New Jersey has introduced a new law aimed at ensuring young drivers gain sufficient practice before navigating the state's busy roads independently.

New Practice Hour Mandate

As of this month, New Jersey now requires drivers under 21 with a learner's permit to log a minimum of 50 hours of supervised driving practice, including at least 10 hours at night, over a six-month period. Parents or guardians must certify these hours before the teen can take their road test and obtain a probationary license. (See the News Release issued by the New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission here.

William Connolly, press secretary for the New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission (MVC), emphasized the importance of these supervised hours, explaining that the new rule aligns New Jersey with most other states. Previously, New Jersey was one of only three states—along with Arkansas and Mississippi—that did not require mandatory practice hours for new drivers.

Why the Change?

Tracy Noble, public and government affairs manager for AAA Club Alliance, highlighted the diverse driving conditions in New Jersey. “We live in the most densely populated state, with a mix of different traffic patterns and roadway types. New drivers need to be prepared for all of it,” she said.

Steps to Getting a License in New Jersey

1. Learner's Permit (Age 16)

Teens can obtain a special learner's permit at 16 if they are enrolled in a high school driver education program or a licensed driving school. To receive the permit, they must pass a written knowledge test and a vision exam and complete six hours of behind-the-wheel instruction with a licensed instructor. Once validated, the permit allows supervised practice driving.

2. Probationary License (Age 17)

To qualify for a probationary license, the driver must complete 50 hours of supervised driving and pass the road test. Probationary license holders may drive unsupervised but must adhere to restrictions, including:

• Driving only between 5 a.m. and 11 p.m.

• No use of handheld devices or cell phones

• A red decal displayed on the upper left-hand corner of the vehicle's license plate

• Limited passengers: only parents, guardians, dependents, or one additional passenger unless accompanied by a parent or guardian

3. Basic Driver's License (After One Year of Probationary Driving)

After maintaining a probationary license for one year, drivers can upgrade to a basic driver's license online. If they fail to do so within three and a half years, they must visit an MVC Licensing Center to renew their probationary license.

The Importance of Supervised Driving

Officials stress that hands-on experience is essential for new drivers to develop safe habits. Connolly pointed out that in a densely populated state like New Jersey, practice behind the wheel is critical in various driving conditions—daytime, nighttime, and different road environments.

Noble also emphasized that parents play a crucial role in their teen's driving education. “There's been an increase in unsafe driving behaviors, and we need parents to lead by example,” she said. “If you're nervous about driving with your teen, you need to push past that and actively participate in their learning process.”

Certification of Driving Hours

Once a teen completes the required 50 practice hours, a parent, guardian, or supervising driver must sign a form certifying their practice time. More details on licensing requirements can be found on the New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission's website.

If someone you know had an motor vehicle accident and sustained bodily or personal injuries involving a probationary driver in New Jersey then call the Khorozian Law group for a free consultation at (201) 944-9200.