NJ GDL Rules for Permit and Probationary Drivers
New Jersey's Graduated Driver License (GDL) program phases in driving: a permit at 16 (with a driving course) or 17, at least 6 months of supervised driving, a probationary license no earlier than 17, then a basic license after a year. Drivers under 21 with a permit or probationary license can't drive from 11:01 p.m. to 5 a.m., have passenger limits, can't use any phone, and must display red decals.
Updated October 14, 2026 · Checked against NJ MVC sources · Reviewed by Jason Friedman, founder of DriveSafer
Restrictions at a glance
| Rule | Permit | Probationary license |
|---|---|---|
| Driving hours | No driving 11:01 p.m.–5 a.m. | No driving 11:01 p.m.–5 a.m. |
| Supervision | An adult 21+ with a valid NJ license and 3+ years of experience, in the front seat | None required |
| Passengers | Dependents plus 1 other passenger (special learner permit: parent, guardian or dependents plus 1) | Dependents plus 1 other person, unless a parent or guardian is in the car |
| Phones and devices | None, hand-held or hands-free | None, hand-held or hands-free |
| Seat belts | Driver and every passenger | Driver and every passenger |
| Red decals | Required | Required |
Hour, passenger and decal limits don't apply to permit or probationary drivers who are 21 or older. A GDL violation can bring a $100 fine or a suspension.
The path to a license
| Step | Start at 16 (special learner permit) | Start at 17 (examination permit) |
|---|---|---|
| Permit | Age 16, enrolled in an approved behind-the-wheel course (6 hours with an instructor); pass knowledge and vision tests | Age 17; pass knowledge and vision tests |
| Supervised practice | At least 6 months; 50 hours, 10 at night (permits from Feb 1, 2025) | Same |
| Probationary license | Age 17+, pass the road test | Same |
| Basic license | After 1 year with a probationary license, age 18+ | Same |
Work and religious exemptions
A driver under 21 who must drive during restricted hours for work or religion has to carry a certification on the employer's or religious organization's letterhead, signed by the certifying official with their name, title, address and phone number.
Don't forget the upgrade
After 12 months with a probationary license, drivers must visit an MVC Licensing Center to upgrade to a basic license. Until they do, the probationary restrictions still apply.