How many practice hours do you need in New Jersey?
In New Jersey, a learner driver must log 50 hours of supervised driving practice—including 10 at night—before applying for a license.
New Jersey learner permit requirements
- Minimum permit age: 16
- Supervised practice required: 50 hours total, 10 at night
- Permit hold period: 6 months
- License eligibility age: 17
- How hours are certified: Certification of Supervised Driving (BA-CSD) — 50 hours including 10 during darkness, signed by the supervising driver.
Since Feb. 1, 2025 New Jersey requires permit holders under 21 to log 50 hours of supervised practice, 10 of them during darkness, before a probationary license is issued. The permit must also be held 6 months. New Jersey is the only state that requires a red decal on the license plates of GDL drivers under 21 (Kyleigh's Law).
Requirements change and have exceptions. Always confirm the current rules with the New Jersey MVC before applying.
New Jersey's graduated licensing stages
Drive with a licensed adult 21+ who has 3+ years of experience; hold 6 months and log 50 hours (10 during darkness).
Red decals required; night, passenger, and phone limits apply.
Issued after 12 clean months on the probationary license.
Driving restrictions for new New Jersey drivers
Probationary drivers can't drive between 11:01 p.m. and 5 a.m., with limited exceptions for work and religious activities.
Probationary drivers may carry only one passenger besides dependents, unless a parent or guardian is in the car.
GDL permit and probationary license holders may not use any handheld or hands-free device while driving.
Log every New Jersey practice hour automatically
DriveMint tracks each supervised drive with GPS, separates day and night hours, and generates a DMV-ready report—so you can prove all 50 hours without a paper logbook.
New Jersey driving practice FAQs
How many driving hours do you need in New Jersey?+
New Jersey requires 50 hours of supervised driving practice, including 10 hours at night, before a teen can apply for a license.
Does New Jersey require practice hours?+
Yes, since Feb. 1, 2025. Permit holders under 21 must log 50 hours of supervised practice, including 10 during darkness, and submit a Certification of Supervised Driving. The permit must also be held 6 months.
What are the red decals in New Jersey?+
Under Kyleigh's Law, GDL drivers under 21 must display reflective red decals on the front and rear license plates so the restrictions are enforceable.
Requirements in other states
Compare practice hours in all 50 states side by side, or read what actually counts as a night driving hour.