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The early bird road

Updated May 1, 2010- new GDL requirements

For drivers ages 16 and up, MVC offers a three-phase process:
Get a student learner's permit
  • Visit an MVC Agency that offers Driver Testing Services with a licensed driving instructor
  • Pass the knowledge test. You can study by reading MVC's Driver Manual
  • Pass the vision test
  • Bring a primary 4-point ID (civil birth certificate, US Passport, US Department of State birth certificate, US adoption papers, certificate of naturalization or certificate of citizenship)
  • Show proof of enrollment in a driver training course
  • Present a signed letter with parental or guardian consent
  • Pay fee
  • Permits are valid for two years and must be carried when operating a vehicle
  • If your permit is lost or stolen, you must request a duplicate. Duplicates must be obtained by the driving school

Practice supervised driving for at least six months
You must observe the following restrictions during the supervised driving period:
  • Display a reflectorized decal on each license plate (front/back); decals available at motor vehicle agencies, $4 per pair
  • No driving after 11:01 p.m. and before 5:00 a.m.
  • You must be accompanied in the front seat by an adult supervising driver who is at least 21 years of age and who possesses a valid New Jersey driver license and has a minimum of three years driving experience
  • Parent(s), guardian(s) or dependant(s) are allowed as passengers. A dependant is a permit or probationary driver's child, not siblings
  • Only one additional passenger is allowed unless accompanied by a parent or guardian
  • You can't use cell phones, hand held video games or any other hands-free interactive, wireless communication device
  • Seat belts must be worn at all times
  • See GDL Exemptions for hours-related exemptions for employment or religious reasons

Get a probationary license
  • You must be at least 17 years of age
  • Complete the supervised driving period
  • Pass the 6 Point ID Verification
  • Pass MVC's road test
  • You must return after one year from date of issue to get a basic driver license

Practice unsupervised driving for at least one year
You must observe the following requirements and restrictions while driving with a probationary (formerly provisional) license:
  • Display a reflectorized decal on each license plate (front/back); decals available at motor vehicle agencies, $4 per pair
  • No driving after 11:01 p.m. and before 5:00 a.m.
  • Parent(s), guardian(s) or dependant(s) are allowed as passengers. A dependant is a permit or probationary driver's child, not siblings
  • Only one additional passenger is allowed unless accompanied by a parent or guardian
  • You can't use cell phones, hand held video games or any other hands-free interactive, wireless communication device
  • Seat belts must be worn at all times
  • See GDL Exemptions for hours-related exemptions for employment or religious reasons

Get a basic driver license
  • You must be at least 18 years old
  • Complete the unsupervised driving period
  • Go to any MVC Agency with your provisional license and other documents to pass the 6 Point ID Verification
  • Pay $24 license fee
For your convenience, MVC accepts American Express® card, MasterCard® card, Visa® card, checks, money orders and cash.