New Jersey first-permit requirements

Age 16: Special Learner Permit

Enroll in approved behind-the-wheel training, obtain required parent/guardian consent, pass knowledge/vision testing and complete the six-hour instructor driving requirement before validated practice.

Age 17+: Examination Permit

Make a permit appointment, bring the required identity/address documentation and complete knowledge plus vision testing before supervised practice.

Under 21: use a qualified supervising driver

The supervisor must be at least 21, hold a valid New Jersey license and have at least three years of driving experience.

Under 21: plan for six months and 50/10 hours

Qualifying permits issued from February 1, 2025 require 50 hours including 10 during darkness before probationary licensure.

Under-21 applicants now have a documented practice-hour gate

For qualifying permits issued from February 1, 2025, the applicant must provide BA-CSD certification of at least 50 supervised hours including 10 during darkness before the probationary license can be issued.

The New Jersey first-license path

• Make an appointment and obtain your initial permit.
• Bring the required identification and residency documents.
• Pass the knowledge test and the 20/50 vision standard.
• Practice under the supervision rules for your age and permit type.
• Complete the required practice period and road test.
• Receive a probationary license, drive unsupervised for one year and then upgrade to a basic license.

Permit timing depends on age

The student learner's permit route begins at age 16 through approved behind-the-wheel driver training. The examination permit route begins at age 17. For GDL drivers under 21, supervised practice generally lasts at least six months; for GDL drivers over 21, it is at least three months.

You have two years to finish the early steps

The MVC first-driver process says that once you have the permit, you have two years to complete the knowledge/vision, supervised-practice and road-test steps and obtain the probationary license, or you need a new permit.