How to Get Your NJ Permit at 16

In New Jersey, 16-year-olds can begin driving through the "early-bird" route, which requires a certified driving school. Here's the order of operations. The official requirements are on the NJ MVC site.

Step 1: Enroll in driver education

Your teen enrolls in a driver-education program and a certified 6-hour behind-the-wheel course. This is required at 16 — a parent cannot provide these hours.

Step 2: Pass the knowledge and vision tests

The teen takes the written knowledge test and a vision screening. Studying the official NJ Driver Manual is the best preparation.

Step 3: Bring the right documents

NJ uses a 6-Point ID verification. You'll typically need a primary ID such as an original birth certificate or US passport, a Social Security card, and the school's paperwork.

• 6-Point ID (birth certificate or passport, etc.)
• Social Security card
• Signed driving-school contract

Step 4: Complete the 6 hours

The teen finishes the 6 hours of behind-the-wheel instruction in a dual-control car with a certified instructor.

Step 5: Validate the permit at the MVC

Once the hours are done, you return to the MVC to validate the student learner's permit. Only then can supervised practice driving begin — and the clock starts on the 50-hour practice requirement and the 6-month holding period.