law governs various aspects of motorcycle riding and safety, including helmet requirements, bike equipment requirements, and rules of the road for motorcyclists. Here are a few of the most significant ones.
New Jersey motorcycle license requirements. All motorcycles must be titled, registered, and insured. Residents operating a motorcycle in New Jersey must have a motorcycle license or an endorsement on their existing driver’s license. A motorcycle license is similar to a driver’s license, but is only for motorcycles. An endorsement, in contrast, is an addition to your current driver’s license that allows you to legally operate a motorcycle as well as a car. New Jersey accepts motorcycle endorsements from other states.
Whether you already have a driver’s license or you want to obtain a motorcycle-only license, if you are under the age of 18 then the first step is to take a Basic Rider Course from an approved provider. Upon successful completion, you’ll receive a stamped waiver form and completion card. If you are older than age 18, you do not need to take this course, but must get a motorcycle permit.
If you are over the age of 18 and already have a driver’s license, you must first apply for a motorcycle permit at your local motor vehicle agency. You must pass vision and knowledge tests. Upon passing these tests, you can schedule a road test on your motorcycle. The road test takes place 20 days after taking your knowledge and vision tests so that you have time to practice.
If you do not have a driver’s license and wish to get a motorcycle-only license, you must practice ride for six months after receiving your permit if you’re younger than age 21, or three months if you’re older than 21, and receive no citations during this time. After this period, you can take your road test; upon successfully passing, you’ll receive a probationary license. For one year, you are not allowed to ride after dark, on state-restricted toll roads, or with passengers. Completing the probationary year qualifies you for a full motorcycle license NJ.
While riding with only a permit, you cannot:
- ride with passengers on your motorcycle.
- ride on any toll road or limited-access highway.
- and, ride after dusk or before dawn.
Safety helmet. New Jersey law provides that “No person shall operate or ride upon a motorcycle unless he wears a securely fitted protective helmet of a size proper for that person and of a type approved by the federal DOT.” Such a helmet must be equipped with either a neck or chin strap and have reflectors on both sides. This law exists for riders’ safety. Unhelmetd riders are three times more likely to die from head injuries in an accident than helmeted riders.
Eye protection. All motorcycle drivers must wear protective eyewear, such as goggles or a face shield, unless the motorcycle has a windscreen.
Lights and reflectors. All motorcycles must have at least one working headlight, but not more than two, along with a brake light, tail light, license plate light, and at least one rear reflector. The law does not require turn signals, but they are an excellent safety feature.
Mirrors. Motorcycles in New Jersey must have at least one rear-view mirror so that the motorcyclist can see all of the vehicles and road hazards in the area.
Passenger seat. Motorcycles designed to carry more than one person must have a passenger seat and adequate passenger footrests.
Handlebar height. Handlebars cannot be higher than the shoulder height of the driver while seated.