Updated for 2026

New Jersey NJ MVC (New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission)

Comprehensive study guide for the 2026 driver's knowledge exam. Everything you need to know about laws, fees, and requirements.

Total Questions

Passing Score

Standard Fee

$10 (Permit) + $4 (Decals)

Testing System

computer-based touchscreen

Critical Failure Factors

A primary reason for failure in New Jersey is the confusion surrounding the specific restrictions of the Graduated Driver License (GDL) program, particularly the passenger limits and the mandatory use of red decals, as well as the unique rules for making turns via 'Jughandles'.

Legal Statutes & Driving Codes

New Jersey enforces one of the most comprehensive Graduated Driver License (GDL) programs in the country, designed to slowly introduce new drivers to the road. This system is divided into tracks like the 'Early Bird Road' (for 16-year-olds) and the 'Young Adult Road'. A distinctive and strictly enforced regulation under this system is 'Kyleigh's Law'. This law mandates that all drivers under age 21 who hold a Special Learner's Permit, Examination Permit, or Probationary License must display two visible, red reflective decals on their vehicle's license plates—one on the top left corner of the front plate and one on the rear. Failure to display these decals results in a $100 fine. Regarding driving hours, GDL holders (under 21) are strictly prohibited from driving between 11:01 PM and 5:00 AM. Passenger restrictions are also tight: a probationary driver may only transport dependents plus one additional person, unless accompanied by a parent or guardian. New Jersey also enforces a strict 'Hands-Free' law; however, for GDL holders, the use of ANY electronic device, including hands-free Bluetooth systems, is completely illegal. Another critical safety law is the 'Move Over Law', which requires drivers approaching stationary emergency vehicles, tow trucks, or highway maintenance vehicles with flashing lights to change lanes into a lane not adjacent to the authorized vehicle. If a lane change is impossible or unsafe, the driver must reduce speed significantly below the posted limit. Furthermore, New Jersey law stipulates that headlights must be used not only 30 minutes after sunset and 30 minutes before sunrise but also whenever visibility is 500 feet or less and, crucially, whenever windshield wipers are in use due to rain, snow, or mist. Finally, regarding school buses: you must stop at least 25 feet away from a school bus that has its flashing red lights on. The only exception is if you are on the other side of a divided highway with a raised median; in that specific case, you must slow down to 10 mph.

Statistical Realities

New Jersey is the most densely populated state in the U.S., which creates a unique and often aggressive driving environment that requires specific knowledge. One of the most famous (and confusing for outsiders) features of New Jersey roads is the 'Jughandle'. On many major highways and local roads, left turns from the left lane are prohibited to prevent traffic buildup. Instead, drivers must exit from the right lane via a ramp that curves around (like a jug's handle) to cross the intersection perpendicularly. Knowing how to navigate these is essential for the test and real-life driving. Another mandatory component of the licensing process is 'Nikhil's Law'. Enacted in memory of a victim of a traffic stop accident, this law requires every driver license applicant to take the 'Safety Pledge' before the test begins. By taking this pledge, you agree to stop completely at stop signs, stay alert, talk safe (hands-free), and plan ahead. Financially, New Jersey imposes an 'Insurance Surcharge' system. If you accumulate 6 or more points on your license within 3 years, you are subject to a surcharge of $150 for the first 6 points and $25 for each additional point, paid annually for three years. This is separate from any court fines. However, the state rewards safe driving: up to 3 points are subtracted from your total for every year you go without a violation or suspension, though your point total can never go below zero. When taking the test, remember the ID requirements: the '6 Points of ID' system is rigid. A birth certificate counts as 4 points, but you must also have a secondary document and proof of address. The test itself consists of 50 questions, and you must answer 40 correctly (80%) to pass. While many states allow you to slide on parallel parking, it is a mandatory part of the NJ road test, and hitting the flags or curb often results in an instant fail.