New Jersey Motorcycle Laws
The state of New Jersey is the most heavily populated state within the United States. It’s about 13 thousand times the national average, which means there are a lot of motorists on the roads. This means you should be extra careful when operating a motorcycle. Knowing the laws and how to use your best judgment could save your life or someone else’s in the future.
New Jersey Motorcycle Laws State That To Ride In the State of New Jersey:
All motorcycles must maintain the New Jersey safety standards, outlined by NHTSA and the EPA. They must also be registered and titled. To register or title your motorcycle, you will need to visit an MVC location, with your proof of insurance, registration, title and enough money to cover your fee. You must also choose from one of the following and bring it as well:
- Either out-of-state title or NJ title
- MCO or MSO – manufacturer Certificate of Origin
- A notarized bill of sale from any previous owner
- Registration
- A sale price (only for motorcycles from a non-titled state)
If you do not have one, you can apply here (PDF of application).
To Legally Operate A Motorcycle In New Jersey, You Must:
- Maintain a valid motorcycle driver’s license (must first obtain a regular license)
- Have approved goggles (or face shield) if cycle does not have approved wind-screen
- Have an approved helmet (non-reflective), with at least 4-inches of reflective-tape on each side
- Have approved helmets for each passenger
As of August 2010, you are no longer required to submit an inspection in the state of New Jersey. Regulation-decals are also no longer being issued. You may remove any old decals from your motorcycle.
New Jersey Licensed Motorcyclist Laws and Information
- Each motorcyclist must have the following in accordance to New Jersey State Laws:
I – Must Have A Helmet – Each individual who is either driving or riding on a motorcycle in the state of New Jersey is required by law to use protective helmets which fit securely and of proper size for the person wearing it. The helmet must have a chin or neck strap, and have reflectors on either side.
II – Height Limits on Handle Bars – In order to legally travel New Jersey’s roads, each motorcyclist must make sure the handle bars are not above their own height when seated. If the grips are higher, you may be cited.
III – NHTSA Certification & Conformance to Fed Standards – No operator is legally able to drive a motorcycle on a [public] road or highway unless the cycle is in complete compliance with the FMSS, which were in effect at the time of manufacture. The motorcycle will have a certification label, which is in the format of the NHTSA. This attests to the compliance which is permanently affixed [by original manufacturer].
IV – Required Equipment / Seating Arrangement of Riders – You can only ride on the regular seat and no where else on the bike. You may not allow anyone else to sit anywhere but a seat, either. You may only carry a passenger if the motorcycle is designed for more than one person at a time. If this rule is violated the motorcyclist may be subject to a fine no more than $100.00
V – Face Shield / Goggle Specifications – In the state of New Jersey, no motorcycle operator is to ride without a proper face shield or goggles. These goggles must first be approved by the director. The director may change the rules or regulations on the specifications at any time, therefore it is important to establish and maintain an up-to-date list of protective gear which complies with the specifications. Under this rule, three-wheel motor vehicles are not included so long as they are a single-cab unit which encloses its occupant, and has seats similar to a 4 wheeled vehicle.
VI – Specifications For Wind-Screens – This is a provision to the face shield and goggle law, which states that operators of motorcycles which equip a wind-screen that meets, established specifications.
VII – Required Protective Equipment – In the state of New Jersey, it is illegal to sell, offer for sale, or have for sale any type of unapproved equipment or similar device which is not yet approved by the commissioner. Any individual who violates this rule will face charges.
No person may offer, sell, or have for sale or use of any accessory or part intended to alter the design of such protective gear which is not already approved.
No person may offer for sale, have for sale, or sell any accessory or device which does not meet approval standards unless the trademark is approved, and is visibly installed.
It is a fact that over 90% of motorcyclists who are involved in crashes have not had any proper training. The MSF (Motorcycle Safety Foundation) has programs designed to train and help new or experienced motorcycle riders to suffer less injury, or avoid the crash completely. Other benefits include insurance discounts, point deductions on your license, and road-test waivers. If you are interested in checking out the entire list of certified MSF training locations, you can head over to NJRIDESAFE.ORG .
