A Complete Guide to New Jersey Driver's License Process 2024
- How to Get Your License in New Jersey
- Types of NJ Driver’s Licenses
- How to Apply for a Class D License in New Jersey
- How to Apply for Your NJ Special Learner’s Permit
- Enroll in a Driving School that’s Licensed
- Gather the Required Documentation
- Come with Your Guardian or Parent
- Visit an MVC
- Obtain the Permit
- Take an Eye Exam
- Pass the Knowledge Test
- Complete Your Behind-the-Wheel Training
- Have Your Permit Validated
- Schedule Your Driving Test
- Practice Driving While Supervised
- How to Apply for Your NJ Examination Permit
- How to Apply for Your NJ Probationary Driver License
- Driver’s License Renewal Process in New Jersey
- How Can New Residents Get their NJ Driver’s License
Discover how to obtain your New Jersey learner permit or driver's license. Renew your license, get a replacement, and clear your driving test with ease. This guide provides step-by-step instructions, essential requirements, and valuable tips to expedite your driving journey.
How to Get Your License in New Jersey
If you live in New Jersey and plan to drive there, you'll need an NJ driver's license. Getting your license here is pretty straightforward. Just give the right documents to the MVC, learn the material, and show you can drive safely.
Here's a simple guide to getting your driver’s license in New Jersey.
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Apply for an Instruction Permit
During this stage, you can practice driving under supervision.
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Get a Probationary License
This license lets you drive unsupervised but with certain restrictions.
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Get a Full/Adult License
Drive freely without any restrictions.
Types of NJ Driver’s Licenses
New Jersey offers various driver's licenses. You can apply for them depending on your age and other factors.
Class D Driver’s License
The Class D license is the standard one for driving regular vehicles in New Jersey. To prepare, consult the NJ Driver Manual or take a complimentary New Jersey MVC practice test.
Class A
This license allows you to operate trucks or trailers with a GCWR of 26,001 lbs or more where the towed vehicle is over 10,000 lbs.
Class B
This license is meant for vehicles with a GCWR of 26,001 lbs or more. It allows for towed vehicles to be less than 10,000 lbs. Moreover, with this license, you can drive transport for 16 or more passengers.
Class C (Commercial)
This license allows you to drive vehicles with a GCWR of less than 26,001 lbs, designed to carry 16 or more passengers. This includes school vehicles for 15 or fewer passengers and vehicles for hire carrying 8-15 passengers.
Class E
This license allows you to operate vehicles with less than 4 wheels, like scooters or motorbikes. You can add an Endorsement M to a Class D license to cover motorcycles.
How to Apply for a Class D License in New Jersey
You must first obtain a learner’s permit for a Class D driver's license. This confirms that you’ve successfully passed your vision and knowledge exam. You can take the driving test once you’ve gotten your special learner’s permit.
Here’s a breakdown of the steps based on age:
- If you’re a first-timer between 16 and 17, apply for a Special Learner’s Permit.
- If you’re a first-timer above 17, apply for an Examination Permit.
- If you’re a Special Learner or Examination Permit above 17, apply for a Probationary License.
- If you’re a Probationary License Holder 18+, apply for a Basic Driver License.
Get Ready for Your New Jersey Learner’s Permit Test
Practice our real-like questions to pass on your first try
How to Apply for Your NJ Special Learner’s Permit
Upon reaching 16, you become eligible to initiate the Graduated Driver License (GDL) process. With a special learner's permit:
- You can drive while supervised by an adult aged 21 or older. They must have a valid NJ driver's license and at least three years of driving experience.
- You can seat up to two additional passengers, including a parent, guardian, or dependent.
- You are prohibited from driving from 11:01 p.m. to 5:00 a.m.
Here are the steps to follow to get a Special Learner’s Permit:
Enroll in a Driving School that’s Licensed
Select a school officially recognized by the Motor Vehicle Commission (MVC). You can find a directory of these schools on the MVC's official website.
Gather the Required Documentation
You need to present:
- Two types of ID
- Verification of your Social Security Number
- Confirmation of your residential address.
Make sure to select the appropriate documents using the MVC Online Tool.
Come with Your Guardian or Parent
Your parent or guardian must accompany you to the MVC. They’ll have to sign a document allowing you to obtain your permit in front of an employee.
Visit an MVC
Proceed to a motor vehicle department with the paperwork you collected in the second step, and ensure you are joined by a certified driving teacher. Choose a department that includes a facility for driver examinations.
Obtain the Permit
Your driving instructor will handle the purchase on your behalf. The cost is $10, and payment options include credit cards (Mastercard, American Express, or Visa), checks, money orders, or cash.
Take an Eye Exam
To complete the vision test, you must pass the required vision screening. The minimum vision requirement is 20/50, with or without the use of glasses or corrective lenses.
Pass the Knowledge Test
The NJ written test is meant to test your knowledge about driving rules. You must answer 40 out of the 50 questions correctly to pass this test. Reviewing the NJ Driver Manual and utilizing the free New Jersey MVC Practice Tests for preparation is advisable. If you have previously passed the exam at your high school, you can present a blue test waiver card instead.
Complete Your Behind-the-Wheel Training
You must undergo six hours of hands-on driving instruction in a dual-control vehicle, overseen at all times by your accredited driving instructor.
Have Your Permit Validated
Return to the motor vehicle agency accompanied by your certified driving instructor to have your permit validated. Once approved, you can schedule your road test appointment there or, alternatively, book it online. Keep in mind that the road test date should be at least six months after your permit has been validated.
Schedule Your Driving Test
You can book your road test appointment either in person or online at this moment. Please be aware that the appointment date should be set no less than six months from the date your permit was validated if you're under 21 or at least three months after for those 21 and older.
Practice Driving While Supervised
Your learner's permit will remain valid for two years. After you complete your driving practice, you'll be eligible to apply for a probationary license. This license will grant you the independence to drive solo.
How to Apply for Your NJ Examination Permit
If you're unlicensed and lack a student learner's permit, obtaining an examination permit is essential before you can qualify for a license. This permit enables you to practice for the road test under the constant supervision of a driver who is at least 21 years old, holds a valid New Jersey driver's license, and has a minimum of three years' driving experience.
With a special learner's permit:
For individuals under 21, during the initial six months, there are extra limitations in place:
- You must adhere to a curfew, not driving between 11:01 PM and 5:00 AM.
- You cannot have more than one passenger unless accompanied by a parent or guardian.
- Everyone in the vehicle must wear seat belts.
- No use of cell phones, handheld video games, or any other hands-free interactive, wireless communication device.
- You must add decals to your vehicle, specifically on the upper left corner of both the front and rear license plates. These decals can be obtained from the MVC for $4.
These restrictions help new drivers gain experience under less risky conditions.
Here are the steps to follow to get an Examination Permit:
Gather the Required Documentation
You need to present:
- Two types of ID
- Verification of your Social Security Number
- Confirmation of your residential address.
Make sure to select the appropriate documents using the MVC Online Tool.
Come with Your Guardian or Parent
If you’re under 18, your parent or guardian must accompany you to the MVC. They’ll have to sign a document allowing you to obtain your permit in front of an employee.
Visit an MVC
Proceed to the motor vehicle department with your documents. Choose a department that includes a facility for driver examinations.
Fill and Submit an Application Form
You must fill out an application form, which you’ll find at the license office.
Pay the Fee
The probationary license fee is $10. Accepted payment methods include credit cards (Mastercard, American Express, or Visa), checks, money orders, or cash.
Take an Eye Exam
To complete the vision test, you must pass the required vision screening. The minimum vision requirement is 20/50, with or without using glasses or corrective lenses.
Pass the Knowledge Test
The NJ written test is meant to test your knowledge about driving rules. You must answer 40 out of the 50 questions to pass this test. Reviewing the NJ Driver Manual and utilizing the free New Jersey MVC Practice Tests for preparation is advisable. If you have previously passed the exam at your high school, you can present a blue test waiver card instead.
Have Your Permit Validated
Return to the motor vehicle agency accompanied by your certified driving instructor to have your permit validated. Once approved, you can schedule your road test appointment there or, alternatively, book it online. Keep in mind that the road test date should be at least six months after your permit has been validated.
Schedule Your Driving Test
You can book your road test appointment either in person or online at this moment. Please be aware that the appointment date should be set no less than six months from the date your permit was validated if you're under 21 or at least three months after for those 21 and older.
Practice Driving While Supervised
Your permit will remain valid for two years. Once you've finished your driving practice, you can apply for a probationary license, allowing you to drive independently.
How to Apply for Your NJ Probationary Driver License
With a Probationary Driver's License, you're permitted to drive independently. However, the use of both hands-free and hand-held electronic devices while driving is prohibited, and all passengers in the vehicle are required to wear seat belts. Additional limitations apply if you're under 21 years old:
- Driving Time Restrictions: No driving between 11:01 p.m. and 5:00 a.m.
- Passenger Limitations: Only dependents and one additional person are allowed to carry unless a parent/guardian is present.
- Decal Requirement: Place decals on the top left corner of both the front and rear license plates. Decals can be obtained from the MVC for $4.
Here’s the step-by-step process for applying for your probationary driver’s license in New Jersey:
Practice Supervised Driving
Your learner's permit will remain valid for two years. During this time, you must practice supervised driving to be eligible to apply for your probationary license. You must complete a minimum practice period of six months if you're under 21 or three months if you're 21 or older without any interruptions or delays in your permit's validity.
Schedule Your Driving Test
You can book your road test appointment either in person or online. However, it’s preferable to book online beforehand since it can get quite busy.
Bring the Required Documentation
You need to present:
- Valid exam or student learner’s permit
- Two types of ID
- Verification of your Social Security Number
- Confirmation of your residential address
When you go for your road test, make sure to bring a vehicle that has a valid inspection sticker and insurance card. Additionally, you need to be accompanied by a licensed driver who is at least 21 years old.
Pass the Road Test
The road test evaluates your safe driving skills and compliance with traffic regulations. Successful candidates will be issued an authorization slip to present at the MVC. Should you not pass, a waiting period of at least two weeks is required before retesting. For comprehensive information on road test protocols, please refer to the official guidelines.
Fill and Submit an Application Form
You must fill out an application form, which you’ll find at the license office.
Pay the Fee
The probationary license fee is $6. Accepted payment methods include credit cards (Mastercard, American Express, or Visa), checks, money orders, or cash.
Have Your Picture Taken
When taking your photo at the MVC, your entire face must be visible, from the top of your forehead to the bottom of your chin. If you need to wear a head covering for medical or religious reasons, discuss this with the MVC staff at the camera station. They will make the appropriate accommodations.
Receive Your Probationary Driver’s License
You need to drive on your own for a minimum of one year before you can upgrade your probationary license to a full standard driver's license.
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Driver’s License Renewal Process in New Jersey
There are three ways to renew your driver’s license in New Jersey:
- In-person
- By mail
- Online
Driving with an expired license in New Jersey is against the law. You have the option to renew your license as early as six months before its expiry date. Although the MVC will mail you a renewal notice, it's your responsibility to ensure timely renewal.
While in-person renewal is always available, you may want to see if you qualify for mail-in renewal to avoid visiting the MVC office.
In-Person Renewal
Here’s how you can renew your NJ license in person.
Visit an MVC
Proceed to a motor vehicle department to get started on your license renewal. It’s best to visit the MVC in the middle of the day at the beginning or end of the month. Avoid visiting at the end of the week or month
Gather the Required Documentation
Present the following documents at the MVC:
- Your 6-Point ID
- Your out-of-state license
- Proof of residential address.
Fill and Submit an Application Form
You must fill out an application form, which you’ll find at the license office. You may also bring the completed renewal form received by mail.
Pay the Renewal Fee
The probationary license fee is $24. Accepted payment methods include credit cards (Mastercard, American Express, or Visa), checks, money orders, or cash.
Have Your Picture Taken
When taking your photo at the MVC, your entire face must be visible, from the top of your forehead to the bottom of your chin. If you need to wear a head covering for medical or religious reasons, discuss this with the MVC staff at the camera station. They will make the appropriate accommodations.
Receive Your License
Once renewed, your New Jersey basic driver's license will be good for an additional four years. This license is digitally enhanced for security and includes cutting-edge facial recognition features.
Renewal by Mail
If you qualify, you can renew by mail—just refer to the renewal notice you received. Eligible individuals will receive materials and instructions for renewal by mail.
However, you might need to visit in person if:
- You possess a Graduated Driver License (GDL).
- Your license is currently suspended.
- You're subject to a Temporary Visa Restriction (TVR).
- Your vehicle must be equipped with an ignition interlock device.
- The MVC requires an updated photo that must be captured at their office.
Here’s the process for renewing your license by mail:
- Fill out the renewal application using either blue or black ink.
- Include a check or money order covering the $24.00 fee.
- Mail the completed form.
Expect to receive your new license by mail within 10 business days. If it hasn't arrived within 20 days of mailing, you should contact the MVC for assistance.
You're eligible to renew your license by mail while out-of-state if:
- Your present license is a New Jersey digital driver's license nearing expiration or expired under three years ago.
- You hold U.S. citizenship.
Process for Renewing Your License If You’re Out of NJ
- Draft a letter detailing your inability to visit the MVC and your expected return date to New Jersey.
- Your license is currently suspended.
- Fill out the BA208 application, obtainable through MVC contact.
- Include a $24.00 check or money order for the fee.
- Attach photocopies of identification totaling 6 points.
- Provide evidence of a permanent New Jersey address.
- Include your address outside of New Jersey.
- Supply a prepaid envelope for quicker license delivery.
- Mail the complete set to the NJ Motor Vehicle Commission at the specified Trenton address.
- Expect your new license at the non-New Jersey address you've provided.
Online Renewal
The New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission (MVC) does not offer the option to renew licenses online. All renewals must be processed through mail or in person. If this policy changes, they would typically be updated on the official MVC website or through their customer service channels.
How Can New Residents Get their NJ Driver’s License
For new residents, obtaining a New Jersey Driver's License involves transferring your driver's license from another state to New Jersey within 60 days of establishing residency. However, how do you know if you’re a permanent resident? Well, you're deemed a resident for the purpose of driver licensing if you've taken up permanent residence in the state.
What If I Have an Out-of-State Driver’s License?
To convert your driver's license from another state to a New Jersey one, you must gather the necessary documents and complete a vision examination. The knowledge and road tests are not required for those who already hold a license from any of the 50 states, the District of Columbia, or the U.S. Territories of American Samoa and Guam, as well as Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands.
Here’s the process you’ll need to follow to exchange your out-of-state license for an NJ one:
Visit an MVC
Proceed to a motor vehicle department to get started on your license transfer. It’s best to visit the MVC in the middle of the day at the beginning or end of the month. Avoid visiting at the end of the week or month
Gather the Required Documentation
You must present documentation from the U.S. Immigration and Naturalization Service. This must verify your authorized stay in the country and validate your overseas driver's license.
Additionally, you need to present:
- Your 6-Point ID
- Your out-of-state license
- Proof of residential address.
Obtain a Transfer Permit
Purchase a transfer permit for $10. Payment options include credit cards (Mastercard, American Express, or Visa), checks, money orders, or cash.
Take an Eye Exam
To complete the vision test, you must pass the required vision screening. The minimum vision requirement is 20/50, with or without using glasses or corrective lenses.
Pass the Knowledge Test
The NJ written test is meant to test your knowledge about driving rules. You must answer 40 out of the 50 questions to pass this test. Reviewing the NJ Driver Manual and utilizing the free New Jersey MVC Practice Tests for preparation is advisable. If you have previously passed the exam at your high school, you can present a blue test waiver card instead.
Have Your Picture Taken
When taking your photo at the MVC, your entire face must be visible, from the top of your forehead to the bottom of your chin. If you need to wear a head covering for medical or religious reasons, discuss this with the MVC staff at the camera station. They will make the appropriate accommodations.
Fulfill GDL Requirements (Circumstantial)
If you're younger than 21, you’ll need to follow certain steps. If you've already passed the knowledge and road tests in another state, you won't have to take them again.
Pay the License Fee
The license fee payment of $24 can be made using a card (Mastercard, American Express, or Visa), check, money order, or cash.
Surrender Your License
Hand over your other license to get an NJ license.
Note: Your basic New Jersey driver's license will remain valid for a period of four years. It features enhanced security measures, including sophisticated facial recognition technology.
What If I Have a Foreign Driver’s License?
If you relocate to NJ from a different country, you can use your valid foreign driving license for up to one year. You must meet the criteria listed here to obtain a New Jersey driving license. Additionally, you don't need to give up your international license when you receive your New Jersey driving license from the MVC.
Here’s the process for applying for an NJ license if you possess a foreign driver’s license:
Visit an MVC
Proceed to a motor vehicle department to get started on your license transfer. It’s best to visit the MVC in the middle of the day at the beginning or end of the month. Avoid visiting at the end of the week or month
Gather the Required Documentation
You need to present:
- Your 6-Point ID
- Your out-of-state license
- Proof of residential address.
Obtain a Transfer Permit
Purchase a transfer permit for $10. Payment options include credit cards (Mastercard, American Express, or Visa), checks, money orders, or cash.
Take an Eye Exam
To complete the vision test, you must pass the required vision screening. The minimum vision requirement is 20/50, with or without the use of glasses or corrective lenses.
Pass the Road Test
Depending on your specific situation, you might need to take a road test. The road test evaluates your safe driving skills and compliance with traffic regulations. If the staff at the MVC advises that a road test is needed, make sure to book an appointment for the test and review the testing guidelines.
Pay the License Fee
The license fee payment of $24 can be made using a card (Mastercard, American Express, or Visa), check, money order, or cash.
Have Your Picture Taken
When taking your photo at the MVC, your entire face must be visible, from the top of your forehead to the bottom of your chin. If you need to wear a head covering for medical or religious reasons, discuss this with the MVC staff at the camera station. They will make the appropriate accommodations.
Receive Your License
Get your basic NJ license and drive around freely.