Some Need to Know Facts about New Jersey’s Graduated Licensing System

Some Need to Know Facts about New Jersey’s Graduated Licensing System

Every new driver in New Jersey, adults under 21 years old included, must complete a multiple step Graduated Driver’s License program before receiving full road privileges. This program is designed to establish stronger skills in beginner operators before they face the roads alone.

The first step is acquiring learner’s permit at age 16, after completion of a mandatory driver education class, a vision test, and a knowledge test. With this permit, drivers may not operate the vehicle when they are not supervised by a licensed driver over 21, who has held a license for at least three years.

New operators must practice driving for at least six months and then complete the road skills test for the examination/probationary license when they turn 17 years old. Adults 21 and older are only required to hold this permit for three months.

While driving with a probationary license, two temporary reflective decals must be attached to the vehicle’s license plates for a minimum of 6 months. Probationary operators under 21 may not exceed one non-family/guardian passenger if not accompanied by a 21-year-old licensed guardian or parent.

An unrestricted license with full privileges is available at age 18 to operators who have completed the previous steps in the GDL program.

A licensed supervisor must be present between the hours of 11 p.m. and 5 a.m. for any driver under the age of 21. Wireless communication devices of all kinds are not permitted for any new operators, and all vehicle occupants must wear their seatbelts at all times.


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