New Jersey Driver's Handbook, Section 1: The Driver License System and GDL
New Jersey's Graduated Driver License (GDL) program: the permits, the supervised driving, the probationary license and the restrictions for drivers under 21.
Summary written by MyPermitExam from the official handbook, 2026. Not a copy of the handbook. Checked Oct 2026. Not affiliated with the DMV. New Jersey Driver Manual
Key rules
- At 16 you can get a special learner permit through an approved behind-the-wheel course; at 17, an examination permit without a driving school. p. 15
- Drivers under 21 need six months of supervised practice with at least 50 hours, 10 of them in darkness, before the road test. p. 15
- After the road test comes a probationary license for at least one year; the basic license requires age 18. p. 15
- GDL drivers under 21 may not drive from 11:01 p.m. to 5:00 a.m., use any phone (even hands-free) or carry more than one passenger besides dependents. p. 18
- Two red reflective GDL decals go on the top left corner of the front and rear plates. p. 19
- A standard license requires six points of ID, proof of address and a Social Security number (or ITIN or affidavit). p. 9
- Report a change of address within one week; new residents must get a New Jersey license within 60 days. p. 4