How To Get A New Jersey Driver’s License

In this article, you will learn what you need to obtain your New Jersey driver’s license, commercial driver’s license, and motorcycle license. Continue reading to learn how to obtain your valid New Jersey driver’s license.

Types of New Jersey Driver’s Licenses

In the state of New Jersey, there is more than one type of driver’s license. Here’s what you need to know about these New Jersey driver’s licenses.

The New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission (NJ MVC) issues the following types of driver’s licenses:

• Class D – this is a standard New Jersey driver’s license and is issued to non-commercial drivers who are at least 18 years old.
• Class E – this is a motorcycle license that can be issued as a separate license or driver’s license endorsement.
• Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) – this driver’s license is issued for individuals who wish to operate a commercial vehicle under strict requirements and regulations
• Permits and Restricted Licenses – issued to teen drivers through the Graduated Driver’s License (GDL) program

New Jersey Driver’s License Requirements

If you are younger than 21 years old, you are required to satisfy the requirements of the GDL young adult road process. You will also need to complete the following steps to obtain your first new driver’s license:

• Examination permit
• Probationary driver’s license (eligible after obtaining an examination permit for 3 months)
• Driver’s license (eligible after obtaining a probationary NJ license for 1 year)

New Jersey Examination Permit

The first step you will take to obtaining your valid New Jersey driver’s license is to get your NJ examination permit.

To apply, visit your local New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission (NJ MVC) and:

• Complete and pass the NJ written permit test and vision screening
• Complete an Auto Permit Application (Form BA-412 D) You can only get this form at the NJ MVC.
• Submit 6-point ID requirement, such as your valid passport or certified birth certificate
• Adoption or citizenship papers
• Pay the $10 examination permit fee
• Have your permit validated for practice driving
• Schedule your road test at least 6 months after validation if you’re under 21 years old

Examination Permit Restrictions and Driving Practice

With a New Jersey examination permit, you are required to:

• Be accompanied by a licensed driver who is at least 21 years old and has a minimum of 3 years of driving experience
• NOT use any electronic device while driving, including cell phones
• Wear your seat belt at ALL times
• Display a reflectorized decal on each vehicle license plate (decals are $4 and available at the NJ MVA).
• You are NOT permitted to drive from 11:01 PM and 5 AM (some religious or employment exemptions apply)

Before you can obtain your NJ probationary driver’s license, you need to practice supervised driving for at least 3 months.

Are You Required to Apply for an NJ Driver’s License?

Before you make plans to visit your local NJ MVC branch, you need to know whether you are required to apply for a new NJ driver’s license.

You must obtain a New Jersey driver’s license if:

• You are a current resident of New Jersey who has never obtained a driver’s license
• You are a new resident of NJ and want to apply for a New Jersey driver’s license or transfer an out-of-state driver’s license
• You intend to operate any of the non-commercial Class D or Class E vehicles stated above
• You have legal presence in New Jersey and U.S. (you do not have to have an NJ driver’s license if you possess a diplomatic driver’s license that has been issued by the U.S. Department of State.

You are not required to obtain an NJ driver’s license if:

• At least 18 years old and visiting New Jersey with an out-of-state driver’s license
• You are an active military member or dependent that is stationed in New Jersey (as long as you have a valid out-of-state driver’s license, and you have not established residency in NJ)
• You operate farm vehicles off NJ public highways
• You only operate registered off-highway vehicles and snowmobiles without accessing public roads (other than crossing the roads)

Applying for Your New Jersey Driver’s License

As a New Jersey resident, before you can obtain your full NJ driver’s license, you need to obtain your probationary driver’s license.

NJ Probationary License

You are permitted to apply for your NJ probationary driver’s license once you have held your examination permit for at least 3 months.

To apply, you need to visit your local NJ MVC agency and:

• Complete an Auto License Application (Form BA-208), which is ONLY available at an NJ MVC branch
• Provide documentation to meet the 6-point ID requirement
• Pass the NJ MVC driving test
• Pay the probationary license fee of $10

With your NJ provisional license, you are permitted to drive unsupervised, however, you must:

• NOT use any hand-held electronic devices (cell phones) while driving
• ONLY transport passengers who are parents, legal guardians, or dependents (only 1 passenger is allowed unless a parent or guardian is present)
• Wear your seat belt at all times
• Display a reflectorized decal on each vehicle license plate (the decals are $4 and available an NJ MVC branch)
• Not operate a motor vehicle between 11:01 PM and 5 AM (some religious or employment exemptions apply)

Full NJ Driver’s License

You can apply for your full NJ driver’s license once you’ve held your probationary driver’s license for at least 1 year and have practiced unsupervised driving.

To apply for your new NJ driver’s license, you need to visit your local New Jersey MVC office and:

• Provide your provisional license
• Provide documents to meet the 6-point ID requirement
• Pay the pro-rated upgraded fee
• Complete the Auto License Application (Form BA-208), which is only available at an NJ MVC branch)
• Have your photo taken

New Jersey GDL Program and Restrictions

If you are younger than 18 years old and a new resident of New Jersey, you are not permitted to transfer your out-of-state driver’s license or learner’s permit.

If you are younger than 21 years old, you must complete the New Jersey MVC Graduated Driver’s License (GDL) program. The GDL program is divided into the following steps and restrictions:

Special student learner’s permit, which requires:

• Completion of a Driver’s Education course with a certified driving instructor
• A reflectorized license plate decal that must be displayed when you are operating a motor vehicle
• You must obtain a validated NJ driving permit to begin supervised driving
• Supervised driving at all times with a licensed adult who is at least 21 years old and has been driving for at least 3 years
• Driving is permitted between the hours of 11:01 PM and 5 AM
• Your only passengers should be parents, legal guardians, or dependents
• Parent or guardian supervision is required if you have more than 1 passenger

Examination permit, which requires:

• A reflectorized vehicle license plate decal when you’re operating a motor vehicle
• Supervised driving at ALL times with a licensed adult who is at least 21 years old and has been driving for at least 3 years
• You are not permitted to operate a motor vehicle between the hours of 11:01 PM and 5 AM
• Your ONLY passengers should be your parents, legal guardians, or dependents
• Parent or guardian supervision is required if you will be traveling with more than 1 passenger

Probationary Driver’s License, requires:

• A reflectorized vehicle license plate decal to display when you are operating a motor vehicle
• No driving between the hours of 11:01 PM and 5 AM (unless you have a written statement for religious or employment reasons)
• Your ONLY passengers should be your parents, legal guardians, or dependents
• Parent or guardian supervision is required if you have more than 1 passenger

Full, Unrestricted NJ Driver’s License:

• Depending on your age, you might need to apply for your student learner’s permit or examination permit. You are not required to obtain both. You must visit your local NJ MVC office to obtain a reflectorized vehicle license plate decal for $4.

New Jersey Age Requirements

The minimum age in New Jersey to start each step of the NJ MVC GDL program are as follows:

• Student learner’s permit: 16 years old
• Examination permit: 17 years old
• Probationary driver’s license: 17 years old
• Unrestricted driver’s license: 18 years old

Be advised that if you are younger than 18 years old and have recently moved to New Jersey, you are not permitted to transfer your out-of-state driver’s license or learner’s permit. You must complete each step of the New Jersey MVC GDL program to receive an NJ driver’s license.

Acceptable Identification Documents in New Jersey

In New Jersey, obtaining permits and licenses require you to provide different forms of identification that amount of a specific number of points, known as the 6-points of ID. The state of New Jersey requires 6 points of ID and different proofs of identification to ensure you are who you say you are.

In order to apply for a permit or New Jersey driver’s license you must provide ach of the following types of identification:

Primary Documentation

The first type of identification you must present at your local NJ MVC is a primary document. Primary documentation is worth 4 points on the 6-point system. You are required to provide the original documentation. Photocopies are NOT accepted.

Primary documentation is accepted for the NJ 6-points of ID, including:

• U.S.-issued birth certificate
• U.S.-issued current passport
• U.S.-issued expired passport (less than 3 years expired)
• Non-U.S. passport (customs/immigration verified)
• U.S. Certificate of Citizenship
• Current NJ driver’s license (NJ ONLY)
• U.S.-issued adoption papers
• Current digital boating license (NJ ONLY)
• Current non-driver ID (NJ ONLY)
•  Certificate of Naturalization
• Valid U.S. active-duty military photo ID
• Refugee travel documentation

Be advised that the New Jersey Department of Motor Vehicles (NJ DMV) is no longer accepting Puerto Rican birth certificates that are dated prior to 2010. Residents of NJ who were born in Puerto Rico can apply for an updated certificate by contacting the Puerto Rican government.

When you’re applying for an NJ license, permit, or ID card, you must also present one secondary document, which can be worth 1, 2, or 3 points. You can only use up to (2) 1-point documents.

3-Point Documentation

• Marriage certificate (or equivalent)
• Divorce certificate
• Employment authorization photo card
• Military retiree photo card (U.S.)
• Name-change court order (signed by clerk or judge)

2-Point Documentation

• Temporary registration card
• Government employee photo ID
• Government employee driving license
• College/school photo ID (including transcript)
• Military discharge documents (U.S.)
• Pilot license (F.A.A.)

1-Point Documentation

• State professional license
• Out-of-state driving license
• Social security card
• Social services ID (NJ ONLY)
• Health insurance card
• College diploma
• High school diploma
• General Education Development Test transcript
• Bank statement
• ATM card (Signed)
• Property tax statement (NJ-issued)
• Veterans Affairs photo ID card

Address

In addition to providing primary and secondary documentation, you must also provide documents that do not count towards the NJ 6-points of ID. You will need proof of address, which can be a bank statement, bill, or transcript, as long as it clearly displays your full name and current address. Proof of address/residency is to confirm your place of residence and match the proof you provide to your primary and secondary documentation.

SSN/ITIN

The New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission will need to have either your social security number or your Individual Taxpayer Identification Number. Your number will be used in the relevant database and matched with your name and date of birth, which needs to be present on your proof of address as well as your primary and secondary documents.

Obtaining a New Jersey Driver’s License Under the Age of 18 Years Old

If you are under the age of 18, you are required to have your parent’s consent to apply for an NJ learner’s permit. New Jersey permits are available to individuals who are at least 16 years old.

To apply for an NJ permit, you must enroll in an NJ MVC license driving school. Your driving instructor must purchase the permit for you after you have gathered the required documentation and visit a motor vehicle agency.

You will be required to complete a New Jersey vision test and knowledge exam in addition to completing 6 hours of behind-the-wheel training. Once your permit is validated, you must start supervised driving for at least 6 months. Once you complete this step, you can apply for an NJ probational driver’s license.

To apply for your New Jersey probational driver’s license, you will need:

• 6 months of behind-the-wheel driving experience
• To schedule and pass the NJ road test (in-car)
• To complete the application form that is available at the NJ MVC

Once you’ve been driving with your NJ provisional license for at least 1 year, you can apply for a standard New Jersey driver’s license by:

• Being at least 18 years old
• Complete an application form
• Visit any NJ MVC branch

The New Jersey Written Exam, Road Test, and Vision Screening

The New Jersey Written Exam

The NJ written exam consists of 50 total questions. You must answer 40 of these questions correctly to pass this written exam with a minimum passing score of 80%. The minimum age to apply for the New Jersey written exam is 16.

The New Jersey Road Test

The NJ road test will be performed in a vehicle that you provide. The vehicle must be up-to-date on its inspection and adhere to other New Jersey vehicle laws. During this road test, you will be graded on how well and how safely you can operate a motor vehicle. You will be tested on turning, parking, proper use of turn signals, following the road signs, and other NJ traffic laws.

The New Jersey Vision Screening

In the state of New Jersey, drivers are required to obtain a visual acuity of at least 20/50 in one eye with or without corrective lenses. Every licensed driver in this state must have a vision screening performed every 10 years unless otherwise specified.

The NJ vision screening can be completed as part of a routine physical or eye exam. The results of this screening will be submitted to the NJ MVC via a web-based application. Your driver record will be updated according to the results of your vision screening. NJ drivers who do not meet the vision standard will have their screening results reviewed by the MVC’s Medical Review Panel to determine other options.

Non-Commercial Class B Driver’s Licenses in New Jersey

In New Jersey a Class B driver’s license is required if you are operating a vehicle that is not a traditional vehicle, such as a not-for-hire motor home, RVs, and travel trailers.

If you need to apply for a non-commercial NJ Class B driver’s license, you will follow the same steps you would if you were applying for a standard Class D NJ driver’s license with a few different exceptions.

Non-Commercial Trucks and SUVs in New Jersey

In New Jersey, a non-commercial truck is a vehicle designed primarily for the transportation of property but not used for the commercial transportation of wares, goods, merchandise, and/or used for hire. The most common non-commercial truck today is an SUV.

Vehicles that qualify as non-commercial trucks in New Jersey include:

• Pick-up trucks
• Vans
• SUVs
• El-Camino – Chevrolet
• Ranchero – Ford
• Brat – Subaru

The following vehicles do not qualify as non-commercial trucks or SUVs:

• Wagon
• Two door (coupes)
• Convertible
• Four door (sedans)
• Limousine

Rules and Regulations

If you are registering your vehicle as a non-commercial truck, it can’t have the following on its exterior:

• Signs
• Advertising
• Names
• Addresses
• Lettering

The only exception in this situation would be the trademarks and labels of the vehicle manufacturer.

During the vehicle registration process, you must confirm that your vehicle will only be used for personal use by answering the question located on the back of the application (Form BA-49), which is only available at NJ MVC branches.

Be advised that you receive your regular passenger vehicle plates when you register your non-commercial truck.

Married, Divorced, or Name Change?

You may be required to provide name change documentation in New Jersey if you’re applying for a new NJ driver’s license or ID card. Keep in mind that you may also be required to submit a name document(s), such as a marriage license, to be issued a REAL ID-compliant New Jersey driver’s license or ID card in your true full name.

If the name on your identification document(s) is different from the name you provided on your application, you must submit a document that established your true full name. The following are examples of documentation you can use to prove your full true name:

• Adoption documentation that contains the legal names as a result of the adoption
• A marriage certificate
• A certificate, declaration, or registration document that proves the formation of a domestic partnership
• A name change document that contains the legal name of both before and after the name change
• A dissolution of marriage/domestic partnership document that contains the legal name as a result of a court action

Does the REAL ID Act Impact New Jersey Residents?

The REAL ID Act will take effect in New Jersey on May 3, 2023. Residents of New Jersey are not required to obtain a REAL ID starting May 3, 2023. However, a REAL IDE will be required for different situations. If you choose not to obtain a REAL New Jersey ID, you will be required to use a valid U.S. passport or another federally approved form of identification. You will still be able to use your standard New Jersey driver’s license to operate a motor vehicle.

Is Obtaining a REAL ID Mandatory in New Jersey?

Getting a REAL ID is NOT mandatory in the state of New Jersey, but this kind of ID is good to have when you:

• Need to pass TSA checkpoints at airport terminals nationwide
• Visit a secure federal business
• Visit a military base

You are not required to present a REAL-ID compliant NJ driver’s license or ID card to:

• Drive
• Vote
• Visit a federal facility that does not require an ID (ex. post office)
• Apply to receive federal benefits (Social Security Administration (SSA), Veteran’s Affairs, and similar organizations)
• Enter a hospital or receive life-saving services

How Do You Prepare to Apply for a REAL ID Card in New Jersey?

To prepare to apply for an NJ REAL ID, you need to gather the proper documentation. In New Jersey, you will need:

• 2 proofs of residency
• 1 proof of your social security number
• 6 points of ID

Click here to learn more about the required documentation to obtain a new Jersey REAL ID.

Applying for a Commercial New Jersey Driver’s License

There are three levels of commercial driver’s licenses in the state of New Jersey, which are Class A, Class B, and Class C commercial driver’s licenses.

Commercial License Classes

Class A – a Class A commercial driver’s license is issued to drivers who operate a truck or trailer that has a GCWR of 26,001 lbs. or more and the GCWR of the towed vehicle exceeds 10,000 lbs. Any driver that obtains a Class A license is eligible to operate all vehicles in Class B, C, and D.

Class B – a Class B commercial driver’s license is issued to drivers who operate any truck or trailer that exceeds 26,001 lbs. or more, and the GCWR of the towed vehicle is less than 10,000 lbs. or is able to transport 16 or more passengers. Drivers who obtain a Class B license are eligible to operate all vehicles that are categorized as Class C and Class D.

Class C – a Class C commercial driver’s license is issued to drivers who operate any vehicle with a GCWR that is less than 26,001 lbs., placarded to transport hazardous materials or any bus designed to carry 16 or more passengers, including all school vehicles that are designed to carry 15 or fewer passengers, and any other vehicle for hire designed to carry 8 to 15 passengers.

Obtaining Your CDL in New Jersey

To obtain your CDL in the state of New Jersey, you are required to meet the following qualifications:

• Be a U.S. citizen or a non-U.S. citizen with lawful permanent resident status
• Be at least 18 years old
• Have a standard Class D New Jersey driver’s license
• Maintain at least 20/40 vision in each eye with or without glasses
• Be able to recognize green, red, and amber colors
• Be physically fit

All CLP/CDL drivers are required to complete the CDL Holder Self-Certification document (Form CDSC-1), and if applicable, submit a valid Medical Examiner Certificate. Keep in mind that the medical or background check results can lead to a commercial driver’s license disqualification. If you are disqualified, there is no refund of the CLP fee. If you are a school bus driver 70 years of age or older or interested in becoming a school bus driver, check the school bus driver requirements here.

CDL Application Process in New Jersey

The CDL application process in New Jersey is as follows:

• Study the NJ CDL manual
• Receive your examination test receipt by:
  • Scheduling an appointment for an NJ CDL permit
  • Completing the Application for Commercial Driver’s License
  • Take your 6 points of ID (including your social security card, proof of address, and proof of legal presence in the U.S.
  • Payment of $125 for the NJ commercial examination test receipt fee, which is non-refundable (can be paid by check, credit card, money order, or cash)
• Complete and pass the NJ CDL knowledge test
  • If you are not prepared to complete the CDL knowledge test at the time you receive your Examination Test Receipt, you are required to make an appointment to take the test. As of 2/7/2022, if you are applying for a HAZMAT endorsement, you are required to complete the required Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) from a provider that is listed on the FMCSA’s Training Provider Registry before taking your knowledge test.
    • Once you pass your NJ CDL knowledge test, you will be issued your Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP). During this time, you will schedule your skills test.

• Complete your CDL skills test
  • As of 2/7/2022, before you take your skills test for your CDL or any endorsement, you are required to complete Entry-Level Driver Training (ELDT) from a provider that is listed on the FMCSA’s Training Provider Registry.
    • You are required to schedule an appointment to take your skills test. Unless waived, CLP holders must wait at least 14 days before taking the skills test. Once you pass your skills test, you will be issued your CDL.

The cost of a 4-year NJ CDL is $42 and $2 for each endorsement. Your first CDL will be prorated to expire with any current basic New Jersey driver’s license.

NJ CDL Restrictions

NJ CDL applicants who are under 21 years old:

• Is not permitted to operate in intrastate commerce (within NJ only) and
• Must select commerce category 3 or 4 on the CDL Holder Self-Certification form and
• May not receive a HAZMAT (HME) endorsement and
• May not receive a passenger endorsement

Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP) Restrictions

The New Jersey Commercial Learner’s Permit (CLP) restrictions are as follows:

• K – Restriction for intrastate only
• L – Restriction for vehicles with no air brakes
• P – No passenger restriction on CLP (if CLP has a P endorsement)
• V – Restriction for medical variance (the driver is required to also have the hard copy variance issued by Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration)
• X – No cargo in tank restriction (if CLP has an N endorsement)

Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) Restrictions

The New Jersey Commercial Driver’s License restrictions are as follows:

• E – No manual transmission equipped CMV (if you take the test in a CMV with an automatic transmission, you will obtain the E restriction and are prohibited from operating a CMV with a manual transmission).
• K – Intrastate only
• O – No tractor trailer CMV
• Q – 15 passengers or less
• T – Probationary driver (supervising driving required) – night and passenger restrictions if under 21.
• V – Medical variance
• Z – No full air brake equipped CMV

Exemptions

The following are not required to obtain a CDL for their purposes:

• Taxi drivers (carrying less than 7 passengers) and ride-sharing van drivers
• Firefighters
• Operators of rescue or first-aid squad vehicles
• Farmers hauling their own products and equipment within 150 miles of their farms
• Non-civilian operators of military equipment
• Operators of construction equipment not designed for operation on public roads
• Operators of recreational vehicles (provided the vehicle is being operated only for personal use)

New Jersey CDL Renewal

In New Jersey, a CDL is required to be renewed in person. You need to schedule your renewal appointment online. Make sure you bring your 6 points of ID, including your proof of address, social security card, and proof of your legal presence in the U.S.

A $42 fee for a CDL must be paid at the agency by credit/debit card, cash, check, or money order that is made payable to the NJ MVC. An additional fee is required for added endorsements or classes. If applicable, a CDL Holder Self-Certification form and Medical Examiner’s Certificate may be required.

If your CLP documentation is lost or stolen, these documents must be replaced by ordering duplicate documentation online. You must visit an NJ licensing center to obtain replacement CLP documents. No appointment is necessary. Make sure you bring 6 points of ID for identity verification and $3 for the duplicate examination test receipt, or $11 fee for a duplicate CLP.

Federal Self-Certification Requirements

You are required to self-certify your type of vehicle operating with the NJ MVC. You must self-certify one of the following driving categories:

• Non-excepted interstate
• Expected interstate
• Non-excepted intrastate
• Excepted intrastate

Applying for a New Jersey Motorcycle License

In the state of New Jersey, a motorcycle is any vehicle, such as a bicycle, motorbike, or tricycle that has an attached motor. All residents in this state who are operating a motorcycle are required to have a motorcycle endorsement on their existing driver’s license or a separate motorcycle license. All motorcycles in the state of New Jersey are required to be titled, insured, and registered.

Trikes (3-Wheel Motorcycles)

Individuals who wish to operate a trike are required to apply for a motorcycle endorsement. A restriction will be placed on their driver’s license that only allows the operation of a 3-wheel motorcycle. Trikes are required to be registered, titled, and insured.

Low-speed Motorcycles

Low-speed motorcycles are less than 50 cubic centimeters (CC) or have a 1.5 brake horsepower motor or less with a maximum speed that does not exceed 35 mph on a flat surface. Low-speed motorcycles are not permitted to be driven on any NJ toll road and have limited travel access to highways or public roads with a posted speed limit that exceeds 35 mph. These kinds of motorcycles require a title and they must be registered and insured. Individuals who obtain a standard NJ driver’s license can operate a low-speed motorcycle without an endorsement or separate motorcycle license.

Motorcycle Endorsement

There are two different ways you can add a motorcycle endorsement to your New Jersey driver’s license:

• Enroll in the Basic Rider Course (BRC)
• Apply without completing the Basic Rider Course

Completion of the Basic Rider Course is required for individuals who are under the age of 18.

Enrolling in the Basic Rider Course (BRC)

Once you enroll in the Basic Rider Course, you need to:

• Complete the Basic Rider Course (a permit is NOT required)
  • Register with an approved motorcycle training provider
  • Attend approximately 5 hours of classroom instruction and 10 hours of riding exercises
  • Upon graduating, your training provider will provide you with a stamped waiver form and course completion card
• Obtain a motorcycle endorsement
  • Before operating a motorcycle, you need to first add the endorsement to your New Jersey driver’s license
  • Once you successfully complete a 3-wheel BRC, you will be permitted to obtain a motorcycle endorsement that carries a restriction for a 3-wheel motorcycle ONLY
  • You must take the course completion documentation and 6 points of ID verification to an NJ driver testing center to apply for an NJ motorcycle permit (applicants are required to be at least 17 years old. A parent or legal guardian must consent for the motorcycle permit for individuals who are under 18 years old.
  • Complete and pass the NJ vision test
  • Pay the required fees using a credit card, debit card, cash, check, or money order

Apply without completing the Basic Rider Course (BRC)

• Obtain a motorcycle examination permit
  • Take 6 points of ID verification to a motor vehicle agency to apply for a motorcycle permit
  • Complete and pass the NJ knowledge and vision tests
• Practice Ride
  • The mandatory minimum for practice riding is 20 days
  • All motorcycle permit riding restrictions must be observed
  • Be advised of the following that is prohibited: operating a motorcycle from one-half hour after sunset to one-half hour before sunrise, carrying passengers and riding on any state toll road or limited-access highway
• Complete the motorcycle road test
  • Schedule a motorcycle road test appointment
  • Take your motorcycle or trike, helmet, and eye protection (your motorcycle must be registered and insured)
  • Once you pass the road test, on a trike, you will receive a motorcycle endorsement that carries a restriction for a 3-wheel motorcycle ONLY
• Obtain a motorcycle endorsement
  • Pay the required fees upon successful completion of the NJ road test. The NJ MVC accepts debit cards, credit cards, cash, checks, and money orders.

License

You can obtain a NJ motorcycle license without possessing an NJ driver’s license by enrolling in the Basic Rider Course (BRC), which is required for individuals who are under 18 years old. You can also apply without completing a BRC. All applicants that do not possess an NJ driver’s license, are required to first obtain an NJ motorcycle permit. Here are the steps you need to take.

• Obtain an NJ motorcycle examination permit
  • Take 6 points of ID verification to an MVC agency to apply for a motorcycle permit
  • Applicants must be at least 17 years old (parent or legal guardian consent is required for applicants who are under age 18
  • Complete and pass the NJ knowledge and vision tests
• Enroll in the Basic Rider Course (BRC)
  • Complete the practice ride (if you are under the age of 21, you are required to accrue a mandatory minimum of 6 months of practice riding. If you are over the age of 21, you are required to accrue a mandatory minimum of three months without any suspensions or postponements – this applies to individuals who are getting their NJ license for the first time, known as a GDL.
• Complete the basic rider course
  • Register with an approved motorcycle training provider
  • Attend approximately 5 hours of classroom instruction and 10 hours of riding exercises
  • Upon graduation, the training provider will give you a course completion card
• Take the NJ motorcycle road test
  • Schedule a road test appointment
  • Take your motorcycle or trike, helmet, and eye protection to the testing site (the motorcycle or trike must be registered and insured).
  • Once you complete the 3-wheel BRC, and you pass the road test on a trike, you will obtain a motorcycle endorsement that carries a restriction for a 3-wheel motorcycle ONLY
• Obtain a Probationary Motorcycle License (Class E)
  • Pay all applicable fees upon the successful completion of the road test. The NJ MVC accepts debit cards, credit card, cash, checks, and money orders.

You must observe the probationary riding privileges, including a mandatory minimum of one-year probationary riding and all Graduated Driver’s License (GDL) restrictions. To obtain an unrestricted motorcycle license in New Jersey, you are required to be at least 18 years old and complete one year of probationary riding. All necessary fees must be paid in full.

Applying for a Motorcycle License without Completing the Basic Rider Course

You will follow the steps outlined to obtain a motorcycle license in New Jersey with the exception of completing the BRC.

As of January 1, 2013, individuals who take the road test at an NJ MVC branch on a bike that is 231CC or less is restricted to ONLY riding a 500CC or less motorcycle (an M endorsement or Class E motorcycle-only license with restriction.

If you take the road test on a bike that is over 231CC, there will not be a restriction with the M endorsement or motorcycle-only license. Any individual who successfully completes a Motorcycle Safety Education Program (MSEP) course is exempt from the bike size requirement and will not be restricted. Restricted riders that can only operate a bike that is 500CC or less will obtain a “Restriction 5” that will be noted on their license, and they will be required to carry an NJ MVC-issued restriction card while operating the motorcycle.

Titling and Registering a Motorcycle in New Jersey

All certified motorcycles in the state of New Jersey are required to be titled and registered in the state and meet the minimum safety standards that are outlined by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).

To register or title your motorcycle in New Jersey, you need to take the following documents to an NJ Motor Vehicle Agency (MVA):

• 6 Points of ID
• Proof of a valid NJ motorcycle insurance policy
• The motorcycle title, Manufacturer’s Certificate of Origin (MSO or MCO) or Registration and a notarized bill of sale from the previous owner with a vehicle description and sales price (required for non-titled states ONLY) – If you can’t meet this requirement, you are required to follow the NJ MVC’s procedures for vehicles obtained without proper evidence of ownership. You can download the New Jersey Improper Evidence of Ownership packet here, or call (609) 292-6500 ext. 5064 for the necessary forms.
• Complete the Universal Title Application (Form OS/SS-UTA)
• Complete a Vehicle Registration Application (Form BA-49)
• Name and address of lien holder (if applicable) – all lien holders in NJ are required to have an Entity Identification Number (EIN)
• Pay the necessary NJ title and registration fees

The NJ MVC accepts debit cards, credit cards, checks, cash, and money orders.

Transferring an Out-of-State Motorcycle License to New Jersey

As a new resident of New Jersey, you must transfer your out-of-state motorcycle license to the state of New Jersey. To transfer your motorcycle license to New Jersey, you need to:

• Visit your local NJ MVC office within 60 days of moving to New Jersey
• Surrender your out-of-state motorcycle license
• Complete the application and provide proof of your identity, residency, and legal presence
• Pay the required application fees
• Pass the NJ eye exam, and motorcycle written exam

New Jersey MVC Locations

There are multiple New Jersey MVC locations where you can take care of your driver’s license, CDL, and motorcycle license tasks.

New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission – Lawrenceville Branch
3200 US Highway 1
Ste 1
Lawrenceville, NJ 08648\
(609) 292-6500
Monday – Friday (8 AM – 4:30 PM)
Saturday (8 AM – 3 PM)
Sunday (Closed)

New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission – Eatontown Branch
109 State Route 36
Eatontown, NJ 07724
(609) 292-6500
Monday – Friday (8 AM – 4:30 PM)
Saturday ( 8 AM – 3 PM)
Sunday (Closed)

New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission – Manahawkin
220 Stafford Park Blvd
Manahawkin, NJ 08050
(888) 486-3339
(Call for business hours)