The following are the basic traffic rules you need to know before you can drive in New Jersey. For more information, read our Driver Manual or use the new Online driver manual
Speed Limits
- 65 mph on certain highways and turnpikes
- 55 mph on certain state highways and all interstates
- 25 mph on all business or residential districts (school zones have posted regulatory signs)
- 35 mph on suburban business and residential areas
Seat Belts
- All front-seat occupants of passenger vehicles are required to wear a seat belt
- The child restraint law requires every passenger between the ages of eight and 18 to use a seat belt–regardless of where they are seated in the vehicle
- Children eight years and younger who weigh less than 80 pounds must be buckled into an approved car or booster seat
- This is permitted after you have come to a complete stop unless prohibited by a sign
- High Occupancy Vehicle Lanes (HOV), for passenger vehicles with two or more occupants, are available to improve the traffic flow in high commuter areas
- These lanes are indicated with white diamonds
- Accompanying HOV signs indicate hours these lanes are in operation
- A motorcycle license or endorsement is required to operate any motorcycle in New Jersey
- Riders must wear helmets and eye protection
- Motorcyclists are not permitted to ride more than two across in any single traffic lane
- Passing regulations are the same as those for motor vehicles
- All vehicles must stop for school buses at least 25 feet away on any public or private road or parking lot when a bus uses its flashing red lights or when it has stopped
- New Jersey law requires motorists to yield to pedestrians
- Look for signs that mark special hazard areas such as school zones, bus stops, playgrounds, etc
