New Driver Permit Requirements & Laws in New Jersey

Adventure Driving School | Serving Bergen & Passaic County, NJ

Getting your permit is the first big step toward becoming a safe, confident driver. At Adventure Driving School, we guide learners through the process and help you understand the rules so you’re prepared from day one.

1. The Graduated Driver License (GDL) System

New Jersey uses a GDL program, which means your driving privileges increase gradually.

Learn more about the NJ Graduated Driver License program and see full permit details in this helpful Zutobi Driver’s Ed guide.

Here are the basic phases:

• Special Learner’s Permit – Available at age 16 if you’re enrolled in a state‑approved behind‑the‑wheel program.
  Learn more at Zutobi Driver’s Ed

• Examination Permit – Typically issued at age 17+ after you meet learner permit requirements.
  Full details on Zutobi Driver’s Ed

• Probationary License – After passing your road test and completing required driving hours.
  Official info from NJ MVC

• Basic Driver License – The final step once you satisfy time, age and practice requirements.
  Learn more at NJ.gov

2. Key Permit Requirements

Here are some of the most important things you must satisfy:

• Be at least 16 years old to apply for a special learner’s permit with a qualified instructor.
  See details on Zutobi Driver’s Ed

• Complete an approved behind‑the‑wheel driving course and pass the written knowledge and vision tests.
  View NJ permit law on Justia

• Provide required documentation: proof of identity, residency, Social Security number, etc.
  See what documents you’ll need

• Once you have your permit, you must complete 50 hours of supervised driving, with 10 of those being at night.
  Read NJ driving requirement code on Justia

3. Permit Driving Restrictions

When you’re learning and holding a permit in New Jersey, there are some strict rules:

• You must be accompanied in the front seat by a supervising driver who’s at least 21 years old and has been licensed for 3+ years.
  Official NJ MVC Permit Restrictions

• Driving is not permitted between 11:01 p.m. and 5:00 a.m. for many young drivers.
  Curfew details from Cranford Police Department

• You’re restricted in the number of passengers and must use seat belts—no handheld devices of any kind while driving.
  Learn more from WHYY News

These rules apply until you reach the next level of your license (probationary, then basic).

4. Why These Rules Matter

Good question—why all the rules? Because they reduce risk while you’re gaining experience behind the wheel. By limiting distractions, unsupervised late‑night driving, and keeping extra passengers to a minimum, the GDL framework helps build your skills safely.
At Adventure Driving School, we focus on prepping you to meet these rules and move into full driving confidently.

5. How Adventure Driving School Helps

Here’s how we support learners:

• We offer state‑approved behind‑the‑wheel instruction, which is required for the permit process.

• We provide practice driving guidance, helping you log supervised hours correctly and responsibly.

• We tailor sessions around Bergen & Passaic County roads so you’re comfortable with local conditions and laws.

• We track your progress, explain the GDL milestones clearly, and prep you for the road test when the time comes.

🚦 Final Thoughts

If you're ready to begin your driving journey, knowing the rules and requirements sets you up for success.
At Adventure Driving School, we’re here to walk you through every step—from your permit to your basic license.

📍 Serving Elmwood Park, Lodi, Hackensack, Paterson, Paramus, Fair Lawn and all of Bergen & Passaic County, NJ.
🔗 Ready to take the next step? Visit AdventureDrivingSchool.net or call/text 201‑581‑1711 to schedule your lesson today.