If you are applying for your drivers license in New Jersey, you may be wondering about the state’s license requirements. The exact requirements slightly depend on your age and whether or not you already have a license from another state. But all applicants must be a legal resident of New Jersey, and must show proper documentation to prove residency status and identity.
Licensing Authority
Drivers licenses in the state of New Jersey are issued by the New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission (NJMVC). All drivers license requirements, vehicle registration, commercial drivers licenses, and other motor vehicle-related regulations are established and enforced by the NJMVC.
Graduated Licensing
New Jersey is one of many states using a Graduated Drivers License (GDL) Program. These programs are designed to help young and new drivers gain the experience and skills they need to drive safely.
If you are under age 21, NJMVC requires you to complete the GDL program before you apply for a regular drivers license. You must first complete six hours of supervised driving in a dual-controlled vehicle with a certified driving teacher at a driving school. You can then apply for a probationary license and must practice driving in a regular passenger car with supervision for six to twelve months, depending on your age. You can then take the road skills test and apply for a full license, as long as you are at least 17 years old.
Basic Requirements
To apply for a regular passenger car drivers license in New Jersey, you must:
Be at least 17 years old
Hold a probationary license for at least six months, or a license from another state
Provide residency and identity documentation
Fill out a drivers license application and take required written and road skills tests
Pay required fees
People between 16 and 18 who are currently enrolled in an approved driving school can apply for a student learner’s driving permit.
ID Requirements
New Jersey uses the “Six Point ID” system, in which each form of identification is awarded a certain number of points. For example, a valid US passport or birth certificate is worth four points, a current school photo ID with transcripts is worth three points, and a debit or credit card with pre-printed name is worth one point. Applicants must provide sufficient identification documentation totaling at least six points to get their license.
Transferring a Drivers License from Another State
If you already hold a valid license to drive in another state, take it along with your ID to any NJMVC office and fill out an application to transfer your license to New Jersey. There is a fee of $10. You will not have to retake the written or road skills tests, but you will be required to pass a vision examination and provide a fingerprint.
