New Jersey Drivers Test
Although taking a driving test is not the final step in the process of obtaining a New Jersey drivers license, it is still a very important one. The New Jersey MVC drivers test is the ultimate test of your driving ability and your knowledge of the state's driving regulations. Contrary to the common belief, the New Jersey drivers license is not just about being able to control your vehicle, the driving instructor will also check how you are able to observe the driving rules and road signs. If you are looking for a quick fix that could help you pass the New Jersey driving test, you will not be able to find one since there is none. The only thing that can get you through the test is practice, so try to get as much driving experience as possible before visiting a drivers license test station.
Drivers Test Requirements
Before you can even think of taking a drivers license test, you will have to meet a number of requirements that are set by the state. The graduated drivers license program in New Jersey applies to drivers of all ages, which is different from other states, where similar programs apply only to those who choose to obtain a drivers license before the age of 18. The graduated driver's license program breaks the licensing procedure into a number of separate steps and the application steps that you need to follow depend on your age at the time when you enter the program.
Under 17 Years of Age
Start by applying for a New Jersey special learner permit. You have to be at least 16 years of age and you need to be enrolled in a state-approved behind the wheel course (note that this is not a New Jersey driver's education course, there are no classroom lessons involved). At the time of the application, you will have to take a vision test and a knowledge exam. Once the above requirements are met, you are good to finish your behind the wheel program, have your permit validated by the Motor Vehicle Commission and start practicing driving with an adult driver.
You will need to hold your special learners permit for at least six months and be at least 17 years of age before you can schedule your New Jersey driving test. During this time, you have to observe all permit restrictions and you cannot drive alone at any time.
17 to 21 Years of Age
If you are at least 17 years of age when you decide that it's time for you to get a drivers license, you will have to start by applying for a New Jersey examination permit. You are not required to take any classes prior to applying for the permit, but you may want to sign up for a drivers ed class, since it can help you prepare for the New Jersey permit test that you will have to take at the MVC. Once you pass the vision exam and the drivers permit test at the MVC, you receive an examination permit that grants you the right to practice driving while being supervised by another licensed driver.
The examination permit must be held for at least six months before you can take a New Jersey drivers test. During these months, you have to observe all New Jersey permit restrictions and are not allowed to drive alone.
21 Years of Age and Older
Those who are at least 21 years of age follow a similar application procedure. Your way towards a New Jersey drivers license test will start at the MVC, where you can apply for an examination permit. When you submit your application, you will be required to take a vision exam and a knowledge test that covers the state driving rules and road signs. If you are looking for ways to prepare for the driving test, go ahead and download a copy of the drivers manual. The book can be complimented with New Jersey drivers practice tests that can help you see if you are truly prepared for the exam.
Once you pass the tests, you are provided with an examination permit that allows you to get out on the road with a supervising adult and prepare for the drivers license test. You will have to practice for at least three months before you can go ahead and take your new Jersey drivers test.
Schedule The Driving Test
There are two ways you could schedule your New Jersey drivers test - online or in person.
Scheduling a driving test online is the most convenient option, since you don't even have to leave your house to do that. Just log into the MVC website - njmvc.gov, locate the scheduling tool and off you go.
If the online option does not work for you or you simply do not have access to the Internet, you may visit a local Driver Testing Center and make an appointment in person.
Unfortunately, there is no option to schedule a drivers test in New Jersey over the phone.
Things To Bring / What to Expect
One thing you should definitely concern yourself with is the vehicle you'll be taking the test in. The New Jersey MVC does not offer vehicles for drivers testing, so it will be up to you to come up with a car. Your vehicle will need to be registered and titled and it must also carry proper car insurance. Mechanical condition of the car is important - you will not be tested if the vehicle does not pass minimum safety requirements.
When you show up for your MVC drivers test, you are required to bring your special learner permit or examination permit that was issued at least 12, 6 or 3 months, depending on your age. In addition to having the permit, you are required to provide six points of identification (you can read more about the ID requirements in New Jersey drivers handbook).
You cannot drive to the testing center alone and must be accompanied by a supervising driver. If you are observed to operate a vehicle without a supervising driver seated next to you, you fail the driving test and additional action may be taken against you.
You are tested on the following things while taking a New Jersey driver test:
- Driving in reverse
- Following other vehicles
- Nearing corners, intersections
- Parallel parking
- Sitting properly
- Starting a vehicle
- Steering properly
- Stopping at signs
- Stopping smoothly
- Turning
- Turning around
- Using the horn
- Yielding right-of-way
Causing a traffic accident or not following examiner's instructions will automatically fail you.
If you fail the driving test, you will have to wait at least two weeks before taking the road exam again. Your examiner will tell you what things you need to practice, so make sure to spend time polishing this maneuvers or learning the rules you may have broken.
If you pass the drivers test, you are issued with an authorization for licensing that you take down to the MVC where you will receive your New Jersey drivers license. Remember that no matter how old you are when you pass your driving test, if this is your first license, you are issued with a provisional license and you have to observe all New Jersey probationary license restrictions until your license is upgraded to a full one.
