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New Jersey driver's license

Get your first license in New Jersey after moving to the US.

How it goes

  1. 1
    You arriveYou have moved to New Jersey and you want to drive here.
  2. 2
    Your permitYou practice on the road with a learner permit.
  3. 3
    The written testYou take the written test.
  4. 4
    Behind the wheelYou take the drive test behind the wheel.
  5. Your licenseYou pass the tests, and the license is yours.

What it costs

A first license

$10 examination permit auto, $24 initial auto license, $4 GDL decal pair

  • $18 for the standard basic driver's license. That is the license fee only; the examination permit and testing fees are separate.

  • If the commission fixes a shorter expiry date for your license, the fee is a proportionate share of the flat $29 fee, not the full amount. The commission sets that share and publishes no table.

  • The special driver's license costs nothing beyond the ordinary driver's-license fee.

  • A driver who operates a state, county or city owned vehicle only for that government's use is licensed for that driving without charge.

You pay this when you apply.

If you just arrived in the US

Foreign documents with no expiry date

New Jersey reads whether a foreign license is current from a certificate issued by your country, not from the dates printed on the card: Taiwan applicants present a valid Verification of Certificate of Driver's License, and South Korea applicants a Certificate of Driver's License with a consular translation. If your country has no agreement with New Jersey, you take the knowledge and road tests, and the card's expiry date decides nothing.

If your license from another state has expired

If it expired less than one year ago, you can still transfer it in a single appointment with no tests. If it expired more than one year ago, you start over as a first-time driver, permit and all.

Documents you need

  • Documents that are still validPrimary and secondary identity documents cannot be expired for more than three years.

Your Social Security Number

Giving your number, and who may see it

Your number is used to administer motor vehicle, tax and child support laws, and to identify the people those laws affect.

  • The law requires you to submit either a Social Security number or an individual taxpayer identification number.

Tests you take

Eye test

Under the vision reexamination program, the division was directed to reexamine about 10% of New Jersey's licensed drivers each year during the program's first 10 years.

  • You need 20/50 vision, with or without corrective lenses. If you see with one eye only, that eye must meet the 20/50 rule and you must bring documentation signed by a licensed physician.

  • The division can check your vision, or a licensed optometrist or ophthalmologist can.

  • The screening can be certified by the division, a licensed optometrist, an ophthalmologist, an ophthalmic dispenser, or a licensed physician.

Drive test

You must pass an examination of your driving ability and your familiarity with how the vehicle works.

  • Yes

Tries you get on the written test

For the commercial driver license or an endorsement, if you fail the knowledge test the director can set the time and place of your next attempt.

  • If you fail, you can take it again in 7 days.

Practice questions for the written test

The Driver Manual is free on the MVC website, njmvc.gov.

  • The 2025 New Jersey Driver Manual is the MVC's own study material, with the information you need to pass the knowledge portion of the driver test.

Using an interpreter

If the knowledge test is not offered in your language, ask at your permit appointment and the MVC will arrange and pay for an interpreter, scheduled within four to six weeks; every agency also has the Language Link phone interpreting line, or you can bring your own interpreter to the counter. On the road test no one rides in the car except the MVC examiner, so no interpreter is possible there.

Practising with your permit

Who can sit with you while you practise

An adult with a valid New Jersey driver license, at least 21 years old and with at least three years of driving experience, must sit in the front seat with you.

  • Under the special permit, you drive in the company and under the control of a state-certified behind-the-wheel driving education teacher or a licensed driving-school instructor.

  • The supervising driver sits in the front passenger seat, holds a New Jersey license, is over 21, and has been licensed to drive a passenger automobile for at least three years.

What to bring to the drive test

Who comes with you

A special-permit holder can drive with a Division of Motor Vehicles representative in the car for the purpose of taking the driver's license examination.

  • The driver who comes with you must hold a valid license for the type of vehicle your permit covers. A moped is the exception: no accompanying driver is needed.

  • A New Jersey licensed driver who is at least 21 and has held their New Jersey license for at least three years must be at the road test with you, in addition to the MVC Safety Specialist who gives it. A license from another state does not count.

  • During the road test itself, no one rides in the car with you except the MVC examiner.

The car and its insurance

valid inspection sticker or official No Inspection Sticker Required card, valid registration card, valid insurance card or electronic insurance ID, Safety Specialist must be able to access an emergency brake and reach the foot brake or parking brake from the passenger seat, rental car only when the applicant is included as an additional driver and is of contract age, rental of a driving-school auto is permitted

  • New Jersey supplies no test vehicle; you bring your own. A rental car is accepted only if you are on the rental contract as an additional driver and meet the rental company's contract age, and renting a driving school car is also permitted.

  • Bring a registered car with a current inspection sticker and an insurance card, and the Safety Specialist must be able to reach the emergency brake from the passenger seat. The car is checked before the test, and a self-parking vehicle, an expired or missing inspection sticker, blocked brake access, tinted windows, or a defect such as poor brakes or unsafe tyres costs you the whole appointment.

  • The examiner can refuse the test on the car alone, without letting you drive at all. The published rejection list covers the inspection sticker, examiner access to a brake, defects in brakes, lights, tyres, seat belts, mirrors or glass, tint on the driver or front door windows, an interior that is not reasonably clean, a fast engine idle, doors or windows that do not open from inside, and for motorcycle and moped tests a missing helmet, unapproved goggles or face shield, or no bell or horn that can be heard 100 feet away.

Where to go

Who gives the tests

A Safety Specialist from the New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission rides with you, in an off-road testing area or on a public road course.

  • An MVC Safety Specialist, an agency employee rather than a driving school, gives the road test in an off-road testing area or on a public road course, and it takes 10 to 15 minutes. Backup cameras and parking sensors already installed on the car are allowed during the test.

Booking an appointment

Out-of-state transfer, permit, knowledge test, road test and REAL ID are each booked as a separate appointment on one portal, telegov.njportal.com/njmvc. MVC mobile units use their own scheduler at telegov.njportal.com/njmvcmobileunit.

  • The road test needs an appointment. You can book it at telegov.njportal.com/njmvc, or in person at a driver testing center.

Office locations

You can find licensing centers at nj.gov/mvc/locations/liccenters.htm.

Other states

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Every source, quoted37 sources

Every fact on this page is quoted from the page that publishes it, in the words it uses.

  • “Examination Permit (auto) 17 Applicant must complete permit application (Non-GDL) 90 days 10”

    nj.gov/mvc/license/licfees.htm

    Checked August 1, 2026

  • “Standard basic driver's license: $18.”

    r.jina.ai/https://lis.njleg.state.nj.us/nxt/gateway.dll/statutes/1/32635/32752

    Checked August 1, 2026

  • “The fee for licenses with expiration dates fixed by the commission shall be fixed by the commission in amounts proportionately less or greater than the fee herein established.”

    r.jina.ai/https://lis.njleg.state.nj.us/nxt/gateway.dll/statutes/1/32635/32752

    Checked August 1, 2026

  • “No fee over and above the required fee for a driver's license shall be imposed for the special driver's license.”

    r.jina.ai/https://lis.njleg.state.nj.us/nxt/gateway.dll/statutes/1/32635/32828

    Checked August 4, 2026

  • “Every driver operating a state, county or city owned motor vehicle or motor cycle exclusively for the use of the state, county or city shall be licensed to do so without charge by the commissioner in accordance with this chapter.”

    r.jina.ai/https://lis.njleg.state.nj.us/nxt/gateway.dll/statutes/1/32635/32854

    Checked August 4, 2026

  • “Applicants from the Republic of China (Taiwan) are required to present a valid Verification of Certificate of Driver’s License from the Republic of China (Taiwan).”

    nj.gov/mvc/drivertopics/movetonj.htm

    Checked August 19, 2026

  • “If you have a driver license from another state, and it is currently valid or expired less than one (1) year ago, you should make an appointment for an out-of-state transfer.”

    nj.gov/mvc/pdf/license/FAQ_firsttime.pdf

    Checked August 3, 2026

  • “expired more than three years.”

    nj.gov/mvc/pdf/license/Standard_License_Sheet_Engl.pdf

    Checked August 4, 2026

  • “It will be used in the administration of motor vehicle, tax and child support laws, to identify individuals affected by such laws.”

    nj.gov/mvc/pdf/license/BA-208.pdf

    Checked August 4, 2026

  • “**Submission of your social security number or individual taxpayer identification number is required by law.”

    nj.gov/mvc/pdf/license/BA-208.pdf

    Checked August 4, 2026

  • “the division shall reexamine approximately 10% of all of the State's licensed drivers in each year during the first 10 years following the date this act becomes operative.”

    r.jina.ai/https://lis.njleg.state.nj.us/nxt/gateway.dll/statutes/1/32635/32756

    Checked August 4, 2026

  • “Basic License Applicants: 20/50 vision with or without corrective lenses. For sight in one eye only, that eye must meet the 20/50 rule and the applicant must have documentation signed by a licensed physician.”

    nj.gov/mvc/pdf/license/drivermanual.pdf

    Checked August 3, 2026

  • “a test of his vision, by the division or by any licensed optometrist or ophthalmologist.”

    r.jina.ai/https://lis.njleg.state.nj.us/nxt/gateway.dll/statutes/1/32635/32757

    Checked August 4, 2026

  • “The vision screening may be certified by the division or by any licensed optometrist or ophthalmologist, licensed ophthalmic dispenser or by any person licensed to practice medicine and surgery.”

    r.jina.ai/https://lis.njleg.state.nj.us/nxt/gateway.dll/statutes/1/32635/32755

    Checked August 4, 2026

  • “has passed a satisfactory examination in ascertainment of the applicant's driving ability and familiarity with the mechanism of said vehicle”

    r.jina.ai/https://lis.njleg.state.nj.us/nxt/gateway.dll/statutes/1/32635/32784

    Checked August 4, 2026

  • “Take Your Road Test.”

    nj.gov/mvc/license/firstlic.htm

    Checked August 3, 2026

  • “The director may require those persons who fail to satisfactorily complete a knowledge test for the commercial driver license or an endorsement on the initial attempt to take those knowledge tests for a second or subsequent time at a time and place selected by the director.”

    r.jina.ai/https://lis.njleg.state.nj.us/nxt/gateway.dll/statutes/1/32635/32814

    Checked August 4, 2026

  • “IF YOU FAIL, you can re-test in 7 days.”

    nj.gov/mvc/license/firstlic.htm

    Checked July 23, 2026

  • “You can access the Driver Manual on the New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission (MVC) website www.njmvc.gov. This MVC Driver Manual is available at no cost.”

    nj.gov/mvc/pdf/license/drivermanual.pdf

    Checked July 27, 2026

  • “The New Jersey Driver Manual will help you learn and understand safe driving practices. This manual provides valuable information that you will need to pass the knowledge portion of New Jersey’s driver test. The manual will offer you important”

    nj.gov/mvc/pdf/license/drivermanual.pdf

    Checked July 27, 2026

  • “The written tests are offered in the following languages: English, Arabic, Chinese (Mandarin), French, Spanish, Korean, Polish, Portuguese, Russian, Japanese, Hindi, Albanian, and Turkish. Oral tests are offered in English and Spanish.”

    nj.gov/mvc/license/knowledgetest.htm

    Checked August 3, 2026

  • “Permit holder must be accompanied in the front seat by an adult supervising driver who is at least 21 years of age and who possesses a valid New Jersey driver license and has a minimum of three years’ driving experience.”

    nj.gov/mvc/pdf/license/drivermanual.pdf

    Checked August 3, 2026

  • “while in the company of and under the control of a teacher, certified by the State Department of Education as authorized to instruct in an approved behind-the-wheel automobile driving education course or a duly licensed instructor of a drivers' school”

    r.jina.ai/https://lis.njleg.state.nj.us/nxt/gateway.dll/statutes/1/32635/32846

    Checked August 4, 2026

  • “while in the company and under the supervision, from the front passenger seat, of a licensed motor vehicle driver of this State who is over 21 years of age and has been licensed to drive a passenger automobile for at least three years.”

    r.jina.ai/https://lis.njleg.state.nj.us/nxt/gateway.dll/statutes/1/32635/32847

    Checked August 4, 2026

  • “or while in the company of a representative of the Division of Motor Vehicles for the purpose of submitting to examination for a driver's license.”

    r.jina.ai/https://lis.njleg.state.nj.us/nxt/gateway.dll/statutes/1/32635/32846

    Checked August 4, 2026

  • “• Applicant must be accompanied by a licensed driver. (The accompanying driver must hold a valid license to operate the type of vehicle for which the applicant has a permit, except for a moped.)”

    nj.gov/mvc/pdf/license/drivermanual.pdf

    Checked July 27, 2026

  • “An accompanying New Jersey licensed driver who is at least age 21 and has had their New Jersey driver’s license for at least three years.”

    nj.gov/mvc/license/roadtest.htm

    Checked July 23, 2026

  • “However, for road tests, no one can ride in the car with you except for the MVC examiner.”

    nj.gov/mvc/pdf/license/FAQ_firsttime.pdf

    Checked August 4, 2026

  • “Valid inspection sticker on vehicle or official “No Inspection Sticker Required” card, valid registration card and valid insurance ID card or electronic version for vehicle used for the test”

    nj.gov/mvc/pdf/license/drivermanual.pdf

    Checked August 1, 2026

  • “Rental cars are acceptable only if the driver taking the test is included on the rental contract as an additional driver and is of contract age. The rental of a driving school auto is permitted.”

    nj.gov/mvc/license/roadtest.htm

    Checked July 23, 2026

  • “You will be denied a road test based on your vehicle if: It is deemed unsafe or unsuitable for a road test. It has an improper, expired, or no inspection sticker. Equipment in the vehicle prevents the Safety Specialist from reaching the foot or parking brakes. It is a self-parking vehicle.”

    nj.gov/mvc/license/roadtest.htm

    Checked July 23, 2026

  • “Reasons for Rejection Most applicants believe that their driving performance is the only criterion the examiner uses to grade their road test. However, the vehicle may be the cause for denial or failure of the road test. Some license applicants may not have the opportunity to take an initial road test because an examiner considers the vehicle unsuitable or unsafe for the test. NEW JERSEY DRIVER TESTING Page 37 Here are some of the more common reasons the MVC rejects road test vehicles: • Improper, expired or no inspection sticker • Lack of examiner access to foot brake or parking brake • Any defect or condition that affects the safe operation of the test vehicle, such as but not limited to: • Poor brakes (pedal must not fade or go to the floorboard) • Dashboard brake warning light on • Parking brake, brake lights, or signal lights not working • Unsafe tires (smooth, cut, badly worn) • Vehicle interior is not in reasonably clean condition • Vehicle failed inspection, and motorist does not bring the Vehicle Inspection Report issued by the inspection station to the road test area • Fast engine idle (cannot judge speed control) • Missing seat belts (seat belts are required on all vehicles manufactured after July 1, 1966) • Tinting on driver and/or front door windows • Missing rear-view mirrors – interior and/or driver door • Broken or cracked window glass • Passenger and/or driver’s door or window does not operate from the inside • Additional items for motorcycles and moped tests only: • Lack of equipment required by state regulations • No helmet • Unapproved goggles or face shield • No bell or horn that can be heard 100 feet away”

    nj.gov/mvc/pdf/license/drivermanual.pdf

    Checked July 27, 2026

  • “A Safety Specialist (Examiner) will accompany you while driving in an off-road testing area or on a public road course.”

    nj.gov/mvc/license/roadtest.htm

    Checked August 3, 2026

  • “A Safety Specialist (Examiner) will accompany you while driving in an off-road testing area or on a public road course. The test will take approximately 10 to 15 minutes.”

    nj.gov/mvc/license/roadtest.htm

    Checked July 23, 2026

  • “* [MAKE APPOINTMENT](https://www.nj.gov/mvc/about/contact.htm) * [License Renewal](https://telegov.njportal.com/njmvc) * [Out of State License Transfer](https://telegov.njportal.com/njmvc) * [REAL ID](https://telegov.njportal.com/njmvc) * [Permit](https://telegov.njportal.com/njmvc) * [Non Driver ID](https://telegov.njportal.com/njmvc) * [New Title or Registration](https://telegov.njportal.com/njmvc) * [Registration Renewal](https://telegov.njportal.com/njmvc) * [Knowledge Test](https://telegov.njportal.com/njmvc) * [Road Test](https://telegov.njportal.com/njmvc)”

    r.jina.ai/https://www.nj.gov/mvc/about/contact.htm

    Checked August 2, 2026

  • “You may schedule your road test online at this link. -> https://telegov.njportal.com/njmvc”

    nj.gov/mvc/license/roadtest.htm

    Checked July 23, 2026

  • “Licensing Center”

    nj.gov/mvc/license/firstlic.htm

    Checked July 23, 2026

Applying for a driver's license in New Jersey?

Answer a few questions and see the steps that apply to you.

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