New Jersey Driver Manual Study Notes

Page 1

  • 1918

  • EMVC

  • New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission.

  • 2025

  • NEW JERSEY

  • DRIVER MANUAL

  • NO ASK

  • BBB BE 202

  • www.BE

  • www.njmvc.gov

Page 2

  • WELCOME TO DRIVING IN NEW JERSEY!

    • The New Jersey Driver Manual aims to educate drivers on safe driving practices.

    • Essential info provided to assist in passing the knowledge portion of New Jersey’s driver test.

    • Key elements aimed at making drivers safe, courteous, and aware.

    • Existing New Jersey drivers can refresh their knowledge of laws and rules of the road through this manual.

    • Key Reminder: Driving is a privilege, not a right.

    • Manual serves as a general guide; it should not replace actual laws. Statutes and regulations take precedence over the manual contents.

    • Free access to the Driver Manual on the MVC website at www.njmvc.gov.

Page 3

  • Table of Contents

    • CHAPTER 1 The New Jersey Driver License System (Page 2)

    • CHAPTER 2 New Jersey Driver Testing (Page 28)

    • CHAPTER 3 Driver Responsibility (Page 38)

    • CHAPTER 4 Safe Driving Rules and Regulations (Page 60)

    • CHAPTER 5 Defensive Driving (Page 88)

    • CHAPTER 6 Drinking, Drugs, and Health (Page 112)

    • CHAPTER 7 Driver Privileges and Penalties (Page 120)

    • CHAPTER 8 Sharing the Road with Others (Page 142)

    • CHAPTER 9 Vehicle Information (Page 156)

    • CHAPTER 10 Motorcycle Manual (Page 162)

    • Appendices

    • CHAPTER 11 Driver Safety (Page 210)

    • CHAPTER 12 MVC Locations (Page 224)

Page 4

  • Chapter 1: The New Jersey Driver License System

Page 5

  • Section Contents

    • Laws Governing Driver Licenses (Page 6)

    • Digital Driver License (Page 6)

    • Types of New Jersey Licenses (Page 9)

    • Identity Verification (Page 14)

    • Graduated Driver License (GDL) (Page 19)

    • Special Learner Permits for New Jersey Residents (Page 20)

    • Examination Permits for New Jersey Residents (Page 21)

    • Examination Permits for Out-of-State Drivers (Page 21)

    • Examination Permits for Out-of-Country Drivers (Page 22)

    • International Driving Permit (IDP) (Page 22)

    • Non-Driver ID (Page 22)

    • Organ Donation (Page 23)

    • Next-of-Kin Registry (Sara’s Law) (Page 24)

    • Motor Voter (Page 24)

    • Hearing-Impaired Designation (Page 24)

    • Commercial Driver License (CDL) (Page 24)

Page 6

Laws Governing Driver Licenses

  • Key Requirements

    • A motorist must carry:

    • A valid driver license, probationary license, or validated New Jersey permit.

    • Valid insurance and vehicle registration cards.

    • (Reference: N.J.S.A. 39:3-29)

    • A motorist with a validated New Jersey driver permit must be accompanied by an appropriately licensed driver.

    • (Reference: N.J.S.A. 39:3-13, 39:3-13.2a)

    • Change of address must be reported to the MVC within one week. This applies to individuals moving out of New Jersey as well.

    • (Reference: N.J.S.A. 39:3-36)

    • Name changes due to marriage, divorce, or court orders must be reported within two weeks.

    • (Reference: N.J.S.A. 39:3-9a)

    • Out-of-state license holders moving to New Jersey must apply for a New Jersey license within 60 days of moving.

    • (Reference: N.J.S.A. 39:3-17.1, 39:3-10.17, 39:3-10)

      • Out- of- state licenses must be surrendered upon receipt of a New Jersey license.

      • Valid international licenses are accepted for up to one year.

      • (Reference: N.J.A.C. 13:21-8.2(f))

    • Commercial vehicle operators must meet stringent testing standards but must hold a basic New Jersey driver license to apply for a CDL.

    • (Reference: N.J.S.A. 39:3-10.18)

    • First-time drivers must complete MVC’s Graduated Driver License (GDL) Program for phased privileges.

    • (Reference: N.J.S.A. 39:3-10, 39:3-13 through 39:13.4)

Page 7

  • Additional Requirements

    • Applicants under 18 need a consent form signed by a parent/guardian.

    • (Reference: N.J.S.A. 39:3-13 and 39:3-13.3)

    • Standard license applicants must present:

    • Proof of Social Security number or affidavit of ineligibility, proof of New Jersey residential address, and 6 points of identification.

    • Documents must be in English or accompanied by approved translations.

    • (Reference: N.J.S.A. 39:3-10, N.J.A.C. 13:21-1.3 and 13:21-8.2)

    • REAL ID applicants need:

    • 2 proofs of NJ residency, proof of full Social Security number, and 6 points of ID.

    • Must verify accordance with federal law.

    • (Reference: N.J.S.A. 39:3-3.10 and N.J.A.C. 13:21-8.2A)

    • GDL decals required for drivers under 21 with permits.

    • (Reference: N.J.S.A. 39:3-13(g), 39:3-13.2a(a), and 39:3-13.4(f))

    • Disclaimer: Statute or regulation governs in cases of discrepancies in the manual.

Digital Driver License

  • In 2021, New Jersey updated its license design with modern security features and central issuance from a secure facility.

  • Features of the digital driver license (DDL) include facial recognition technology for identity protection.

  • Distinctive vertical format for motorists under 21.

  • DDL validity is four years.

  • Altering any driver license may lead to loss of driving privileges and fines up to $1,000 or imprisonment.

  • Illegally obtaining a driver license could lead to fines up to $500 or imprisonment.

Types of New Jersey Licenses

  • Various types of driver licenses are issued, such as:

    • Basic Automobile License (Standard/REAL ID):

    • Expiration: 4 Years

    • Minimum Age: 18 (Permit: 16)

    • Permit Fee: $10

    • License Fee: $24/$35

    • Tests Required: KVR1

    • Probationary Automobile License (Standard/REAL ID):

    • Expiration: 4 Years

    • Minimum Age: 17 (Permit: 16)

    • Permit Fee: $10 + $4 for decals

    • License Fee: $63

    • Tests Required: KVR1

    • Commercial Driver License (Standard/REAL ID):

    • Class A, B, C for trucks and buses.

    • Expiration: 4 Years

    • Minimum Age: 18/21

    • Permit Fee: $125

    • License Fee: $42 + $2 for endorsements, $53 + $2 for endorsements

    • Tests Required: CKVR1

    • Motorcycle License (Standard/REAL ID):

    • For vehicles with fewer than 4 wheels (Class E).

    • Expiration: 4 Years

    • Minimum Age: 17 (Permit Fee: $10 + $4 for decals)

    • License Fee: $24/$35

    • Tests Required: KVR1

    • Moped License (Standard/REAL ID):

    • For unlicensed motorists 15+

    • Expiration: 4 Years

    • Minimum Age: 15

    • License Fee: $6/$17

    • Tests Required: KVR1

    • Agricultural License (Standard/REAL ID):

    • For farming purposes only (16-17 years old).

    • Expiration: 4 Years

    • Minimum Age: 16

    • Permit Fee: $10

    • License Fee: $6/$17

    • Tests Required: KVR1

    • Boat License (Standard/REAL ID endorsements only):

    • For individuals 16+ operating on non-tidal waters.

    • Expiration: 4 Years

    • License Fee: $24

    • Tests Required: n/a

Identity Verification

  • Standard New Jersey driver license applicants must have 6 points of ID confirmed through:

    • Primary documents

    • Secondary documents

    • Proof of NJ residential address

    • All documents should adhere to the ID verification protocol specified by the MVC.

  • REAL ID New Jersey driver license applicants must present a combination of documents that verify their identity and legal presence in the United States:

    • 2 + 1 + 6 Method for verification:

    • Two proofs of NJ residency

    • One proof of Social Security number

    • At least six points of ID

  • Additional documentation is required for those who have legally changed their names.

    • Name change evidence, such as marriage certificates or court orders, must be presented to verify the name change appropriately.

    • All documents must be original or certified copies, in English and must meet the respective state seal requirements.

Introductory Information

  • 1918

  • EMVC

  • New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission.

  • 2025

  • NEW JERSEY

  • DRIVER MANUAL

  • NO ASK

  • BBB BE 202

  • www.BE

  • www.njmvc.gov

  • WELCOME TO DRIVING IN NEW JERSEY! - The New Jersey Driver Manual aims to educate drivers on safe driving practices.

    • Essential info provided to assist in passing the knowledge portion of New Jersey’s driver test.

    • Key elements aimed at making drivers safe, courteous, and aware.

    • Existing New Jersey drivers can refresh their knowledge of laws and rules of the road through this manual.

    • Key Reminder: Driving is a privilege, not a right.

    • Manual serves as a general guide; it should not replace actual laws. Statutes and regulations take precedence over the manual contents.

    • Free access to the Driver Manual on the MVC website at www.njmvc.gov.

Table of Contents

  • CHAPTER 1 The New Jersey Driver License System (Page 2)

  • CHAPTER 2 New Jersey Driver Testing (Page 28)

  • CHAPTER 3 Driver Responsibility (Page 38)

  • CHAPTER 4 Safe Driving Rules and Regulations (Page 60)

  • CHAPTER 5 Defensive Driving (Page 88)

  • CHAPTER 6 Drinking, Drugs, and Health (Page 112)

  • CHAPTER 7 Driver Privileges and Penalties (Page 120)

  • CHAPTER 8 Sharing the Road with Others (Page 142)

  • CHAPTER 9 Vehicle Information (Page 156)

  • CHAPTER 10 Motorcycle Manual (Page 162)

  • Appendices

  • CHAPTER 11 Driver Safety (Page 210)

  • CHAPTER 12 MVC Locations (Page 224)

Ch 1 Notes: The New Jersey Driver License System

Section Contents

  • Laws Governing Driver Licenses (Page 6)

  • Digital Driver License (Page 6)

  • Types of New Jersey Licenses (Page 9)

  • Identity Verification (Page 14)

  • Graduated Driver License (GDL) (Page 19)

  • Special Learner Permits for New Jersey Residents (Page 20)

  • Examination Permits for New Jersey Residents (Page 21)

  • Examination Permits for Out-of-State Drivers (Page 21)

  • Examination Permits for Out-of-Country Drivers (Page 22)

  • International Driving Permit (IDP) (Page 22)

  • Non-Driver ID (Page 22)

  • Organ Donation (Page 23)

  • Next-of-Kin Registry (Sara’s Law) (Page 24)

  • Motor Voter (Page 24)

  • Hearing-Impaired Designation (Page 24)

  • Commercial Driver License (CDL) (Page 24)

Laws Governing Driver Licenses

  • Key Requirements - A motorist must carry:

    • A valid driver license, probationary license, or validated New Jersey permit.

    • Valid insurance and vehicle registration cards.

    • (Reference: N.J.S.A. 39:3-29)

    • A motorist with a validated New Jersey driver permit must be accompanied by an appropriately licensed driver.

    • (Reference: N.J.S.A. 39:3-13, 39:3-13.2a)

    • Change of address must be reported to the MVC within one week. This applies to individuals moving out of New Jersey as well.

    • (Reference: N.J.S.A. 39:3-36)

    • Name changes due to marriage, divorce, or court orders must be reported within two weeks.

    • (Reference: N.J.S.A. 39:3-9a)

    • Out-of-state license holders moving to New Jersey must apply for a New Jersey license within 60 days of moving.

    • (Reference: N.J.S.A. 39:3-17.1, 39:3-10.17, 39:3-10) - Out- of- state licenses must be surrendered upon receipt of a New Jersey license.

      • Valid international licenses are accepted for up to one year.

      • (Reference: N.J.A.C. 13:21-8.2(f))

    • Commercial vehicle operators must meet stringent testing standards but must hold a basic New Jersey driver license to apply for a CDL.

    • (Reference: N.J.S.A. 39:3-10.18)

    • First-time drivers must complete MVC’s Graduated Driver License (GDL) Program for phased privileges.

    • (Reference: N.J.S.A. 39:3-10, 39:3-13 through 39:13.4)

  • Additional Requirements - Applicants under 18 need a consent form signed by a parent/guardian.

    • (Reference: N.J.S.A. 39:3-13 and 39:3-13.3)

    • Standard license applicants must present:

    • Proof of Social Security number or affidavit of ineligibility, proof of New Jersey residential address, and 6 points of identification.

    • Documents must be in English or accompanied by approved translations.

    • (Reference: N.J.S.A. 39:3-10, N.J.A.C. 13:21-1.3 and 13:21-8.2)

    • REAL ID applicants need:

    • 2 proofs of NJ residency, proof of full Social Security number, and 6 points of ID.

    • Must verify accordance with federal law.

    • (Reference: N.J.S.A. 39:3-3.10 and N.J.A.C. 13:21-8.2A)

    • GDL decals required for drivers under 21 with permits.

    • (Reference: N.J.S.A. 39:3-13(g), 39:3-13.2a(a), and 39:3-13.4(f))

    • Disclaimer: Statute or regulation governs in cases of discrepancies in the manual.

Digital Driver License

  • In 2021, New Jersey updated its license design with modern security features and central issuance from a secure facility.

  • Features of the digital driver license (DDL) include facial recognition technology for identity protection.

  • Distinctive vertical format for motorists under 21.

  • DDL validity is four years.

  • Altering any driver license may lead to loss of driving privileges and fines up to 1,0001,000 or imprisonment.

  • Illegally obtaining a driver license could lead to fines up to 500500 or imprisonment.

Types of New Jersey Licenses

  • Various types of driver licenses are issued, such as:

    • Basic Automobile License (Standard/REAL ID):

      • Expiration: 4 Years

      • Minimum Age: 18 (Permit: 16)

      • Permit Fee: 1010

      • License Fee: 24/</p></li><li><p>TestsRequired:KVR1</p></li></ul></li><li><p>ProbationaryAutomobileLicense(Standard/REALID):</p><ul><li><p>Expiration:4Years</p></li><li><p>MinimumAge:17(Permit:16)</p></li><li><p>PermitFee:24/</p></li><li><p>Tests Required: KVR1</p></li></ul></li><li><p>Probationary Automobile License (Standard/REAL ID):</p><ul><li><p>Expiration: 4 Years</p></li><li><p>Minimum Age: 17 (Permit: 16)</p></li><li><p>Permit Fee:10 +

      • License Fee: 6363

      • Tests Required: KVR1

    • Commercial Driver License (Standard/REAL ID):

      • Class A, B, C for trucks and buses.

      • Expiration: 4 Years

      • Minimum Age: 18/21

      • Permit Fee: 125125

      • License Fee: 42+</p></li><li><p>TestsRequired:CKVR1</p></li></ul></li><li><p>MotorcycleLicense(Standard/REALID):</p><ul><li><p>Forvehicleswithfewerthan4wheels(ClassE).</p></li><li><p>Expiration:4Years</p></li><li><p>MinimumAge:17(PermitFee:42 +</p></li><li><p>Tests Required: CKVR1</p></li></ul></li><li><p>Motorcycle License (Standard/REAL ID):</p><ul><li><p>For vehicles with fewer than 4 wheels (Class E).</p></li><li><p>Expiration: 4 Years</p></li><li><p>Minimum Age: 17 (Permit Fee:10 +

      • License Fee: 24/</p></li><li><p>TestsRequired:KVR1</p></li></ul></li><li><p>MopedLicense(Standard/REALID):</p><ul><li><p>Forunlicensedmotorists24/</p></li><li><p>Tests Required: KVR1</p></li></ul></li><li><p>Moped License (Standard/REAL ID):</p><ul><li><p>For unlicensed motorists15+</p></li><li><p>Expiration:4Years</p></li><li><p>MinimumAge:15</p></li><li><p>LicenseFee:</p></li><li><p>Expiration: 4 Years</p></li><li><p>Minimum Age: 15</p></li><li><p>License Fee:6/

      • Tests Required: KVR1

    • Agricultural License (Standard/REAL ID):

      • For farming purposes only (16-17 years old).

      • Expiration: 4 Years

      • Minimum Age: 16

      • Permit Fee: 1010

      • License Fee: 6/</p></li><li><p>TestsRequired:KVR1</p></li></ul></li><li><p>BoatLicense(Standard/REALIDendorsementsonly):</p><ul><li><p>Forindividuals6/</p></li><li><p>Tests Required: KVR1</p></li></ul></li><li><p>Boat License (Standard/REAL ID endorsements only):</p><ul><li><p>For individuals16+operatingonnon−tidalwaters.</p></li><li><p>Expiration:4Years</p></li><li><p>LicenseFee:operating on non-tidal waters.</p></li><li><p>Expiration: 4 Years</p></li><li><p>License Fee:24$$

      • Tests Required: n/a

Identity Verification

  • Standard New Jersey driver license applicants must have 6 points of ID confirmed through:

    • Primary documents

    • Secondary documents

    • Proof of NJ residential address

    • All documents should adhere to the ID verification protocol specified by the MVC.

  • REAL ID New Jersey driver license applicants must present a combination of documents that verify their identity and legal presence in the United States:

    • 2 + 1 + 6 Method for verification:

      • Two proofs of NJ residency

      • One proof of Social Security number

      • At least six points of ID

  • Additional documentation is required for those who have legally changed their names.

    • Name change evidence, such as marriage certificates or court orders, must be presented to verify the name change appropriately.

    • All documents must be original or certified copies, in English and must meet the respective state seal requirements.