Starting May 1st, 2021, standard driver's licenses and non-driver IDs will become available to residents who have an ITIN or are willing to obtain the Social Security Administration (SSA) ineligibility letter. You may now make appointments for a driver’s license for May 1st, 2021 and onwards if you have an ITIN or are willing to obtain the Social Security Administration (SSA) ineligibility letter. Starting around June 1st, individuals will have the option to apply with an affidavit attesting to their ineligibility for an SSN instead of using an ITIN or SSA letter.
You can learn about the steps to apply for a New Jersey driver’s license below and by watching MVC’s How To Get Your First License Videos.
Note: If you are ages 16-20, please click here for more information. Select your age group.
If you are 21+, please read the instructions below.
STEP 1: Prepare for the knowledge test and get your documents in order
The first step is to study for the written exam and get your documents in order by choosing which documents you can use to prove 6 points of ID under the MVC 6 point system.
What you need:
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Collect your documents to meet the following requirements:
- 6 Points of ID,
- Proof of address, and
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Proof of SSN, ITIN, or proof of ineligibility for an SSN
- Those wishing to apply with an affidavit will be able to apply around June 1st, 2021.
- Click here to see which documents are accepted by the MVC.
- Click here for Study materials for the written exam
- Connect with a local community organization for educational resources for immigrants in your community. Click here to find local organizations that can answer your questions and provide direct assistance.
STEP 2: Apply for an Examination Permit
The second step is to get your examination permit.
BEFORE you go to the agency:
- Print and complete this application form ahead of time (click here).
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Make an appointment to get your permit.
- For the basic standard license, choose “Purchase an auto examination permit.”
At the agency:
Bring your signed application form, 6 points of ID, and $10 fee (credit/debit card, cash, check, or money order) to the licensing center.
STEP 3: Take the Knowledge Test
The third step is to schedule and take your knowledge test.
- Make an appointment for the knowledge test.
- Bring your permit and a photo ID or your primary ID to your appointment.
- Pass the knowledge test and obtain a learner's permit.
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Pass the vision test
- If you wear glasses/contacts, bring them. If you pass the vision test with them, you must drive with them.
- Now you can practice supervised driving to prepare for the road test and obtain a probationary license.
STEP 4: Practice Supervised Driving
The fourth step is to practice for the road test for three months:
- You must be accompanied in the front seat by an adult supervising driver who is at least 21 years of age, and who possesses a valid New Jersey driver’s license, and has a minimum of three years driving experience.
- IF YOU ARE UNDER THE AGE OF 21, you must use license plate decals.
- You cannot use cell phones, handheld video games or any other interactive, wireless device, whether it is “hands-free” or not.
- Seat belts must be worn at all times.
STEP 5: Pass the Road Test and Get Your Probationary License
The fifth step is to pass the road test and get a "probationary" license with special restrictions.
BEFORE you go to the agency for the road test:
- Schedule your road test at least 3 months after passing the knowledge test
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For the road test, you will need:
- To bring your permit and the same 6 points of ID you used to obtain the permit.
- An accompanying NJ driver over the age of 21 and with at least three years of driving experience
- IF YOU ARE UNDER THE AGE OF 21, bring license plate decals.
- If you pass, the examiner will endorse your permit. If you fail, you must wait at least 14 days before retaking the test.
AFTER you pass the road test, you can get a probationary license. Bring the following to the agency:
- 6 Points of ID
- Proof of address
- Your learner’s permit (proof of successful road test)
- $6 (credit, debit card, cash, check, or money order payable to NJMVC)
Answering questions on the signature pad:
- In response to the question regarding voter registration, select “Decline Voter Registration” if you are under 17 or not a US citizen.
Your probationary license will be mailed to you. You must practice unsupervised driving for at least one year before you can obtain your full, unrestricted driver license.
STEP 6: Practice unsupervised driving for one year and get your Basic Driver's License
The final step is to keep practicing with your "probationary" license for one year.
AFTER one year of unsupervised driving, you can upgrade your probationary license to an unrestricted driver's license. You will need to pay an upgrade fee of $18 (credit, debit card, cash, check, or money order payable to NJ MVC).
Now you can get your full, unrestricted driver’s license!
For more information or questions, contact us at [email protected].