What is a probationary license in NJ

New Jersey issues probationary licenses to new drivers who are at least 17 years old. These licenses are subject to certain rules and limitations. Drivers 18 and older can upgrade to a regular driver’s license after 12 months of unsupervised driving.

How Do You Obtain a Probationary License in New Jersey?

Before you can get a license of any kind, you must have obtained a learner’s permit. Once you have, you have two years to complete the following steps:

• Take a knowledge test – Schedule an appointment to take the knowledge test with the New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission (MVC). You will need to bring certain information with you and take a vision test. If you fail the knowledge test, you can take another after seven days.
• Practice driving – Before applying for a license for the first time, you must drive under the supervision of a licensed New Jersey driver for at least three months if you’re 21 or over or at least six months if you’re under 21. Postponements or suspensions will prohibit you from applying when the supervisory period ends.
• Schedule a road test – You should schedule your test as soon as possible since wait times can be long. You must be at least 17 to take the test. However, you can schedule the test well in advance as long as the date is on or after your 17th birthday.
• Attend your appointment – Bring the same forms you brought to your knowledge test. You will also need a valid examination permit, license plate decals if you’re under 21, and a registered vehicle with an up-to-date inspection card and insurance in which to take the test. A New Jersey licensed driver who’s at least 21 years old and has had their license for at least three years must accompany you.
• Take the test – A staff member from the licensing office will accompany you on your road test. If you pass, they’ll endorse your permit so you may get a probationary license. If you fail the first time, you must wait two weeks before retaking the test.
• Get your probationary license – After you pass, you may be able to get your license at the location of your road test. If it’s not available there, you may bring your stamped permit and documents to any Licensing Center. You’ll use your license until you have driven without supervision for 12 months.

Are There Special Rules That Apply to a Probationary License?

Drivers with probationary licenses are subject to certain limitations and restrictions that other drivers are not. If you’re under 21, you must follow these rules:

• Everyone in the vehicle must wear a seatbelt.
• Unless you’re driving with a parent or guardian, you may have only one passenger in the vehicle. If you have children of your own, they do not count towards this total.
• You can’t use hand-held or hands-free electronic devices while driving.
• You must apply special decals to your car on the front and rear license plates.
• You cannot drive between 11:01 p.m. and 5:00 a.m.

If you’re over 21, you must adhere to these rules:

• Everyone in your car must wear a seatbelt.
• You can’t use hands-free or hand-held electronic devices.

Can I Fight a Ticket I Get While on a Probationary License?

Fighting a ticket while on a probation license in New Jersey is challenging. Municipal prosecutors are banned from offering plea agreements eliminating penalty points to anyone holding probationary licenses.

You still have a right to fight a ticket issued to you in error. However, you should never pursue your case alone. A skilled attorney can protect your rights and determine the appropriate legal strategy.

What If I Get Two or More Moving Violations?

If you receive two or more moving violations totaling at least four points, you must enroll in a four-hour Probationary Driver Program (PDP). You are required to pay a $75 fee and pay for the class. The course will reeducate you on the importance of safe driving practices and subtract up to three points from your license upon completion.

Can a New Jersey Probationary License Be Suspended?

If you hold a probationary license, you will face a mandatory 90-day suspension if convicted of another traffic violation after completing the course. Your eligibility to get a regular license will also be postponed.

What Happens If I Am Convicted of a Drug or Alcohol Offense While I Have a Probationary License?

The penalties you might face for a drug or alcohol offense while on a probationary license depend on a number of factors, including:

• Your age
• Your alleged blood alcohol concentration (BAC)
• Whether there were drugs in your vehicle

A conviction could lead to license loss, substantial fines, and even prison time. If you or your child has been charged with a DUI while on a probationary license, contact an experienced criminal defense lawyer immediately.

Contact a New Jersey Criminal Defense Lawyer

New Jersey has one of the strictest probationary license programs in the country. Preparing yourself for the regulations and limitations you must follow is critical so there are no speed bumps on the road to full driving privileges. But if you do run into trouble, help is a phone call away.

At the Law Office of Jason A. Volet, we are proud to defend clients against traffic violations and criminal charges. We know the stress you’re under and will relieve your burden by handling every aspect of your defense. You won’t have to go through this alone.

If you were issued a traffic citation while on a probationary license or charged with a related criminal offense, call or contact us online for a free consultation. Let us fight for your future.

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About the Author

Jason A. Volet
Certified by the Supreme Court of New Jersey as a criminal trial attorney, Jason A. Volet focuses his practice exclusively on criminal and municipal defense in New Jersey and New York. He earned his B.A. in political science from Rutgers College in 1995 and his J.D. from the Hofstra University School of Law in 1998. Mr. Volet began his career in the Monmouth County Prosecutor’s Office, where he gained extensive experience prosecuting both juvenile and adult offenders. Now, as a criminal defense attorney, he uses that experience to fight for the rights of individuals who have been charged with a crime.