First Driver License/ID

AGE 16

Driver education classes in New Jersey are offered in many high schools (check with your school district). There are also many licensed driving schools throughout the state. See a list of licensed driving schools. If you are enrolled in a behind the wheel driver training course at either of the above you can obtain a special learner’s permit at age 16. 

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Get Your Special Learner’s Permit

Offered in many high schools (check with your school district); or

Enroll with a licensed driving school.

You should be able to complete form BA-412D and present your documents at the driving school. When you are ready, you will be able to schedule your knowledge test.
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Take Your Knowledge Test

You will take your knowledge test at the school.
You will also be required to take a vision test.

IF YOU FAIL, you can re-test in 7 days.
IF YOU PASS, your permit will be validated, and you can go to the next step.

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Behind-the-Wheel Instruction

Complete 6 hours of behind-the-wheel instruction in a dual-controlled vehicle with a licensed driving instructor.

The driving school, student, or parent/guardian must complete the student permit at a motor vehicle agency that offers driver testing. Once completed, the MVC agency will validate for practice driving.

 
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Practice driving.

Make an appointment for your road test for 6 months after you pass your knowledge test.
Practice supervised driving for 6 months

NOTE: You cannot get your license until you are 17 years of age.

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Take Your Road Test.

IF YOU FAIL, you can re-test in 14 days.
IF YOU PASS, your permit will be stamped, and you can go to the next step.

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Get your Probationary Driver’s License.

You can either get your Probationary Driver’s License at the location of your road test (if available), or at any Licensing Center with your stamped permit and your documents – no appointment necessary.

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Practice driving on your own.

Practice unsupervised driving for 1 year; when you have 1 year of practice driving, and when you turn 18 years old, you should upgrade your probationary license to a basic license online.

If you don’t upgrade within 3.5 years, you must make an appointment at a Licensing Center to renew your probationary license.

Supervised driving:
  • 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’s license, and has a minimum of three years driving experience.
  • Parent(s), guardian(s) or dependent(s) are allowed as passengers. A dependent can be the driver's child, not brother or sister.
  • Only one additional passenger is allowed unless accompanied by a parent or guardian.
  • You cannot use cell phones, handheld video games or any other interactive, wireless device, whether it is “hands-free” or not.
  • Seat belts must be worn at all times.
Unsupervised driving:
  • You cannot use cell phones, handheld video games or any other interactive, wireless device, whether it is “hands-free” or not.
  • Seat belts must be worn at all times.
  • Prohibited from driving between 11:01pm – 5:00am. (claiming employment/religious exemptions with proof) For exemption, motorist must carry a legible certification to indicate this need from his/her employer or religious official on official letterhead of the business organization, or religious institution with the signature of the certifying official and his/her name, title, address and phone number (N.J.A.C. 13:21-8.18)
  • Must display decals on license plates.
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