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  • 16 / 17Special learner permit / examination permitp. 15–16
  • 50 hoursSupervised practice, 10 in darknessp. 15
  • 6 monthsSupervised practice before the road testp. 34
  • 40 of 50Correct answers to pass the knowledge testp. 31

Step by step

  1. Choose your path

    At 16, enroll in an approved behind-the-wheel course; the instructor buys a special learner permit. At 17, apply for an examination permit yourself. (New Jersey Driver Manual, p. 15–16, 19–20)

  2. Gather your documents

    Bring 6 points of ID and the other proofs; applicants under 18 also need a parent or guardian's signed consent.

    • 6 points of ID, including a primary and a secondary document
    • Proof of your New Jersey address
    • Your Social Security number or ITIN (or the affidavit)
    • Parent or guardian consent if you're under 18

    (New Jersey Driver Manual, p. 5, 9)

  3. Pass the knowledge test and vision screening

    Answer at least 40 of 50 questions correctly and meet the 20/50 vision standard. Results are valid for two years. (New Jersey Driver Manual, p. 20, 30–31)

  4. Get the permit validated

    The MVC validates your permit for practice driving; a special learner permit is validated only after the driving course. (New Jersey Driver Manual, p. 15, 20)

  5. Practice and take the road test

    Practice with an adult supervising driver, then bring your documents, validated permit and a suitable car to the road test. (New Jersey Driver Manual, p. 34–36)

Fees and the full list of accepted documents change from time to time, so check them on the New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission (MVC) website before you go.

Rules while you have a New Jersey driving permit

  • Drive only with an adult supervising driver in the front seat: 21 or older, NJ licensed, with at least three years' experience. (New Jersey Driver Manual, p. 18)
  • Under 21: no driving from 11:01 p.m. to 5:00 a.m., and no hand-held or hands-free phone use. (New Jersey Driver Manual, p. 18)
  • Under 21: display red GDL decals on both license plates, and everyone in the car must wear a seat belt. (New Jersey Driver Manual, p. 18–19)

What comes next

After six months of supervised driving with no suspensions, pass the road test (at 17 or older) for a probationary license, drive a year under its restrictions, then upgrade to a basic license at 18 or older. (New Jersey Driver Manual, p. 15–17)

Ready for the knowledge test?Free New Jersey practice exam: 50 questions, 40 to pass.

This guide is a free learning aid based on the New Jersey Driver Manual (2026 (R0726)), not official advice. Rules, documents and fees can change: always confirm with the New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission (MVC) before you go. Page numbers are the ones printed on the handbook pages; tap one to open the official PDF at that page. A PDF viewer counts the cover too, so its page numbers run 2 higher.