This Step: Get a Learner Permit
Driver's LicenseChecklist
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Take Drivers Education
Complete your drivers education
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Get a Learner Permit
Pass your driver permit written test
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Get Car Insurance Coverage
Get insured to drive
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Practice Driving
Practice your driving skills
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Get a Drivers License
Take and pass your drivers license test!
Badges Earned:
Get a Learner Permit in New Jersey
A) Ace a Few DMV Practice Tests
Take multiple online practice permit tests before you head to a New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission agency office to take your written test. Sample test questions cover topics you’ll find on the actual learner’s license exam (traffic laws, road signs, safe-driving practices and more). Be sure you also review the New Jersey Driver Manual.
B) Gather the Appropriate Documents
You can apply for a student learner’s permit (16 years old) or an examination permit (17 to 21 years old) at a nearby New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission (MVC) office. Be sure you first gather the proper requirements for the permit you are eligible to attain.
Student Learner’s Permit Requirements for 16 Year Olds:
- A primary 4-point ID (civil birth certificate, US Passport, US Department of State birth certificate, US adoption papers, certificate of naturalization or certificate of citizenship)
- Proof of enrollment in a driver training course
- A signed letter with parental or guardian consent
Examination Permit Requirements for 17 to 21 Year Olds:
You can get your examination permit through a licensed driving instructor. Or you can visit the NJ MVC with the following:
- Proper documentation to prove your identity by passing the 6 Point ID Verification process
- A signed letter with parental or guardian consent
C) Take the New Jersey Written Knowledge Test
Look online for a nearby New Jersey MVC branch to take your permit test. If you are 16, you must be accompanied by a licensed driving instructor. All applicants age 16 to 21 must do the following to obtain either a student learner's permit or an examination permit:
- Pass the written knowledge test
- Pass a vision test
Once you pass, the state will issue a permit that MUST be with you any time you drive a car. Both student learner’s permits and examination permits are valid for two years.