New Jersey Motorcycle Manual Online 2025
Freedom, leisure, economical operating costs and convenience are just some of the advantages that motorcyclists enjoy over drivers of four-wheeled vehicles.
In the state of New Jersey, there are a number of requirements that prospective motorcyclists must meet before heading out on the road. These are introduced briefly in this article.
New Jersey Motorcycle License
The state considers a motorcycle to be a motor bike, a bicycle with an attached motor or any type of motor-operated bicycle or tricycle. However, a motorized bicycle is not considered a motorcycle. Any resident of New Jersey wishing to operate a motorcycle needs to have a specific NJ motorcycle driver license or a motorcycle endorsement on their existing basic/commercial license.
New Jersey Driver Manual
The state Motor Vehicle Commission puts out a driver manual that includes a chapter entirely devoted to motorcycle-related safety information and operating rules (available separately below). Some important concepts contained in this chapter include:
- Controlling the Vehicle
- See, Be Seen and Be Heard
- The SIPDE System
- Blind Spots
- Keeping your Distance
- Dangerous Surfaces
- Cautious Night Riding
- Carrying Passengers and Cargo
- Riding with a Group
- Familiarity with the Motorcycle
Test Your Knowledge!
Once you feel confident that you’ve prepared enough, the state Motor Vehicle Commission offers a sample knowledge test for you to assess your knowledge. Some questions that you’ll be expected to know include:
- What is the BAC limit before riders are considered “under the influence?”
- When must you turn your headlights on?
- What must you do when driving in bad weather?
- What should you do when you are driving behind a school bus showing a flashing red light signalling a stop?
If you’re ready, you can take the written knowledge test and vision test. Once you’ve passed these tests, you can get a permit for practice riding on NJ roads.
The Road Test
The road test ensures that applicants have the practical skills to ensure safe, responsible motorcycle operation in real-life conditions. The road test places emphasis on the following motorcycle skills:
- Turning and stopping – Can you control your bike while turning and stopping? You’ll be asked to stay within the path of the turn without putting a foot down or skidding your bike.
- Cone weave (U-turn) – Can you control your bike at a low speed, while weaving through cones and making a U-turn where indicated?
- Braking – Can you safely brake quickly? This will test your stopping distance in relation to the speed of travel.
- Obstacle swerve – Can you swerve the motorcycle quickly, in order to avoid an obstacle in the road?