Frequently Asked Questions

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Frequently Asked Questions

Am I required to take a motorcycle training course?
Motorcycle license applicants under 18 years of age, must enroll in a New Jersey-approved Basic Rider Course. Applicants over 18 years old or applicants applying for a motorcycle endorsement are not required to enroll in a BRC.

The New Jersey MVC no longer offers basic rider courses. In order to take motorcycle drivers education classes, applicants must contact a state-approved provider.

For more information: How to Apply for a Motorcycle License in New Jersey

Am I required to wear a helmet while riding a motorcycle?
New Jersey state laws require all motorcycle license holders to wear a DOT-approved helmet. Wearing a helmet is an important element of motorcycle safety as the proper use of helmets reduces the number and severity of head injuries in motorcycle accidents by half. When choosing a motorcycle helmet, make sure it fits properly, has no obvious defects, and is approved by Department of Transportation.

For more information: How to Apply for a Motorcycle License in New Jersey

Can I renew my commercial drivers license online?
No, online CDL renewals are not permitted by the NJ Motor Vehicle Commission at this time. Renewing CDL by mail is also not allowed. Commercial drivers must renew their CDL in person at a NJ MVC location every four years. When doing so, you must present required proof of identification along with the applicable fees and the completed application form you receive in the mail prior to the expiration date on your commercial drivers license.

For more information: New Jersey Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) Application

Can I take the DMV written test online?
No, the New Jersey DMV does not allow drivers permit applicants to take the written test online. To take the knowledge test, applicants must visit a DMV location and present forms of ID as required under the 6 Point ID Verification Program.

To prepare for the test, study the NJ Driver Manual as all the questions are based on information provided in the manual. It is also a good idea to take a few practice tests to better prepare for the DMV drivers exam.

For more information: Learner’s Permits for Beginner Drivers in New Jersey

Can I use my state CDL anywhere in the United States?
If you are a CDL holder moving to New Jersey, you have 60 days to transfer your license to drive commercial vehicles.

To transfer an out-of-state CDL to NJ, follow these steps:

  1. Head to your local NJ DMV
  2. Provide Medical Examination Report- Form RA-4
  3. Complete the CDL Holder Self-Certification form
  4. Purchase a $10 CDL transfer permit
  5. Pass a vision test
  6. Provide payment for the CDL transfer fee and required licensing fee

Additional forms and costs may apply if you are requesting to obtain additional endorsements on your commercial driving license.

For more information: New Jersey Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) Application

Do I need a motorcycle license to ride a scooter or moped?
Yes, NJ requires all operators of mopeds and scooters in the state to carry a valid driving license. You must be at least 15 years old to get a license to drive a moped or scooter. Drivers, who already have a standard drivers license, motorcycle license, or CDL, are not required to get a license in order to operate a moped.

To apply for a moped license, visit your local NJ MVC office and follow the steps provided below:

  1. Complete an application for a moped permit, obtainable at MVC offices across the state.
  2. Present proof of identity as required by the 6 Point ID Program.
  3. Pay the required permit fee.
  4. Pass the knowledge exam.
  5. Pass a vision test.
  6. Validate your permit.
  7. Practice riding for at least 20 days.
  8. Pass the motorcycle road test.
  9. Visit you local MVC office with your permit, ride slip and score sheet.
  10. Pay the required licensing fee.
  11. Get you moped drivers license.

For more information: How to Apply for a Motorcycle License in New Jersey

Do I need to take a drivers ed course?
To get a special learners permit, drivers must enroll in a drivers education course and present proof of enrollment when applying for an NJ learners permit. In addition, after successfully completing drivers ed school, drivers must revisit your NJ MVC location to get the permit validated and start practicing driving behind-the-wheel.

Attending a driver safety course is not required when getting an examination permit.

For more information: Learner’s Permits for Beginner Drivers in New Jersey

How can I get a veteran designation on my ID card?
The state of New Jersey allows veterans to display a special designation on their drivers licenses and ID cards. Veterans can request their honorary veteran s recognition sticker either in person or by mail.

To get a veteran designation on your ID in person, visit a New Jersey DMV and provide the following documents:

  • Your current NJ driving license or ID card
  • Your honorable military discharge or General Discharge under Honorable Conditions documents as proof of your veteran s status
  • A DD-214 form or report of Separation of Active Duty

To obtain a veteran designation on your ID by mail, you need to send photocopies of the documents listed above and a self-addressed stamped envelope to the following address:

NJMVC 225 E. State Street PO Box 129 Veterans Trenton, NJ 08610

For more information: How to Apply for a New Jersey Identification Card

How do I apply for a commercial drivers license?
To be eligible to obtain a commercial drivers license in New Jersey, applicants must:
  • Be at least 18 years old.
  • Have a valid New Jersey driving license.
  • Meet the physical requirements under Federal law.

To apply for a New Jersey CDL, applicants must follow these steps:

  1. Self-certify in one of the four CDL categories set by the FMCSA. You can download the CDL Holder Self-Certification form or get it at any MVC Office.
  2. Study the CDL Manual
  3. Visit a local MVC office
  4. Present documents that meet the 6 Point ID Verification Program
  5. Pay the $125 CDL permit fee
  6. Present a Medical Examiner s Certificate
  7. Pass the CDL written test
  8. Pass the CDL road test

For more information: New Jersey Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) Application

How do I apply for a learner’s permit?
First-time drivers in New Jersey must complete the NJ MVC Graduated Drivers License Program (GDL) in order to apply for a new drivers license. The NJ GDL program is implemented in several phases to help new drivers get the necessary experience and skills to apply for a full-unrestricted NJ driving license.

The phases of the New Jersey MVC GDL program are as follows:

  • Special learners permit (for 16 year olds)
  • Examination permit (for 17 year olds)
  • Probationary driver license (for 17 year olds)
  • Unrestricted driving license (for 18 year olds and over)

Drivers are required to obtain either a special learners permit or an examination permit depending on their age. Also, keep in mind that all permit holders must display a reflectorized decal on each license plate, which can be obtained at the NJ MVC offices.

SPECIAL LEARNERS PERMIT

To obtain a special learners permit you must be 16 years old and have already enrolled in a drivers ed course. If eligible, visit your local NJ DMV location with your driving ed instructor and follow the steps provided below to get your student learners permit:

  1. Present acceptable proof of identification
  2. Present proof of enrollment in a driving education school
  3. Submit a letter of consent signed by a parent/guardian
  4. Pass a vision exam
  5. Pass a written knowledge test
  6. Pay the learners permit fee

Once you complete your drivers ed course, go back to your NJ MVC location and get your special learners permit validated. The permit must be validated before you begin your supervised driving practice. You must hold your student learners permit for at least six months before moving on to a probationary drivers license.

EXAMINATION PERMIT

If you are a 17-year-old, first-time NJ driver, you need to obtain an examination permit. To get a NJ examination permit visit your local MVC office and proceed with these steps:

  1. Meet the requirements of the 6 Point ID Verification system.
  2. Pass a vision exam
  3. Pass a written knowledge exam
  4. Pay the examination permit fee

PROBATIONARY DRIVERS LICENSE

To get a probationary drivers license in New Jersey you must be at least 17 years old and have completed at least six months of supervised drivers training. To get a probationary drivers license, head to your local NJ DMV office and follow these steps:

  1. Meet the requirements of the 6 Point ID Verification Program
  2. Pass a road test
  3. Pay applicable fees

For more information: Learner’s Permits for Beginner Drivers in New Jersey

How do I apply for a motorcycle license?
The state of New Jersey issues a motorcycle license (Class E) as a separate motorcycle driving license and as an endorsement on your existing NJ driving license. If you are under 18 years of age, you must obtain a motorcycle learners permit before obtaining an unrestricted motorcycle driving license.

In order to get a motorcycle permit, applicants must:

  • Be at least 17 years old.
  • Visit your local MVC office.
  • Complete the required application form obtained at NJ MVC locations.
  • Present proof of identity as required by the 6 Point ID Program.
  • Pay $5 motorcycle permit fee.
  • Pass a written knowledge test.
  • Pass a vision test.

In order to get a motorcycle drivers license, you must:

  • Take a Basic Rider Course at a state-approved Motorcycle Safety Education Program (if under 18 years of age).
  • Practice riding for three to six months depending on your age.
  • Pass a Motorcycle road test at a MVC testing facility.
  • Get probationary motorcycle license (Class E).
  • Hold your probationary motorcycle license for one year.
  • Apply for an unrestricted motorcycle driving license.
  • Pay required fees.

If you choose to get a motorcycle endorsement on your existing NJ drivers license, you must:

  • Take a Basic Rider Course at a state-approved Motorcycle Safety Education Program (if under 18 years of age). If you take the course, you are not required to pass a motorcycle road test.
  • Present course completion documents at a MVC testing facility, as well as proof of identity as required by the 6 Point ID Program to get a motorcycle permit.
  • Practice riding for at least 20 days.
  • Pass a motorcycle road test at a MVC testing facility, if you have not completed a Basic Rider Course.
  • Pay the required fee.

For more information: How to Apply for a Motorcycle License in New Jersey

How do I get a duplicate ID card?
If your New Jersey identification card is lost, stolen, destroyed or damaged, you must obtain a duplicate ID from the NJ Motor Vehicle Commission.

To replace your lost ID card, follow these steps:

  1. Visit a local NJ DMV location
  2. Provide proof of identity
  3. Submit a completed Application for Driver’s License (Form BA-208
  4. Pay the $11 identification card replacement fee

The NJ DMV does not issue identification card copies by mail or online.

For more information: How to Apply for a New Jersey Identification Card

How do I renew my driving permit?
All NJ driving permits issued under the Graduated Drivers License program are valid for two years. If a permit expires, NJ drivers must follow the same procedure required to obtain a new permit which requires following these steps:
  1. Visit a New Jersey DMV near you
  2. Meet the requirements of the 6 Point ID Verification system
  3. Pass the required tests
  4. Pay applicable fees

Please note that only student learner s permits can be renewed after their expiration date.

For more information: Learner’s Permits for Beginner Drivers in New Jersey

How do I renew my ID card?
A New Jersey identification card is good for four years and must be renewed either in person or by mail before it expires.

If you are eligible to renew by mail, the NJ MVC will send you a “Skip the Trip” package, which outlines all the requirements you must meet. You will need to complete the renewal application and provide payment in the form of check or money order made out to the DMV.

To apply for an ID card renewal in person, visit at your local NJ DMV and provide documents that satisfy the 6 Point ID verification requirements. You must also pay $24 renewal fee.

For more information: How to Apply for a New Jersey Identification Card

How do I renew my medical report for a commercial license?
In order to get a license to drive commercial vehicles, you must comply with the regulations set by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). This means that you must have a physical exam by a licensed physician who will complete and sign the Medical Examination Report- Form RA-4 (also known as a U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) medical certificate).

The Medical Examination Report must be renewed every two years. New Jersey CDL holders must carry the Medical Examination Report at all times when operating a commercial motor vehicle.

For more information: New Jersey Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) Application

How do I renew my motorcycle license?
A NJ motorcycle driving license is valid for four years and must be renewed in person at a NJ Motor Vehicle Commission office. When renewing motorcycle license, drivers are required to present the following documents:
  • Your expired NJ license to drive a motorcycle
  • Payment for the renewal fee
  • Documents that meet the 6-point identification verification requirements:
    • One primary proof of identity
    • One secondary proof of identity
    • Proof of valid Social Security Number
    • Proof of address

For more information: How to Apply for a Motorcycle License in New Jersey

How does a military member obtain a motorcycle license?
The requirements for military members to obtain a motorcycle license are the same as for regular NJ residents. Applicants must follow these steps:
  1. Complete an application form at any NJ DMV location
  2. Provide proof of identity as required by the New Jersey 6 point ID program
  3. Pass the required tests
  4. Pay applicable fees

If you are on active duty or you are a member of the New Jersey National Guard, your NJ motorcycle driving license will be automatically extended until you are fully discharged. Make sure you carry the extension letter and documents proving you are on active duty when operating your vehicle.

For more information: How to Apply for a Motorcycle License in New Jersey

How long do I need my learners permit before I can get my drivers license?
To obtain a NJ drivers license, you must complete the stages of the New Jersey GDL program. This means that if you are 16 years old, you need to apply for a special learners permit, while if you are 17 years old you need to get an examination permit.

Drivers must hold either a special learners permit or an examination permit for at least six months before applying for a NJ probationary drivers license. Once a driver has held a probationary permit for at least one year, they can proceed to apply for a New Jersey driving license.

For more information: Learner’s Permits for Beginner Drivers in New Jersey

How long will it take to get my new ID card?
The NJ MVC usually takes about ten days to process the documentation and payment and issue a new, renewed or duplicate New Jersey identification card. If you have not received your NJ ID card within that time, contact the New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission and check the delivery status of your non-driver ID.

For more information: How to Apply for a New Jersey Identification Card

How often do I need to renew my CDL license?
A New Jersey commercial drivers license is valid for a period of four years. When your NJ CDL is about to expire, the NJ MVC will send you an application form by mail, which you must complete and present at your local MVC office.

In order to renew your expired CDL, visit your local MVC office and present the completed renewal application, your current CDL and documents that satisfy the requirements of the New Jersey 6 point identification program.

For more information: New Jersey Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) Application

If I’m out of state and lost my ID, how can I get a new one?
Military members currently on duty out of state or out of the country, who have lost their New Jersey identification card, cannot replace it by mail or online. If you lost your NJ ID card out of state, you must wait until you return to New Jersey to obtain a duplicate ID card. The NJ MVC only allows ID renewals by mail.

For more information: How to Apply for a New Jersey Identification Card

Is there a minimum age I have to be to get a commercial drivers license?
Yes, in New Jersey applicants must be at least 16 years of age and hold a valid NJ drivers license in order to obtain a New Jersey license to drive commercial vehicles. If you wish to drive a commercial motor vehicle outside the state of New Jersey or have a Class H endorsement on your CDL, you must be at least 21 years old.

For more information: New Jersey Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) Application

What are the age restrictions to ride a motorcycle?
To get a motorcycle license or a Class E endorsement in New Jersey, applicants must be at least 17 years old. All applicants under 18 must complete a Basic Rider Course to get NJ motorcycle driving license. They also have to submit a signed letter of consent from a parent/legal guardian when applying for a motorcycle permit.

To obtain a license to drive a moped or scooter, applicants must be at least 15 years old.

For more information: How to Apply for a Motorcycle License in New Jersey

What are the available commercial license endorsements?
The NJ commercial drivers license endorsements are as follows:
  • Class H- Hazardous Material
  • Class T- Towing a Double or Triple Trailer
  • Class S- School Bus
  • Class N- Liquid Bulk/Tank Cargo
  • Class P- Passenger/Transportation

Please note that different CDL endorsements entail different requirements, such as a Class P endorsement requires drivers to complete a fingerprint application, while drivers with Class H endorsement on their CDLs must be trained and retested every two years as required by Federal Law. In addition, keep in mind that you have to pay $2 fee for each endorsement you have on your license, in addition to the CDL fee.

For more information: New Jersey Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) Application

What are the fees associated with an ID card?
The ID-related fees in New Jersey are as follows:
  • New identification card: $24
  • ID card renewal: $24
  • Duplicate ID card: $11

For more information: How to Apply for a New Jersey Identification Card

What are the learners permit restrictions during my first year?
There are various restrictions in place for learners permit holders, depending on the type of driving permit you have obtained.

Student learner permit holders must:

  • Attend a drivers ed course.
  • Not drive between 11:01 p.m. and 5 a.m.
  • Be accompanied by a licensed adult.
  • Be supervised by a parent /guardian if you have more than one passenger.
  • Only have your parents/ guardians, or dependents as passengers.
  • Have a reflectorized decal on each of your license plates.

Examination permit holders must:

  • Not drive between 11:01 p.m. and 5 a.m.
  • Be accompanied by a licensed adult.
  • Be supervised by a parent /guardian if you have more than one passenger
  • Only have your parents, guardians, or dependents as passengers.
  • Have a reflectorized decal on each of your license plates.

Probationary drivers license holders must:

  • Not drive after 11:01 p.m. and before 5:00 a.m.
  • Be supervised by a parent /guardian if you have more than one passenger.
  • Not use cell phones, video games or other hands-free communication devices.
  • Wear seat belts at all times.
  • Have a reflectorized decal on each of your license plates.

Certain exemptions apply, such as hours-related exemptions for employment or religious reasons.

For more information: Learner’s Permits for Beginner Drivers in New Jersey

What are the medical certifications required to obtain a CDL?
In order to get a license to drive commercial vehicles, you must comply with the regulations set by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA). Applicants are required to have a physical exam conducted by a licensed physician, who will determine if an applicant is medically fit to operate a commercial vehicle safely and competently. The physician needs to complete and sign the Medical Examination Report- Form RA-4 (also known as a U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) medical certificate), which you must present when applying for a CDL and carry with you at all times while operating a CMV.

For more information: New Jersey Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) Application

What are the penalties for getting a traffic ticket with a driver’s permit?
If you are convicted of a traffic violation while holding a NJ learners permit, you run the risk of facing the same penalties as adult drivers. Penalties depend on the violation that you have committed and range from points being added to your driving record to a suspension of your driving privileges. In addition, both you and your instructor or supervising adult will bear the responsibility.

Bear in mind that stricter penalties are in place for DUI/DWI convictions, such as court-ordered community service and alcohol education and highway safety program participation.

For more information: How to Pay a Traffic Ticket in New Jersey

What are the requirements to operate a three-wheel motorcycle?
To operate a three-wheel motorcycle in New Jersey, you must take a Basic Rider Course for a three-wheel motorcycle. After you successfully complete the motorcycle safety education school, visit your local New Jersey DMV to get a motorcycle endorsement with a restriction for operating a 3-wheel motorcycle. Additionally, applicants must pass a vision test and pay the applicable fee.

For more information: How to Apply for a Motorcycle License in New Jersey

What documents do I need to get a learner’s permit?
Learner permit applicants must meet the requirements of the New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission 6 Point ID Verification system to obtain a permit for driving. To do so, first-time drivers must present the following documents:
  • One primary proof of identity
  • One secondary proof of identity
  • Proof of valid Social Security Number
  • Proof of address

For more information regarding the selection of documents and satisfying the requirements, visit the MVC website. If you are 16 years old, you must also present proof of enrollment in drivers ed classes and a signed letter of consent from your parent or guardian.

For more information: Learner’s Permits for Beginner Drivers in New Jersey

What documents do I need to get a motorcycle license?
To obtain a New Jersey motorcycle permit or motorcycle endorsement on your NJ driving license you need to visit a NJ DMV near you and present documents that satisfy the requirements of the New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission 6 Point ID Verification program, which include:
  • One primary proof of identity
  • One secondary proof of identity
  • Proof of valid Social Security Number
  • Proof of address

For more help regarding the selection of documents and satisfying the requirements, visit the MVC website.

Additionally, applicants will be required to complete a motorcycle permit application form, obtainable at New Jersey MVC offices. Drivers under 18 years old must present a signed letter of consent from a parent or legal guardian.

For more information: How to Apply for a Motorcycle License in New Jersey

What exams do I need to pass to get a motorcycle license?
To obtain a NJ motorcycle drivers license, applicants must pass the following tests:
  • Vision test
  • Written knowledge test
  • Motorcycle road test

Keep in mind that if you successfully complete a Basic Rider Course, you will not have to take the MVC driving exam. Make sure to schedule the exam in advance, considering not all New Jersey MVC locations offer this service.

For more information: How to Apply for a Motorcycle License in New Jersey

What happens to my commercial driver license if I am convicted of a DUI?
All New Jersey CDL holders convicted of driving under the influence must notify their employers within thirty days of receiving the citation. DUI/DWI penalties are stricter for CDL holders than for regular drivers, especially for commercial drivers who transport hazardous material. CMV operators convicted of driving while intoxicated for the first time face a drivers license suspension for one year, while a second offence will result in a lifetime ban on your CDL.

For more information: New Jersey Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) Application

What is an ID card?
A New Jersey identification card is a legal document that is mainly used by individuals who do not drive but wish to carry an identification document on their person. This is essential as this document can be used for a number of purposes, including to enter any government building or to present as identification when traveling.

For more information: How to Apply for a New Jersey Identification Card

What is the passing score for a written test?
The written knowledge test required to obtain a New Jersey student learners permit or examination permit, consists of 50 questions and drivers need to successfully complete at least 80 percent to pass the exam.

The written drivers test covers traffic laws, rules and regulations. To prepare for the test, study the NJ Driver Manual as all the questions are based on information provided in the manual. Drivers can take the written drivers exams at NJ DMV offices.

For more information: Learner’s Permits for Beginner Drivers in New Jersey

What test do I need to take for my learners permit?
In order to get a New Jersey student learners permit or examination permit, you must pass the following tests:
  • Vision test
  • Written knowledge test

After holding your student learners permit or examination permit for at least six months, drivers are required to pass a road test in order to get a probationary drivers license.

When taking the DMV drivers test, make sure you are accompanied by a licensed driver and present forms of ID as required under the 6 Point ID Verification system. You must also provide a fully registered vehicle with current inspection sticker and insurance card to use when taking the drivers exam.

For more information: Learner’s Permits for Beginner Drivers in New Jersey

What tests do I have to take to obtain a CDL?
To get a CDL in New Jersey, applicants must pass a written knowledge exam and a CDL skills test.

The written drivers test is carried out in NJ DMV offices and contains 50 questions. Applicants must answer 80 percent of the questions correctly in order to pass the test. If you fail the exam, you have to wait for seven days before re-taking it. After successfully completing the DMV drivers test, your commercial permit will be validated and you will have at least ten days of supervised behind-the-wheel supervised driving practice before taking the road test.

The CDL driving exam consists of three parts: pre-trip, basic skills and road skills. To take the skills test you must provide a vehicle with valid current inspection sticker, registration and insurance card and a valid examination permit. If you fail the test, you must wait a minimum of two weeks before re-taking it. Make sure to study the New Jersey CDL manual to ensure that you pass the DMV drivers exam on the first try.

For more information: New Jersey Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) Application

When does my ID card expire?
A New Jersey identification card is valid for four years. Residents can renew an expired ID card either in person or by mail, if temporarily residing out of state.

If you are eligible to renew by mail, the NJ MVC will send you a “Skip the Trip” package, which outlines all the requirements you must meet. If not, you need to make an in-person visit at your local NJ DMV and provide documents that satisfy the 6 Point ID verification requirements. You must also pay $24 renewal fee.

For more information: How to Apply for a New Jersey Identification Card

Where can I obtain an ID card?
Residents can obtain a New Jersey ID card in person at any NJ Motor Vehicle Commission Office across the state.

To get an NJ identification card, follow these steps:

  1. Visit a local NJ DMV location
  2. Provide proof of identity
  3. Submit a completed Application for Driver’s License (Form BA-208)
  4. Pay the $11 identification card replacement fee

At this time, NJ residents cannot apply for an ID card by mail or via an online service.

For more information: How to Apply for a New Jersey Identification Card

Who can sign for my permit or license if I am under 18?
If you are a NJ teen driver, you can either get a special learners permit or examination permit before moving on to a probationary drivers license.

When applying for a student learners permit, you must be accompanied by a licensed drivers ed instructor, as well as submit a letter of consent signed by a parent or legal guardian.

Drivers applying for an examination permit or a probationary drivers license are not required to get consent from a parent/guardian.

For more information: Learner’s Permits for Beginner Drivers in New Jersey