New Jersey Driver’s License: 2025 Step-by-Step Guide
Need a New Jersey Driver’s License? Whether you’re a first-time driver, a new resident, or renewing an existing license, this updated 2025 guide will help you navigate the process with the New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission (NJMVC).
How to Get a New Jersey Driver’s License
Step 1: Choose Your License Type
Most applicants need a Class D license, which allows you to drive passenger vehicles. Other license types include motorcycle endorsements, CDL (commercial), and probationary/learner permits for teens.
Step 2: Complete the 6 Points of ID Verification
To apply for a license or permit, you must bring documents that total 6 points and include:
- At least one primary ID (e.g., U.S. birth certificate or passport)
- At least one secondary ID (e.g., Social Security card, school ID)
- Proof of Social Security number
- Proof of New Jersey address
Step 3: Pass the Required Tests
If applying for a first license, you must:
- Pass a vision test
- Take the written knowledge exam
- Pass the road test (after meeting practice and permit requirements)
Teen Drivers must complete the Graduated Driver License (GDL) program, which includes:
- Learner’s Permit (age 16+ with approved training)
- Probationary License after 6 months of supervised driving
- Basic License (at age 18+, with 1 year of unsupervised driving)
New Residents: Transfer a License to New Jersey
You must transfer your out-of-state license within 60 days of moving to New Jersey (or before your current license expires).
To transfer, bring:
- Your valid out-of-state license
- Documents for the 6 Point ID verification
- Proof of NJ residency and legal presence
- Pass a vision screening
- Written and road tests may be waived (if license is valid and in good standing)
Renewing a New Jersey Driver’s License
New Jersey licenses are valid for 4 years and can be renewed:
- Online at NJMVC.gov
- In person at an NJMVC licensing center
- By mail (if eligible)
You may need to visit in person if:
- You’re changing your license class
- Your photo is outdated
- You are upgrading to a REAL ID
New Jersey REAL ID Requirements
Starting May 7, 2025, you’ll need a REAL ID or passport to board domestic flights or enter federal buildings.
The NJ REAL ID includes a gold star in the top right corner. To get one:
- Visit an NJMVC Licensing Center in person
- Bring required documents for 6 Point ID verification
- Provide two proofs of New Jersey residency
REAL ID is optional for driving but required for federal identification purposes.
New Jersey Driver’s License Fees (2025)
Service | Fee (Approx.) |
---|---|
Basic Driver’s License (4 years) | $24 |
Probationary License | $6 |
Learner’s Permit (Examination) | $10 |
License Renewal | $24 |
REAL ID Upgrade | Included at renewal |
Duplicate License | $11 |
Required Documents Checklist
- Primary ID (passport, birth certificate)
- Secondary ID (SS card, bank statement)
- Proof of NJ address (utility bill, lease)
- Social Security number or exemption form
- Completed license application (online or in office)
NJMVC Services
- First-time driver licensing
- Learner’s permits and probationary licenses
- Out-of-state license transfers
- REAL ID issuance
- Vision, written, and road testing
- Name and address changes
- License renewal and replacements
SEO Keywords
- New Jersey driver’s license application
- NJMVC license renewal 2025
- New Jersey REAL ID documents
- Transfer out-of-state license to NJ
- NJ graduated driver license requirements
- 6 Points of ID NJ DMV
Visit the official NJMVC website for appointments, scheduling, and official updates.
Reviews
There are no reviews yet.