How to Get Your Driver's License in New Jersey
Last verified: 2026-03
Here is how to get your driver's license in New Jersey. New Jersey uses a Graduated Driver Licensing (GDL) system with 3 stages. You can get a full unrestricted license at age 18.
GDL Stages in New Jersey
Learner's Permit (Examination Permit)
Requirements
- Pass written knowledge test
- Pass vision screening
- Complete 6 hours of behind-the-wheel training
- Parental consent if under 18
Restrictions
- Must be accompanied by a licensed driver age 21 or older with 3+ years experience
Probationary License
Requirements
- Hold examination permit for at least 6 months
- Complete required supervised driving hours
- Pass road skills test
Restrictions
- No driving between 11 p.m. and 5 a.m.
- No more than 1 passenger in addition to dependents
Full Unrestricted License
Requirements
- Turn 18 or hold probationary license for at least 12 months
- Some conditions extend to age 21
Restricted License Rules
- No driving between 11 p.m. and 5 a.m. unless for work, school, or an emergency.
- Only 1 additional passenger (beyond dependents of the driver) is allowed. New Jersey also requires probationary drivers to display a reflective GDL decal on the vehicle.
How restrictions lift: Restrictions lift at age 18, though the GDL decal requirement can extend until age 21.
Road Test Overview
What Is Tested
- Vehicle control
- Turning and lane changes
- Parking
- Obeying traffic signals and signs
- Speed management
- Yielding right of way
Adult Licensing Pathway
If you are 18 or older, you do not need to complete the full GDL process. New Jersey does not allow any unsupervised driving before age 17. Drivers 18 and older skip the probationary period. Some GDL decal requirements extend until age 21.
New Jersey-Specific Information
New Jersey has the highest minimum age for unsupervised driving in the country at 17. The state also requires a reflective GDL decal to be displayed on the license plate of any vehicle driven by a probationary driver, which is unique among U.S. states.
Frequently Asked Questions
You must be at least 18 years old to get an unrestricted full driver's license in New Jersey.
New Jersey uses a 3-stage Graduated Driver Licensing (GDL) system: Learner's Permit (Examination Permit), Probationary License, Full Unrestricted License.
- No driving between 11 p.m. and 5 a.m. unless for work, school, or an emergency.
- Only 1 additional passenger (beyond dependents of the driver) is allowed. New Jersey also requires probationary drivers to display a reflective GDL decal on the vehicle.
Adults age 18 and older in New Jersey can apply for a license directly without going through the GDL stages. New Jersey does not allow any unsupervised driving before age 17. Drivers 18 and older skip the probationary period. Some GDL decal requirements extend until age 21.
Need your permit first?
Start with the learner's permit before your full license.
New Jersey learner's permit guideCheck drivers ed requirements
Find out if drivers ed is required in New Jersey.
New Jersey drivers ed requirementsPrefer to learn online?
Complete a state-approved driving course from home on your own schedule. Same certifications, same insurance discounts.
View Online CoursesThis information is based on New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission (MVC) guidelines. Requirements can change. Visit the official New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission (MVC) website for the most current information.