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Motorcycle Laws in New Jersey

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This page will answer the most common questions we receive about motorcycle laws and licensing requirements in  New Jersey.

Continue reading to find your answer and follow links to explore some of these topics in greater depth. 

Motorcycle Helmet Law in New Jersey

Motorcycle helmets are required for all riders.

Additionally, eye protection like a face shield or goggles is also required unless the motorcycle has a windshield.

A motorcycle helmet is one of the most important pieces of safety equipment. Wearing one can greatly reduce your chances of being seriously injured or killed if you are involved in a motorcycle crash

Read more about motorcycle helmet laws and safety.

New Jersey Motorcycle Noise Restrictions & Exhaust Requirements

A proper muffler is required and cannot emit excessive or unusual noise.

Noise restrictions may be enforced by local law enforcement or during periodic inspections. 

Local jurisdictions may have their own ordinances regarding motorcycle noise limits.

Motorcycle Safety Inspections and Equipment Requirements

Period safety and equipment inspections for motorcycles in New Jersey are not required.

Some of the equipment requirements for New Jersey motorcycles include:

  • Rearview mirror.
  • Fenders on rear wheels.
  • Handlebar grips no higher than shoulder height.
  • Turn signals.

Motorcycle Passenger Laws in New Jersey

There are no passenger restrictions for motorcycles in New Jersey.

Whenever you ride with a passenger:

  • Be sure to give them instructions on what they’ll need to do. 
  • Make sure they can comfortably reach the passenger handholds and footrests. 
  • Make sure that they are wearing all of the necessary motorcycle safety equipment.

Learn more about riding with passengers on your motorcycle.

Requirements for Daytime Running Lights for Motorcycles in New Jersey

Using daytime headlights is not required for motorcycles in New Jersey.

Using headlights during the day can help to increase your visibility to other drivers. 

This is a smart thing to do regardless of whether the law requires it. 

New Jersey Lane Splitting Laws

Lane splitting is illegal in New Jersey.

There are some nuances to lane splitting, lane filtering, and lane sharing. 

Learn more about lane splitting.

Motorcycle Title Laws & VIN Verifications

The state of New Jersey issues titles to all motorcycles.

If you buy a motorcycle without a title or are moving from a state that doesn’t issue titles, the registration documents and the Bill of Sale should serve as proof of ownership.

Learn more about motorcycle registration and title requirements in New Jersey.

Find some helpful tips for when you buy a motorcycle.

Minimum Motorcycle Insurance Coverage in New Jersey

Motorcycle insurance is required in New Jersey, the minimum coverage limits are:

  • $15,000 bodily injury coverage per person.
  • $30,000 bodily injury coverage per accident.
  • $5,000 property damage coverage per accident. 

Remember, the minimum liability requirements kick in during the event of a collision with another vehicle. If you need more coverage for things like theft, single vehicle collisions, and other types of damage you’ll need to get a policy with comprehensive and collision coverage as well. 

Compare quotes for free, and find cheaper motorcycle insurance

Learn more about motorcycle insurance in New Jersey.

Motorcycle Safety Course Requirements & Details

An approved motorcycle safety course is required for riders under 18 years old to get a motorcycle license in New Jersey.

Completing the course will waive the requirements for the road test and written exam.

A motorcycle safety course is a great way to get familiar with the basics of riding, learn about the most important motorcycle laws, and become a safer, smarter rider. No riding experience is necessary to complete a course.  

Learn more about motorcycle safety courses and Basic Rider Training programs.

Is a Driver’s License Required to get a Motorcycle Endorsement in New Jersey?

Before you get a New Jersey motorcycle license, you will need to already have a standard driver’s license. 

Motorcycle Permit & Licensing Requirements in New Jersey

A motorcycle instruction permit is required for riders who don’t take rider’s training.

If required, you’ll need to hold the learner’s permit and practice riding for at least:

  • 20 days if you hold a valid driver’s license.
  • 6 months if you are under 21 years old.
  • 3 months if you are at least 21.

In order to get the permit, you’ll need to pass a written test.

In New Jersey, motorcycle permit restrictions include no passengers

The permit is valid for up to 90 days for the initial permit, and can be renewed as needed for up to 2 years.

Learn how to get a motorcycle license in New Jersey.

New Jersey Motorcycle License Age Requirements

The minimum age to begin the New Jersey motorcycle licensing process is 18 years old without training or 17 years old if you complete a motorcycle safety course. 

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