Share This Page
Share Pin It Email Print

Motorcycle Insurance Minimum Requirements in New Jersey

To legally operate a motorcycle in New Jersey you must provide proof of financial responsibility. Compliance for most riders comes in the form of motorcycle insurance.

Read more to learn about New Jersey's motorcycle insurance requirements.

NOTE: New Jersey has some of the most unique car insurance laws in the country. With this in mind, it is important to understand that while most states' car and motorcycle insurance requirements mirror each other, New Jersey's motorcycle insurance requirements do not compare to its car insurance requirements.

Two-Wheeled Vehicles Defined

If you're unsure whether you must register your bike (which would mandate insurance coverage), call the Motor Vehicle Commission (MVC) at (888) 486-3339.

    • Motorcycle―The term includes motorcycles, motor bikes, bicycles with a motor attached and all motor-operated vehicles of the bicycle or tricycle type; and having a saddle or seat with driver sitting astride or upon it or a platform on which the driver stands. Please visit Other Types of Motorcycles section for more details about these vehicles.

New Jersey Motorcycle Insurance Requirements

In order to register your motorcycle in New Jersey, you must have valid liability insurance to help cover costs related to property damage or bodily injury suffered by others in an accident you cause.

Your motorcycle insurance policy must include at least the following minimum coverage limits per accident:

  • $15,000 for bodily injury per person.
  • $30,000 for total bodily injury if multiple people are hurt in the accident.
  • $5,000 for property damage.

It is important to note that these are only the minimum requirements. If you feel that these limits do not provide you with adequate financial protection you should ask your motorcycle insurance agent about higher limits.

Optional Coverages

As you are shopping and comparing motorcycle insurance quotes, you may notice that by just meeting the state's requirements, you are only covered for others' property damage or injuries. Your bike's damages and any injuries you suffer are not covered by liability insurance. However, optional types of coverage may be available to help with these types of costs.

When you are deciding on your motorcycle insurance, ask your agent about these common optional coverages:

  • Collision - This will help with repairs to your motorcycle after an accident.
  • Comprehensive - This covers repairs for damages due to most types of non-accident related damages.
  • Medical payments - If you are hurt in an accident, this coverage can help with medical costs.
  • Towing and labor - This coverage can help provide and pay for emergency roadside assistance and towing if your motorycle breaks down.

How Coverage Affects Helmet Requirements

No insurance discounts are offered for donning a helmet while riding. As is, every rider, regardless of age, is required to wear a helmet.

Penalties for Failure to Maintain Financial Responsibility

Not having motorcycle insurance can lead to the following penalties:

Also keep in mind that insurance violations typically result in an increase in premium rates. Your insurance history may be factored into your motorcycle insurance rates.

Additionally, you may find it more difficult to find an motorcycle insurance company willing to provide you coverage, as insurance companies do have the right to deny coverage to anybody they consider high-risk riders.

DMV.ORG BBB Business Review