How to get a New Jersey Driver's License
Find out how to get a new NJ driver's license, replace your out-of-state license and requirements for international drivers with this New Jersey DMV guide.
The Rules
Under NJ DMV guidelines, you must be 18 years old to obtain a New Jersey driver's license. A provisional license is issued at 17.
All applicants need to be familiar with the New Jersey Driver's Manual. Think you know the material? Take our DMV practice test now and test your driving knowledge.
First Time Drivers
If this is your first driver's license, you will need to apply for a New Jersey learners permit which is part of the graduated licensing program and requires a written exam on traffic signs, motor vehicle laws and safe driving techniques.
Once you receive a valid learners permit, you will then need to pass a road skills test in addition to vision and hearing tests to receive an NJ drivers license.
Applicants under 21 must have held a learners permit for 6 months before taking the road skills test.
New NJ Residents
If you have recently moved to New Jersey, you are required to transfer your out-of-state license within 60 days of permanent New Jersey residency or before your current license expires. Your license cannot be transferred to a New Jersey license if you are under 18 years old. Instead, you must complete the Graduated Driver License (GDL) program requirements.
When heading to the DMV, be sure to bring the license from your former state as you will be required to surrender it in order to obtain the new license.
There is no written exam or road skills testing required to change a valid out-of-state license to an NV driver's license, however you will need to pass the vision test.
If your out-of-state license is expired, you will have to take a written test and possibly a skills test.
International Drivers
If you are not a U.S. citizen and have recently moved to New Jersey, you must have temporary visa status and fit into one of the categories listed here to apply for a New Jersey driver license. You will be required to take a vision test, knowledge test and possibly a road test if required.
Paperwork
Before you head to the New Jersey DMV Office, make sure you have all of the following required documents to get your driver's license:
On the Road
Once your licensing requirements have been met, your Class D Driver's License will be valid for four (4) years and will expire on your birthday. Remember... the safe operation of a vehicle requires practiced skill, knowledge, and a respectful understanding of the limitations imposed by the other drivers and the environment.
Driver's License Resources
New Jersey Driver's Manual |
