New Jersey Driver Manual PDF

THE 2024 NEW JERSEY DRIVER MANUAL www.njmvc.gov WELCOME TO DRIVING IN NEW JERSEY! The New Jersey Driver Manual will help you learn and under- stand safe driving practices. This manual provides valuable information that you will need to pass the knowledge portion of New Jersey...

THE 2024 NEW JERSEY DRIVER MANUAL www.njmvc.gov WELCOME TO DRIVING IN NEW JERSEY! The New Jersey Driver Manual will help you learn and under- stand safe driving practices. This manual provides valuable information that you will need to pass the knowledge portion of New Jersey’s driver test. The manual will offer you important safety information that can help you become a safe, courteous, and aware driver. If you already have a New Jersey driver license, this manual can help you refresh your knowledge and provide an update for new laws and rules of the road. Please remember: DRIVING IS A PRIVILEGE, NOT A RIGHT. The information contained in this manual should be used as a general guide to the rules of driving a motor vehicle but not as a substitute for the actual laws. If there is a discrepancy between what is cited in this manual and what is in statute or regulation, the statute or regulation governs. This manual is not a legal reference for New Jersey motor vehicle and traffic laws. You can access the Driver Manual on the New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission (MVC) website www.njmvc.gov. This MVC Driver Manual is available at no cost.  Page 1 Table of Contents Page number CHAPTER 1 The New Jersey Driver License System 2 CHAPTER 2 New Jersey Driver Testing 28 CHAPTER 3 Driver Responsibility 38 CHAPTER 4 Safe Driving Rules and Regulations 60 CHAPTER 5 Defensive Driving 88 CHAPTER 6 Drinking, Drugs, and Health 112 CHAPTER 7 Driver Privileges and Penalties 120 CHAPTER 8 Sharing the Road with Others 142 CHAPTER 9 Vehicle Information 156 CHAPTER 10 Motorcycle Manual 162 Appendices Page number CHAPTER 11 Driver Safety 210 CHAPTER 12 MVC Locations 224 Page 2 1 The New Jersey Driver License System  Page THE NEW JERSEY DRIVER LICENSE SYSTEM 3 Section Contents 4 Laws Governing Driver Licenses 6 Digital Driver License 6 Types of New Jersey Licenses 9 Identity Verification 14 Graduated Driver License (GDL) 19 Special Learner Permits for New Jersey Residents 20 Examination Permits for New Jersey Residents 21 Examination Permits for Out-of-State Drivers 21 Examination Permits for Out-of-Country Drivers 22 International Driving Permit (IDP) 22 Non-Driver ID 22 Organ Donation 23 Next-of-Kin Registry (Sara’s Law) 24 Motor Voter 24 Hearing-Impaired Designation 24 Commercial Driver License (CDL)  Page 4 THE NEW JERSEY DRIVER LICENSE SYSTEM Laws Governing Driver Licenses A motorist who operates a motor vehicle in the State of New Jersey must carry a valid driver license, a valid probationary license, or a validated New Jersey permit. The motorist must also carry valid insurance and vehicle registration cards. (N.J.S.A. 39:3-29) A motorist with a validated New Jersey driver permit must be accom- panied by an appropriately licensed driver. (N.J.S.A. 39:3-13, 39:3-13.2a) A motorist who changes addresses must report this change to the MVC within one week after moving. This includes individuals who are moving out of New Jersey. (N.J.S.A. 39:3-36) A motorist who legally changes his/her name (marriage, divorce, order of court) must report the change to the MVC within two weeks. (N.J.S.A. 39:3-9a) A motorist with a valid out-of-state license who moves to New Jersey must apply for a New Jersey license within 60 days (commercial driver license (CDL) within 30 days) or before the current license expires, which- ever is sooner. The out-of-state license must be surrendered upon receipt of a New Jersey license. (N.J.S.A. 39:3-17.1, 39:3-10.17, 39:3-10) A motorist with a valid license from another country may drive with that license for up to a year. (N.J.A.C. 13:21-8.2(f)) Operators of commercial vehicles, such as large trucks, buses, and vehicles that transport hazardous materials, must satisfy more stringent testing standards than the drivers of automobiles or motorcycles. These operators must still possess a valid, basic New Jersey driver license prior to applying for a CDL. (N.J.S.A. 39:3-10.18) Individuals who have never had a driver license must complete the MVC’s Graduated Driver License (GDL) Program, which introduces driving privileges in phases with a period of supervised driving before getting a basic driver license. (N.J.S.A. 39:3-10, 39:3-13 through 39:13.4)  Page THE NEW JERSEY DRIVER LICENSE SYSTEM 5 All applicants applying for a New Jersey driver license who are under 18 years of age must present a completed consent form signed by a parent or guardian. (N.J.S.A. 39:3-13 and 39:3-13.3) All applicants applying for a Standard New Jersey driver license must provide proof of Social Security number, Taxpayer Identification Number, or an affidavit stating that they are not eligible for a Social Security number and do not have a Taxpayer Identification Number, 1 (one) proof of a New Jersey residential address, and 6 (six) points of identification. Documents must be in English or be accompanied by an approved translation. (N.J.S.A. 39:3-10 and N.J.A.C. 13:21-1.3 and 13:21-8.2) All applicants applying for a REAL ID New Jersey driver license must provide 2 (two) proofs of a New Jersey residential address, 1 (one) proof of full Social Security number, and 6 (six) points of identification, including documentation that verifies that their presence in the United States is authorized under federal law. Documents must be in English or be accompanied by an approved translation. (N.J.S.A. 39:3-3.10 and N.J.A.C. 13:21-8.2A) Drivers under age 21 who possess an examination permit, special learner’s permit, or probationary license shall not operate a motor vehicle without displaying two visible reflective GDL decals, which are provided by the Motor Vehicle Commission, on the license plates of the vehicle. (N.J.S.A. 39:3-13(g), 39:3-13.2a(a) and 39:3-13.4(f)) Disclaimer: If there is a discrepancy between what is cited throughout this manual and what is in statute or regulation, the statute or regulation governs.  Page 6 THE NEW JERSEY DRIVER LICENSE SYSTEM Digital Driver License In 2021, New Jersey rolled out a long- planned security upgrade with a new license design and modern security features. A digital driver license (DDL) will be issued centrally from a secure production facility. Customers can apply at Licensing Centers statewide and will be provided an interim license valid for 30 days. The DDL, along with facial recognition technology, helps to prevent identity theft and ensures that only those individuals who are legally entitled to have a driver license may get one. The DDL has more than 20 covert and overt features. Motorists under 21 years of age will receive a distinctive vertical-format driver license. Driver licenses are valid for four years. Altering a driver license or presenting an altered driver license may result in the loss of a motorist’s driving privilege, a fine up to $1,000, and/ or imprisonment. Additionally, obtaining a driver license illegally may result in a fine up to $500 and/or imprisonment. Types of New Jersey Licenses The following chart shows age requirements, license fees, and required tests for each type of license the MVC offers. Testing for commercial and moped licenses requires the use of topic-specific manuals, in addition to this driver and motorcycle manual. Copies of the commercial and moped manuals may be obtained at any MVC agency, viewed online, or requested at www.njmvc. gov. Manuals may also be obtained by calling (609) 292-6500. An endorse- ment added to a license will expire with the license, except for Hazmat, which must be tested every 2 (two) years. When an endorsement is added to an existing license, the charge in the endorsement is prorated to cover the period remaining until expiration.  Page THE NEW JERSEY DRIVER LICENSE SYSTEM 7 Basic Automobile License Expiration: 4 Years (Standard/REAL ID) Minimum Age: 18 (Permit: 16) For all types of Class D motor vehicles Permit Fee: $10 registered by the MVC, except motorcycles. License Fee(s): $24/$35 Test(s) Required: KVR1 Probationary Automobile License Expiration: 4 Years (Standard/REAL ID) Minimum Age: 17 (Permit: 16) For all types of Class D motor vehicles $10 + $4 Red Permit Fee: registered by the MVC, except motorcycles. reflectorized decals License Fee: $63 Test(s) Required: KVR1 Commercial Driver License Expiration: 4 Years (Standard/REAL ID) Minimum Age: 18/214 For large trucks, buses, and vehicles Permit Fee: $125 (Classes A, B, and C). $42 +$2 per endorsement/$53 License Fee(s): +2 per endorsement Test(s) Required: CKVR1 Motorcycle License (Standard/REAL ID) Expiration: 4 Years Minimum Age: 17 For most vehicles with fewer than four wheels (Class E). Issued as a separate license or as Permit Fee: $10 +4 decals an endorsement (M) if the individual already License Fee(s): $24/$35 holds a basic New Jersey driver license. Test(s) Required: KVR1 Probationary Motorcycle License Expiration: 4 Years (Standard/REAL ID) Minimum Age: 17 For most vehicles with fewer than four wheels Permit Fee: $10 +4 decals (Class E). Issued as a separate license or as License Fee: $63 an endorsement (M) if the individual already holds a basic New Jersey driver license. Test(s) Required: KVR1  Page 8 THE NEW JERSEY DRIVER LICENSE SYSTEM Moped License (Standard/REAL ID) Expiration: 4 Years Minimum Age: 15 For unlicensed motorists 15 years of age and older. Not needed if operator has a Class A, B, Permit Fee: $5 C, D, or E license. License Fee(s): $6/$17 Test(s) Required: KVR1 Agricultural License (Standard/REAL ID) Expiration: 4 Years2 Minimum Age: 16 For farming purposes only. May be granted to persons between 16 and 17 years old. Permit Fee: $10 License Fee(s): $6/$17 Test(s) Required: KVR1 Boat License (Standard/REAL ID Expiration: 4 Years2 endorsements only) Minimum Age: 16 For individuals 16 years of age and older, Permit Fee: n/a who operate a motorboat on fresh, non-tidal License Fee: $24 waters, such as lakes, creeks, or rivers, that are Test(s) Required: n/a non-tidal waters only not affected by tidal conditions. All persons who wish to operate a power vessel must possess a Boating Safety Certificate and present it when applying for a boat license. For more information about New Jersey boating requirements, visit the State Police Marine Services website at www.state.nj.us/ njsp/maritime/index.html. (N.J.S.A. 12:7-61.1) 1 K-Knowledge, V-Vision, R-Road, C-Commercial. 2 Or until a basic license is obtained at 18 years of age. 3 Motorist must return to an MVC Licensing Center in one year to have license upgraded. Fee is prorated, and usually is $19.50 for standard or $29.00 for REAL ID. 4 CDL applicants must be at least 18 years old. Applicants under 21 may travel only in New Jersey (intrastate, not interstate) and may not receive HAZMAT or passenger endorsements. 5 Out-of-state CDL transfer fees are $10. 6 Class E licenses are $24; Class M endorsements are $18.  Page THE NEW JERSEY DRIVER LICENSE SYSTEM 9 Identity Verification All Standard New Jersey driver license applicants must provide 6 points of ID Verification by presenting documents that prove their age and identity. All applicants must prove identity through a prescribed combination of documents that includes: At least one primary document At least one secondary document At least six points of ID Proof of New Jersey residential address Use the charts on the following pages to select your documents or use the online Standard Document selector at https://www.nj.gov/mvc/license/6pointid.htm. All REAL ID New Jersey driver license applicants must provide verification by presenting documents that prove their age, identity, Social Security number and legal presence in the U.S. All applicants must prove identity through a prescribed combination of documents that includes “2+1+6”: Two proofs of New Jersey residential address One proof of full Social Security number At least six points of ID At least one primary document At least one secondary document Use the charts on the following pages to select your documents, or use the online REAL ID Document selector at www.state.nj.us/mvc/realid/selector.html. For assistance with ID Verification, visit www.njmvc.gov or call (609) 292-6500. Note: Fees in this manual are subject to change. Current fees are available online at www. njmvc.gov or by calling (609) 292-6500. If discrepancies exist within or between documents presented to the MVC, the applicant may be required to provide additional documentation. Any permit or license application may be refused if a document appears altered, false, or otherwise invalid. *IMPORTANT INFORMATION If your current legal name is different from the name on your civil birth certificate, you must show legal proof of the name change. Legal proof = certified marriage or civil union certificate, divorce decree, or court order linking the new name with the previous name. Note: A divorce decree may be used as authority to resume using a previous name only if it contains the married name and the previous name and permits a return to use of the previous name. All ID documents must be unlaminated, original, or certified copies, in English and have the required state or municipal seal. Certified copies of NJ records are available from the municipality that originally issued them and from the State Bureau of Vital Statistics at www.nj.gov/health/vital or (609) 292-4087. If your birth certificate is from Jersey City/Hudson County, you must check: www.state.nj.us/health/vital/order-vital/ jersey-city-hudson-county-records. Additional requirements may apply for non-US citizens; call (609) 292-6500.  Page 10 THE NEW JERSEY DRIVER LICENSE SYSTEM NEW JERSEY STANDARD LICENSE & NON-DRIVER ID REQUIREMENTS 6 POINTS PROOF OF IDENTITY/PROOF OF DATE OF BIRTH PRIMARY Applicant must submit at least one document from the following. US or US territory birth certificate or certified Photo driver license issued by country other copy filed with a state office of vital statistics than the US, must be presented with another or equivalent agency in the individual’s state government issued document of birth Certificate of Naturalization US Department of State birth certificate (Form N-550, N-570 or N-578) (Form FS-545 or DS-1350) Certificate of Citizenship US Department of State Consular Report of (Form N-560, N-561 or N-645) Birth Abroad (Form FS-240) Permanent Resident Card (Form I-551) US adoption papers ID card issued by a consulate or national US passport or passport card government Foreign government issued passport from Refugee Travel Document (Form I-571) applicant’s country of citizenship US Re-entry Permit (Form I-327) NJ digitized driver license (including I-94 stamped “Refugee,” “Parolee,” “Asylee,” probationary license) or “Notice of Action” (Form I-797 approved NJ digitized non-driver ID card petition) by USCIS US military photo identification card I-94 with attached photo stamped “Processed (Common Access Card) for I-551…” by USCIS Original birth certificate from any country Photo Employment Authorization Card (Form Photo driver license from any state, US I-766) (must be presented with a valid territory or the District of Columbia SS card or proof of ITIN) + Applicant must submit one document from the PROOF OF NJ RESIDENCY following. (Note: All documents must display residential address and have applicant’s name) NJ driver license/non-driver identification If under 18, statement from parent or guard- card, or a Motor Vehicle Commission issued ian certifying address of applicant driver license renewal form Utility or credit card bill issued in the Property tax bill, statement, or receipt or any past 90 days letter or correspondence received from the A deed or title to real property IRS or state tax office within the past year First class mail from any government agency Original unexpired lease or rental agreement in the past six months with name of applicant as lessee or renter High school or college report card or tran- Checking or savings account statement from script within the past two years a bank or credit union issued within the last 60 days  Page THE NEW JERSEY DRIVER LICENSE SYSTEM 11 Documents not written in English must be accompanied by a certified translation in English. No primary or secondary documents can be expired more than three years. Note: Commercial Driver License (CDL) applicants must provide proof of US citizenship or lawful Applicant must submit at least one permanent resident status in the US. SECONDARY document from the following (No more than two 1-point documents allowed): NJ digitized driver license (including US govern- probationary license) ment em- Driving privilege card with photo issued by NJ digitized non-driver ID card ployee driver any state, municipality, US territory or the license District of Columbia Photo driver license from any state, US territory or the District of US govern- State professional license Columbia ment employ- NJ Public Assistance card with photo ee photo ID Legal name change court order SS card with SSA verification card signed by a judge or court clerk High school diploma or GED, college diploma US military dis- Civil marriage or civil union license or trade school degree from any country charge papers or certificate or divorce decree Bank statement/record on bank letterhead (DD214) Document issued by US DHS (can’t be used in conjunction with ATM card) FAA pilot US Uniformed Services photo ID card license ATM card with preprinted name and appli- US Civilian Retiree photo ID card cant’s signature (can’t be used in conjunction Certified with bank statement) Veteran’s Administration universal adoption access photo ID card records from Health insurance card or prescription card any country – Employee identification card accompanied Official school or college photo other than the by a printed pay stub from applicant’s em- ID card with transcript or school United States ployment in the US records (with applicant’s DOB) from any country NJ DOC ID Property tax statement, bill or receipt issued card by a NJ municipality NJ Firearm Purchaser card For NJ high school students: a waiver certifi- cate for the written portion of the driver test + PROOF OF SSN OR ITIN* Applicant must submit social security number on application for verification with SSA. IF verification fails you must submit one of the following to SSN include full name and full SSN: Social Security Card (no copies) SSA-1099 Form issued within the W-2 Form issued within the past year past year Pay stub (must include full name and Non-SSA-1099 Form issued within the full SSN) issued within the past year past year Applicant must submit one document from the following. Official document from the IRS or the NJ income tax refund displaying ITIN ITIN New Jersey Division of Taxation display- ing applicant’s name and ITIN. *Individuals ineligible for an SSN and who do not have an ITIN may submit a signed affidavit form available on the initial license page of the MVC website WWW.NJMVC.GOV. The affidavit must be notarized, or signed in front of an MVC agency employee. False statements are punishable by law. Legal proof of name change is a certified marriage or civil union certificate, divorce decree, or court order linking the new name with the previous name. A divorce decree may be used as authority to resume using a previous name only if it contains the married name and previous name and states a return to use of the previous name. A marriage or civil union certificate may only be used as proof of change to a last name. Revised 6/25/22  Page 12 THE NEW JERSEY DRIVER LICENSE SYSTEM START HERE 2 + 1 + 6 = Certified copies of NJ records are available from the municipality that originally issued them and from the Office of Vital Statistics and Registry: For a replacement SSN card visit: www.nj.gov/health/vital or (609) 292-4087 www.socialsecurity.gov/myaccount I 2 STEP PROOFS OF RESIDENTIAL ADDRESS Valid NJ driver license/non-driver identification card, or a Motor Original, agreement unexpired lease or rental Vehicle Commission issued driver license renewal form (displaying Tax bill, statement or receipt, and/ or any letter or correspondence residential address) received from the IRS or tax office Utility or credit card bill issued in within the past year the past 90 days First class mail from any govern- Checking or savings account state- ment agency in the past six months ment from a bank or credit union issued within the past 60 days If under 18, statement from parent or guardian certifying address of NEXT applicant II 1 STEP PROOF OF FULL SSN Applicant must submit Social Security number on application for verification with SSA. IF verification fails you must submit one of the following to include full name and SSN: Social Security Card 1099 Form issued within the past year W-2 Form issued within the past year Documents from steps I and II may Pay Stub with name and full SSN also be used as secondary documents if listed as an option. NEXT III 6 POINTS COMBINED FROM PRIMARY STEP AND SECONDARY (REQUIRED) PRIMARY SELECT ONE AND ONLY ONE DOCUMENT FROM PRIMARY. Unexpired US passport or Certificate of Citizenship (Form passport card N-560 or N-561) US or US Territory birth certificate Current Permanent Resident Card (Form certified copy filed with a state I-551) issued by USCIS (with expiration office of vital statistics or equivalent date) agency in the individual’s state Unexpired foreign passport with valid of birth visa and I-94 (stamp or form version) US Department of State birth Current photo employment authorization certificate (Form FS-545 or DS-1350) card (USCIS Form I-688B or I-766) US Department of State Consular Report of Birth Abroad (Form FS-240) Current Permanent Resident Card (Form I-551) issued by INS (without expiration Certificate of Naturalization date) (Form N-550, N-578, or N-570) CONTINUE  Page THE NEW JERSEY DRIVER LICENSE SYSTEM 13 ALL IDENTITY DOCUMENTS MUST BE ORIGINAL OR CERTIFIED COPIES IN ENGLISH AND HAVE THE REQUIRED STATE AND/OR MUNICIPAL SEALS. If the applicant’s birth certificate is from Jersey City/Hudson County, you must check: www.state. nj.us/health/vital/order-vital/jersey-city-hudson-county-records/ III 6 STEP POINTS COMBINED FROM PRIMARY AND SECONDARY (REQUIRED) SECONDARY CANNOT USE MORE THAN TWO 1-POINT DOCUMENTS. Unexpired standard photo driver license Unexpired federal government employee from NJ or any state, or US Territory, and driver license the District of Columbia Unexpired federal government employee Unexpired standard non-driver identifica- photo identification card tion card from NJ only US military discharge papers (FormDD-214) Social Security card FAA pilot license Bank/credit union statement or record US school photo identification card with (within the past 60 days) transcript or school records ATM/debit card with preprinted name US college photo identification card with and applicant’s signature (ATM/debit card transcript and bank statement cannot be submitted together) Legal name change court order signed by Current health insurance card or prescrip- a judge or court clerk tion card displaying applicant’s name Civil marriage or civil union certificate or Current employee identification card with divorce decree pay stub US adoption papers State professional license Current US military photo identification NJ public assistance card with photo card (also known as an NJ Social Services Current US military dependent card identification card) US military photo retiree card High school diploma, GED or college degree NJ firearm purchaser card Property tax statement, bill or receipt issued by an NJ municipality Unexpired REAL ID driver license, non-dri- ver identification card, or probationary For NJ high school students: a waiver license from any state, US territory and the certificate for the written portion of the District of Columbia driver’s test Veterans Administration universal access photo identification card Note: Financial information can be blacked out. Legal proof of name change is a certified marriage or civil union certificate, divorce decree, or court order linking the new name with the previous name. A divorce decree may be used as authority to resume using a previous name only if it contains the married name and previous name and states a return to use of the previous name. Revised 6/25/22  Page 14 THE NEW JERSEY DRIVER LICENSE SYSTEM Graduated Driver License (GDL) In 2001, New Jersey sought to enhance driver preparation and safety by implementing a multi-stage driver licensing system. Known as the Graduated Driver License (GDL) Program, the system gradually introduces driving privileges to first-time drivers, extends their practice driving time and requires a minimum age of 18 in order to receive an unrestricted, basic driver license. GDL restrictions placed upon first-time drivers must be strictly adhered to. Failure to do so may result in a fine of $100 or suspension of a motorist’s driving privilege. (N.J.S.A. 39:3-10 and 39:3-13 through 39:3-13.8)  Page THE NEW JERSEY DRIVER LICENSE SYSTEM 15 THE EARLY BIRD ROAD GDL: OPTION A Must be at least 16 years old Must have signed parent or guardian consent Must be enrolled in approved behind-the- wheel driver training course through the NJ Get a Special Department of Education or commercial driving STEP 1 Learner Permit school An approved instructor must purchase the permit Must pass the MVC’s knowledge and vision tests Must pay required fee The MVC will validate Special Learner Permits ONLY after training course completion. Must observe special learner permit driving Practice with restrictions an Adult STEP 2 Supervising Must practice at least six months Driver Must have red GDL decals attached to vehicle when driving Must have completed six months of super- vised driving without any suspensions or Get a postponements STEP 3 Probationary License Must pass the MVC’s road test Must be at least 17 years old Must practice unsupervised driving for at least one year With a Must observe probationary driver license STEP 4 Probationary restrictions Driver License Must have red GDL decals attached to vehicle when driving Must be at least 18 years old Must have completed one year of unsupervised Get the Basic STEP 5 Driver License driving with probationary driver license restrictions Must pay required fee Note: Permit may not be used for practice driving until validated at an MVC Driver Testing Center. Page 16 THE NEW JERSEY DRIVER LICENSE SYSTEM THE YOUNG ADULT ROAD GDL: OPTION B Must pass the MVC’s knowledge and vision tests Get an Must be at least 17 years old STEP 1 Examination Must pay required fee Permit Must obtain parent or guardian consent if you are under 18 years of age Must practice with an adult supervising driver Must practice at least six months Practice STEP 2 Supervised Must observe examination-permit driving Driving restrictions Must have red GDL decals attached to vehicle when driving Must have completed six months of super- Get a vised driving without any suspensions or STEP 3 Probationary postponements License Must pass the MVC’s road test Must practice unsupervised driving for at least one year Practice Must follow probationary driver license STEP 4 Unsupervised restrictions Driving Must have red GDL decals attached to vehicle when driving Must be at least 18 years old Get the Must have completed one year of unsupervised STEP 5 Basic Driver driving License Must pay required fee  Page THE NEW JERSEY DRIVER LICENSE SYSTEM 17 THE ADULT ROAD GDL: OPTION C Must be at least 21 years old Get an Must pass MVC’s knowledge and vision tests STEP 1 Examination Must pay required fee Permit Must obtain parent or guardian consent if you are under 18 years of age Practice Must practice with an adult supervising driver STEP 2 Supervised Driving Must practice at least three months Must have completed three months of Get a supervised driving without any suspensions or STEP 3 Probationary postponements License Must pass the MVC’s road test Practice Must practice unsupervised driving for at least STEP 4 Unsupervised one year Driving Must have completed one year of Get the Basic unsupervised driving STEP 5 Driver License Must pay required fee  Page 18 THE NEW JERSEY DRIVER LICENSE SYSTEM SPECIAL LEARNER PERMIT RESTRICTIONS No driving between 11:01 pm and 5:00 am No using hand-held or hands-free cell phones or any other electronic devices. Permit holder must be accompanied in the front seat by an adult super- vising driver who is at least 21 years of age and who possesses a valid New Jersey driver license and has a minimum of three years’ driving experience Passengers are limited to any parent, guardian or dependent of the special permit holder and one additional passenger. Permit holder and all passengers must wear seat belts. Must display decals on license plates. EXAMINATION PERMIT RESTRICTIONS No driving between 11:01 pm and 5:00 am1 No using hand-held or hands-free cell phones or any other electronic devices. Permit holder 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 license and has a minimum of three years’ driving experience. Passengers are limited to dependents of the permit holder and one addition- al passenger, unless accompanied by a parent/guardian.1 Permit holder and all passengers must wear seat belts. Must display decals on license plates.1 PROBATIONARY DRIVER LICENSE RESTRICTIONS No driving between 11:01 pm and 5:00 am1 No using hand-held or hands-free cell phones or any other electronic devices. 1 If the Examination Permit or Probationary License holder is 21 years of age or older, hour, passenger and decal restrictions do not apply. Passengers are limited to dependents of the probationary license holder and one additional person, unless accompanied by a parent/guardian.1 Probationary license holder and all passengers must wear seat belts. Must display decals on license plates.1  Page THE NEW JERSEY DRIVER LICENSE SYSTEM 19 GDL DECAL All GDL drivers under age 21, who possess a permit or probationary license, are required to display two visible, red reflective decals, distributed through the MVC, on any vehicle that they operate. One decal is to be displayed on the top left corner of the rear license plate and the other on the top left corner of the front license plate. The two removable decals are provided at the time a permit is issued for a fee of $4. Additional decals are available for $4 per pair at any MVC Licensing Center. (N.J.S.A. 39:3-13 and 39:3-13.4f) GDL DRIVER EXEMPTIONS Exemptions to the hours of rule for permit and probationary drivers under age 21: Proof of a need to drive during the prohibited hours for employment and/or religion. For an exemption, the motorist must carry a legible certifi- cation to indicate this need from his/her employer or religious official on the official letterhead of the business, organization or religious institution, with the signature of the certifying official and his/ her name, title, address, and phone number. (N.J.A.C. 13:21-8.18) Note: If the student driver commits a traffic offense, responsibility will be with both the student and instructor or adult supervising driver. All motorists who possess a probationary driver license, whose probationary licensing period is not extended by the MVC beyond the standard 12 months, must visit an MVC Licensing Center to upgrade to a basic driver license after the end of those 12 months. Motorists who fail to do so will remain subject to the probationary driver license restrictions and could be cited by law enforcement for violating the restrictions. Special Learner Permits for New Jersey Residents Any New Jersey resident who is at least 16 years old and is not in suspension status may enroll in a behind-the-wheel driver training course to obtain a special learner permit at any MVC Licensing Center. The applicant must have the signed consent of his/her parent/guardian, must be enrolled in a behind-the-wheel driver training course approved by the NJ Department of Education or conducted by a commercial driving school, and must pass the MVC’s knowledge test and vision screening. An approved course is six full hours of behind-the-wheel instruction in a dual-controlled vehicle. These hours are exclusive of time spent at the MVC for permit purchasing or testing. The instructor must purchase the permit, which is valid for two years. (N.J.S.A. 39:3-13.1)  Page 20 THE NEW JERSEY DRIVER LICENSE SYSTEM After an applicant fills out the form with his/her personal information and provides 6 Points of ID Verification, proof of residential address, and proof of Social Security number, the instructor can purchase a permit at any MVC Licensing Center. Upon completion of the approved driver training course and before practice driving, the permit holder must have the permit validated at any MVC Licensing Center with a Driver Testing Center. Examination Permits for New Jersey Residents Any New Jersey resident who is at least 17 years old and is not in suspension status can obtain a driver examination permit at any MVC Licensing Center. The examination permit is different from a student learner permit because the applicant does not have to be a student and an instructor is not neces- sary. The MVC will validate the permit for practice driving after the applicant passes the required knowledge test and vision screening. Results are valid for two years (see Chapter 2). Note: Most agencies conduct knowledge testing and vision screening. To find out which MVC Licensing Centers offer driver testing services, check online at www.njmvc.gov or call (609) 292-6500. Note: A driver examination permit is required even if the motorist possesses a valid license from another state. See Examination Permits for out-of-state drivers.  Page THE NEW JERSEY DRIVER LICENSE SYSTEM 21 Examination Permits for Out-of-State Drivers All out-of-state drivers are required to purchase an examination permit within 60 days of becoming a permanent New Jersey resident or when his/ her out-of-state license expires, whichever comes first. Out-of-state drivers who are under 18 years of age and move to New Jersey are subject to this state’s GDL Program. If they wish to apply for a New Jersey license, they should follow the steps outlined for special and examination permit holders. Permits may be purchased at any MVC Licensing Center. Applicants are required to pass a vision screening test. Knowledge and road tests are waived if you have a valid, non-probationary driver license, or a certified driver abstract, issued by any of the 50 states, the District of Columbia, or U.S. territories. Out-of-state driver licenses must be surrendered when the MVC issues a New Jersey driver license. Examination Permits for Out-of-Country Drivers A motorist with a valid license from another country may drive with that license for up to a year; the motorist may also be eligible for a New Jersey driver license. (N.J.A.C. 13:21-8.2 and 13:21-8.2A) See International Driving Permit section, next page.  Page 22 THE NEW JERSEY DRIVER LICENSE SYSTEM International Driving Permit (IDP) See Examination Permits for out-of-country drivers section, above. Visitors with a foreign driver license who travel to the United States should carry an IDP or attach an acceptable English translation to their national driver license. The IDP is translated into the official languages of the United Nations (including English) and is useful in traffic emergencies. Non-citizens must obtain the IDP in their native country before traveling to the United States. New Jersey motorists who travel to foreign countries may obtain an IDP application through their local AAA club or the American Automobile Touring Alliance (AATA). Visit www.aaa.com/vacation/idpc.html for more information. Note: A motorist must carry a valid driver license. Although it is an official document, the IDP cannot replace a driver license, but it can be used in conjunction with the license to provide an additional source of motorist identification and span foreign language barriers. Non-Driver ID An individual, 14 years of age or older, who does not possess a valid driver license, may apply for a non-driver identification card. To obtain a Standard or REAL ID identification card, the individual must show proof of age, residential address, and provide 6 Points of ID Verification as provided in the Standard or REAL ID document guides. The non-driver ID must be surren- dered if the individual applies for and receives a New Jersey driver license. (N.J.S.A. 39:3-29.2 to 39:3-29.10) Organ Donation You have the power to give others the most precious gift: life. At age 14, you may apply for a non-driver identification card and you will be asked if you want to be included in New Jersey’s Donate Life Registry. When you turn 18 and apply for an unrestricted driver license, or renew your license, you will be asked if you want to be included in New Jersey’s Donate Life Registry. By answering “yes,” you will be agreeing to donate your organs, tissue and eyes upon your death to someone who needs a transplant. When you say “yes” at an MVC Licensing Center, the words "organ donor" will appear on your license. Registering as an organ and tissue donor has nothing to do with living donation or whole-body donation.  Page THE NEW JERSEY DRIVER LICENSE SYSTEM 23 An individual’s decision to be an organ donor can make a difference in lives throughout New Jersey and across the nation. Right now, tens of thousands of people are awaiting organ transplants, while thousands more need tissue and corneal transplants. The shortage of donors is so severe that every day, 21 people die waiting for organs that could save their lives. You can give the gift of life simply by making your wishes known about organ and tissue donation. Saying “yes” to organ and tissue donation is an important decision for everyone, especially the more than 5,000 New Jersey residents whose lives depend on transplants. Anyone 14 years and older can register as a donor. There are no costs to the family for donations, and donations will not affect funeral arrangements. Organs are shared according to a national list: age, gender, race, ethnicity or wealth do not affect who receives donated organs. Registering as an organ and tissue donor is a selfless act. You should share your decision with your family, so they will carry out your wishes at the time of death. Organ and tissue donation saves lives, gives hope to those waiting and creates a legacy. For more information about organ and tissue donation, or to register online, please visit www.donatelifenj.org. Next-of-Kin Registry (Sara’s Law) The Next-of-Kin Registry is a New Jersey statewide web-based system that allows individuals at least 14 years of age to voluntarily submit and maintain emergency contact information through the New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission. This non-public information will only be used by law enforcement officers to locate designated emergency contacts if a person is involved in a motor vehicle crash that renders him or her unable to commu- nicate. (N.J.S.A. 39:4-134.2 to 39:4-134.3) Any individual who legally possesses a New Jersey-issued driver license, probationary license, learner’s permit, non-driver identification card or any other MVC-issued permit or license authorizing an individual to operate a motor vehicle or vessel (i.e., boat) may utilize the registry. Additionally, individuals as young as 14 years old may utilize the Next-of-Kin Registry to submit emergency contacts if they apply for a non-driver ID card. To register online or download a form to submit by mail, visit the MVC web site at www. state.nj.us/mvc/drivertopics/nextofkin.htm.  Page 24 THE NEW JERSEY DRIVER LICENSE SYSTEM Motor Voter The National Voter Registration Act (NVRA) requires that motor vehicle offices provide voter registration opportunities to anyone applying for a new or renewed driver license or ID card or changing his or her address. The process of registering to vote can be conveniently started at any MVC Licensing Center. Applicants who wish to register are provided a signature pad to sign, while their personal information (name, date-of-birth, address, etc.) is sent electronically to the State Board of Elections for review. When customers report a change of address, they are offered the option to have the MVC send the change of address information to the applicable board of elections for voter registration purposes. After the State Board of Elections approves the information received, it notifies the respective County Board of Elections that the applicants’ eligibility requirements have been met, and the applicants are registered to vote. For more information on voter registration, visit www.nj.gov/state/elections/voting-information.html. Hearing-Impaired Designation A special driver license for deaf or hearing-impaired motorists (41 dB loss or more) is provided by the MVC. To obtain this license, which is designat- ed with a numerical code, a motorist must complete an application which is available at any MVC Licensing Center. Verification by a physician or audiologist is required. (N.J.S.A. 39:3-11a) Commercial Driver License (CDL) There are three Commercial Driver License (CDL) classifications: A, B, and C. However, no one can apply for these licenses until he/she is in possession of a valid basic Class D New Jersey driver license or he/she possesses a valid out-of-state CDL. Class A: License is necessary for the operation of: A tractor trailer, or any truck, or truck and trailer with a gross combina- tion weight rating (GCWR) of 26,001 pounds or more, provided the gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) of the vehicle being towed is more than 10,000 pounds. The Class A license also allows the driver to operate all vehicles in the Class B, C, and D categories, provided the driver has qualified for all the proper endorsements.  Page THE NEW JERSEY DRIVER LICENSE SYSTEM 25 Class B: License is necessary for the operation of: Any vehicle with a GVWR of 26,001 pounds or more. A vehicle with a GVWR of 26,001 pounds or more towing a trailer with a gross vehicle weight rating of 10,000 pounds or less. A bus, including school buses, with a gross vehicle weight rating of 26,001 pounds or more designed to transport 16 or more passengers, including the driver. A Class B license allows the driver to operate all vehicles in the Class C and D categories, provided the driver has qualified for all the proper endorsements. Class C: License is necessary for the operation of: Any vehicle with a GVWR of less than 26,001 pounds, used and placard- ed to transport hazardous material. Any bus, including school buses, designated to carry 16 passengers or more, including the driver, and with a GVWR of less than 26,001 pounds and all school vehicles designed for 15 passengers or fewer, including the driver. Any bus or other vehicle designed to transport 8 to 15 passengers, including the driver, which is used for hire. COMMERCIAL DRIVER EXEMPTIONS Taxi drivers, ride-sharing van drivers, funeral procession drivers, operators of rescue, first-aid squad or firefighter apparatus, farmers hauling their own products and equipment within 150 miles of their farms, non-civilian operators of military equipment and operators of construction equipment not designed for operation on public roads are exempt and need not apply for a CDL. Operators of recreational vehicles are also exempt, provided the vehicle is being operated only for personal use. (N.J.S.A. 39:3-10k, 39:3-10.11)  Page 26 THE NEW JERSEY DRIVER LICENSE SYSTEM Commercial Driver License Endorsements Most commercial drivers will need to obtain at least one special endorse- ment. An example of an endorsement on a CDL is “H,” for hazardous materials, which means that the motorist may legally transport hazard- ous materials. CODE VEHICLE ENDORSEMENT SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS T Needed by oper- Requires a knowledge test. Double and ators of vehicle Class A licenses required to Triple Trailers pulling two or three operate this type of vehicle trailers Requires a road test. Other Needed by P special requirements operators of buses are necessary (see CDL Passenger or similar vehicles Manual). Must be 21 years used to transport of age and have 3 years' passengers driving experience Requires a knowledge and road test. Motorists who S hold an “S” endorsement School Needed by all will also have to test for Bus school bus drivers a “P” endorsement. Both are required to operate a school bus. N Needed by opera- Tanker tors of vehicles used Requires a knowledge test. Vehicle to transport liquids or gas in bulk Requires a knowledge test. Must be trained and retested every two H Needed by years. See the Federal Hazardous operators of vehicles Motor Carrier Safety Materials used to transport Administration for hazardous materials requirements (www.fmcsa.dot.gov). Must be 21 years of age.  Page THE NEW JERSEY DRIVER LICENSE SYSTEM 27 COMMERCIAL DRIVER LICENSE RESTRICTIONS Numbered restrictions, such as corrective lenses, are noted on all commer- cial licenses. An example of a special restriction on a commercial license is “L” for air brakes. This means the motorist may not operate a vehicle equipped with air brakes, if designated on the license. COMMERCIAL DRIVER MANUAL For more information on commercial motor vehicle licensing, refer to the MVC’s Commercial Driver Manual. All CDL tests are based on information contained in the manual. To get a copy, visit any MVC Licensing Center or MVC Regional Service Center or view/request it online at www.njmvc.gov. Manuals may also be obtained by calling (609) 292-6500. Page 28 2 New Jersey Driver Testing  Page NEW JERSEY DRIVER TESTING 29 Section Contents 30 Requirements for a Basic Driver License 32 Safety Pledge to Nikhil 33 Voter Registration 34 Road Test 36 Reasons for Rejection  Page 30 NEW JERSEY DRIVER TESTING Requirements for a Basic Driver License 6-POINT ID VERIFICATION All applicants for a New Jersey driver license must have all required docu- ments to satisfy the 6-Point ID Verification. VISION TEST A vision screening is required for all motorists. The MVC may refer applicants with impaired vision to a physician. Periodically, the MVC may require a vision recheck of a New Jersey motorist. KNOWLEDGE TEST The knowledge test consists of 50 questions: plus, a survey question about organ donation. The MVC offers the knowledge test in English, American Sign Language (ASL), and these foreign languages: Arabic, Chinese, French, Japanese, Korean, Polish, Portuguese, Russian, Turkish, Hindi, Albanian, and Spanish. If the applicant cannot read in any language, headphones are supplied to administer an oral test. If the knowledge test is not available in your native language you may use a state-approved interpreter, however, you must first attempt to complete the knowledge test in an offered language. If you fail to pass the test and feel you need an interpreter, please inform the MVC personnel at the testing location and they will make arrangements to secure an interpreter in your native language and pay the appropriate fees. Once an interpreter is secured you will be contacted by an MVC employee with the interpreter appointment date and time. You must inform the MVC of the need for an interpreter at least two weeks in advance of the date you intend to take the written knowledge test. MVC-approved interpreters are also provided for Deaf or Hard of Hearing applicants. The MVC will pay the interpreter’s fees directly associated with the knowledge test after submission of a properly completed payment voucher form.  Page NEW JERSEY DRIVER TESTING 31 INTERPRETERS An approved foreign language interpreter is: An individual listed on the NJ Administrative Office of the Courts (Language Services Section) Registry of Interpreters and Agencies. An approved deaf or hard of hearing interpreter is: An interpreter certified by the National Registry of Interpreters for the Deaf and listed with the New Jersey Division of the Deaf and Hard of Hearing. An interpreter who has been evaluated by the Division of the Deaf and Hard of Hearing and is on the approved list of professional interpreters, www.nj.gov/mvc/license/knowledgetest.htm. TEST REQUIREMENTS SCREENING MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS TESTS Basic License Applicants: 20/50 vision with or without corrective lenses. For sight in one eye only, that eye must meet the 20/50 rule and the applicant must have docu- Eyesight mentation signed by a licensed physician. CDL License Applicants: 20/40 vision with or without corrective lenses in both eyes. Must be able to distinguish among red, green and amber lights. 80 percent, or 40 of the 50 questions, must have Written correct answers. Inform examiner of health problems; a medical review may be necessary. Federal law and New Jersey regulations require commercial drivers to submit a CDL Holder Health Self-Certification form and a valid medical examiner’s certificate, if applicable, to the MVC. Medical examiner certificates must be completed by a federally certified medical examiner.  Page 32 NEW JERSEY DRIVER TESTING OUT-OF-STATE AND OUT-OF-COUNTRY APPLICANTS Applicants may transfer a valid out-of-state license to New Jersey. Knowledge and road tests may be waived for applicants at least 18 years of age, who submit a valid, non-provisional driver license issued by any of the 50 states, the District of Columbia, the U.S. Territories of Samoa and Guam, Puerto Rico, or the U.S. Virgin Islands. The 6-Point ID requirements must also be submitted. These applicants will be issued a four-year basic New Jersey license and will be required to surrender the out-of-state license. Out-of-state applicants between 17 and 18 years of age who possess a valid out-of-state license will be given a probationary license for a period of one year and must comply with New Jersey’s GDL requirements and restrictions. All out-of-country applicants must pass the knowledge test and a vision screening and may be required to pass a road test. Test results are valid for two years. Safety Pledge to Nikhil In August of 2015, “Nikhil’s Law,” which amends N.J.S.A. 39:3-41, was signed into law. Enacted March 1, 2016, Nikhil’s Law reinforces the dangers of failing to comply with New Jersey’s motor vehicle traffic laws. THE PLEDGE To ensure the safety of others on the road, passengers in my car, and myself as a driver, I pledge to obey traffic rules when driving and to be extra cautious and supremely attentive. Specifically, I will: STOP COMPLETELY. I will come to a complete halt at any STOP sign and will never go through a red light. STAY ALERT. I will strive to keep my hands on the wheel and my mind on the road. TALK SAFE. I will use a hands-free cell phone system while driving and will not text or use a handset unless I pull over. PLAN AHEAD. I will give myself an extra 5 minutes to get to any destination. STOP FOR NIKHIL SAFETY PLEDGE. Go to www.state.nj.us/mvc/license/nikhil.htm to take the Pledge.  Page NEW JERSEY DRIVER TESTING 33 Voter Registration If you are eligible to vote in New Jersey, the process of registering to vote can be conveniently started at any MVC Licensing Center, while applying for or renewing a driver license or non-driver identification (ID) card. The MVC will report the information to the New Jersey Division of Elections. Voter registration deadline is 21 days before an election. If you will not be conducting a driver license or non-driver ID card transaction and wish to register to vote or change your address with the Division of Elections, please visit the New Jersey Division of Elections at www.njelec- tions.org or call 1-877-NJVOTER (1-877-658-6837) to have an application mailed to you. UPDATE YOUR VOTING ADDRESS You may change your address online through the MVC website. After you change your address with the MVC, you will be asked whether you would like your address change to update your voter record. Be sure to click “Yes” when answering this question, and the MVC will send a notice to the Division of Elections, notifying them of your change. An address change confirmation page will also be provided to you at the end of the transaction. Please visit www.njelections.org for more voter information. Your County Commissioner of Registration will notify you if your appli- cation is accepted. If it is not accepted, you will be notified on how to complete and/or correct the application. Address changes reported online or via mail with the MVC are forwarded to the New Jersey Division of Elections. If you do not receive confirmation of the change, please contact your local Commissioner of Registration. A listing of Commissioners can be found at NJ DOS - Division of Elections - Register to Vote! Note: You are required by law to provide the Motor Vehicle Commission with your current NJ residential address. Address changes MUST be conducted online. If you would like a copy of your driver license or ID with the new residential address, you can order a replacement license after you have processed your address change.  Page 34 NEW JERSEY DRIVER TESTING Road Test After an applicant passes the knowledge test and vision screening and, if applicable, an approved behind-the-wheel course, the MVC will validate his/her permit so that he/she can practice driving. GDL permit holders under 21 years of age must have a minimum of six months supervised practice driving prior to a road test appointment. GDL permit holders, 21 years old and over, must have a minimum of three months supervised practice driving prior to a road test appointment. To make an appoint- ment for an initial road test or a retest, visit any MVC Licensing Center or schedule online at www.njmvc.gov. Appointments may not be made by phone. ROAD TEST CHECKLIST No practice driving is permitted on the test course or in the parallel parking area. Every road test applicant must bring all the items on this checklist to the road test site to take the test. Only ORIGINAL documents will be accepted. 6 points of ID. Validated permit (permit must be legible and cannot be laminated). Valid inspection sticker on vehicle or official “No Inspection Sticker Required” card, valid registration card and valid insurance ID card or electronic version for vehicle used for the test (unless covered by BPU or federal DOT regulations). 2 red GDL decals, properly mounted (if Graduated Driver License (GDL) requirements are applicable). A vehicle utilized for the road test must have unobstructed access to the foot brake or to the parking brake mounted to the right of the driver in a position accessible to the examiner. Autocycles cannot be used for the test.  Page NEW JERSEY DRIVER TESTING 35 Self-parking vehicles cannot be used for the test. All signals, brake lights, and windshield wipers on the vehicle must be in working order for the test. No rental cars are permitted unless the test applicant’s name is listed as a driver on the rental agreement. Applicant must be accompanied by a licensed driver. (The accompanying driver must hold a valid license to operate the type of vehicle for which the applicant has a permit, except for a moped.) Note: Vehicles registered out of state must comply with the laws of the motorist’s home state about insurance identification. ACCOMPANYING DRIVER REQUIREMENTS An applicant may drive a properly registered vehicle to the road test area. However, a licensed driver must always remain in the vehicle with the applicant. A vehicle may not be moved, even in the road test line, without a licensed driver in the vehicle. If the accompanying motorist is licensed in a state other than New Jersey, or has less than three years of driving experi- ence, he/she must drive the vehicle to the road test area. The MVC does not supply vehicles for road tests. Only MVC examiners are allowed in the vehicle when the test is administered. ELEMENTS OF THE ROAD TEST During the road test, an MVC examiner will ride with the applicant when he/ she drives in an off-road test area or on a public road course. The purpose of the road test is to make sure that the applicant understands the rules of the road and can drive safely. (See chart on next page.) If the applicant’s vehicle has a standard transmission, the examiner will ask the applicant to demonstrate his/her ability to correctly shift gears.  Page 36 NEW JERSEY DRIVER TESTING During the basic road test, the examiner will test the applicant on the following items: TEST IT PAGE Driving in reverse 54, 55 Following other vehicles 94, 95, 96 Nearing corners, intersections 65, 66, 67, 68 Parking (parallel) 57, 58, 59 Sitting properly (seat belt use) 40, 41 Starting a vehicle 48, 49, 50 Steering properly 51, 52 Stopping at signs 74, 75, 76, 77, 78, 79 Stopping smoothly 52, 53 Turning 55, 56, 72, 73, 74 Turning around 55, 56, 57 Using the horn 46 Yielding right-of-way 65, 66 If an applicant passes the road test, the examiner will issue an authorization for licensing. The permit, authorization, and 6 Points of ID Verification must be taken to an MVC Licensing Center to obtain a New Jersey driver license. The MVC will license a successful applicant for a Class D basic driver license or Class D license for a probationary driver if the applicant has never been licensed to drive a motor vehicle in this or any other state. The MVC will monitor his/her driving habits for one year. Reasons for Rejection Most applicants believe that their driving performance is the only criterion the examiner uses to grade their road test. However, the vehicle may be the cause for denial or failure of the road test. Some license applicants may not have the opportunity to take an initial road test because an examiner considers the vehicle unsuitable or unsafe for the test.  Page NEW JERSEY DRIVER TESTING 37 Here are some of the more common reasons the MVC rejects road test vehicles: Improper, expired or no inspection sticker Lack of examiner access to foot brake or parking brake Any defect or condition that affects the safe operation of the test vehicle, such as but not limited to: Poor brakes (pedal must not fade or go to the floorboard) Dashboard brake warning light on Parking brake, brake lights, or signal lights not working Unsafe tires (smooth, cut, badly worn) Vehicle interior is not in reasonably clean condition Vehicle failed inspection, and motorist does not bring the Vehicle Inspection Report issued by the inspection station to the road test area Fast engine idle (cannot judge speed control) Missing seat belts (seat belts are required on all vehicles manufactured after July 1, 1966) Tinting on driver and/or front door windows Missing rear-view mirrors – interior and/or driver door Broken or cracked window glass Passenger and/or driver’s door or window does not operate from the inside Additional items for motorcycles and moped tests only: Lack of equipment required by state regulations No helmet Unapproved goggles or face shield No bell or horn that can be heard 100 feet away See Motorcycle Manual (Chapter 10) for more specific information. Page 38 3 Driver Responsibility  Page DRIVER RESPONSIBILITY 39 Section Contents 40 Buckle up – New Jersey’s Seat Belt Law 41 Car Seats 42 Child Passenger Safety Law 43 Air Bags 45 Car Condition 47 Carbon Monoxide Poisoning 48 Starting a Parked Car 51 Steering 52 Stopping Distances 53 Proper Braking 54 Driving Signals 54 Driving in Reverse 55 Turning 57 Parking  Page 40 DRIVER RESPONSIBILITY Safe driving is the responsibility of all individuals who operate a vehicle on New Jersey roads. The rules of the road must always be obeyed, and laws must be strictly followed. A motorist must ensure the safety of all passen- gers who are riding in his/her vehicle and be mindful of the other motorists who share the road each day. Buckle up – New Jersey’s Seat Belt Law Under state law, the driver, and all passengers of a passenger vehicle (e.g., car, van, pickup truck, and SUV) must wear a seatbelt. The failure of a driver, front- seat passenger, and children under age 18 to wear a seatbelt is a primary offense. The driver is responsible for all passengers under age 18. Front-seat passengers 18 years of age and over are responsible for themselves. A police officer can stop a motorist solely for a violation of the seat belt law. Under a secondary law, all unbuckled back seat occupants 18 years of age and older may be issued a summons if the vehicle is stopped for another reason. Motorists with GDL permits or probationary licenses must use seat belts. Additionally, they must require all passengers seated anywhere in the vehicle to use seat belts. (N.J.S.A. 39:3-76.2f, 39:3-13, 39:3-13.2a, 39:3-13.4) The exemptions are any passenger vehicle manufactured before July 1, 1966, a passenger vehicle that is not required to be equipped with seat belt systems under federal law, or a physical or medical reason, verified in writing by a licensed physician, which makes the motorist or passenger unable to wear a seat belt. (N.J.S.A. 39:3-76.2g) The driver of a passenger vehicle including cars, vans, pickup trucks, and utility vehicles shall secure any passenger using a wheelchair in a properly adjusted and fastened wheelchair and occupant securement device. (N.J.S.A. 39:3-76.21) Seat belts can save a life and improve a motorist’s chances of surviving a crash by 60 percent. A motorist’s chances of surviving a crash are three to four times better if he/ she is wearing both a seat belt and a shoulder strap. Fastening a seat belt takes only three seconds and reduces the chances of death or injury. Seat belts help in many ways, for example: They keep motorists and passengers from being thrown from the vehicle in a crash. If a motorist/passenger is held in place, any injury may be less severe.  Page DRIVER RESPONSIBILITY 41 They slow a body down with the vehicle. If a vehicle hits something, the vehicle stops, but the person keeps going at the same speed that the vehicle was moving. Hitting the dashboard or windshield at 30 mph is like falling from the top of a three-story building. They keep a motorist/passenger from sliding on the seat during sudden stops and turns. Belts and straps also keep a motorist in position so he/ she can control the vehicle. TIPS FOR SEAT BELT SAFETY Buckle up with both lap and shoulder belts on every trip. (Air bags are supplemental protection for drivers.) Wear the lap belt under the abdomen and low across the hips. The shoulder portion should come over the collar bone, away from the neck, and cross over the breastbone. The shoulder belt in most new vehicles can be adjusted on the side pillar to improve fit. Know how to adjust the seat belts and how to release them if motorists/ passengers have to quickly get out of the vehicle. Buckle up if riding in the backseat; use center seat belts if those seats are used. Seat belts help prevent riders from falling forward. Never put more than one person in one belt. Car Seats Traffic crashes are a leading killer of children. When riding in a vehicle, children should be held in place by a restraint system that meets all Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards. Refer to the paragraph on Child Restraint Law. All child restraint systems built since January 1, 1981, must be designed to pass tough safety tests. These seats carry a label that gives the date of manufacture and reads, “This child restraint system conforms to all applica- ble Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards.” There are many types and styles of car seats. While some seats are designed to be used facing forward, once a child has reached the appropriate weight, an infant seat must never be faced forward. To do so would be extremely dangerous. Always check the label on a car seat to find out the size and weight of the child the seat is designed to protect.  Page 42 DRIVER RESPONSIBILITY Using the car seat every time a child rides in the vehicle – and using it correctly each time – is especially important for the safety of the child. Always read the instructions that come with the seat and follow them very carefully. Correct use of the car seat is the best protection a motorist can offer a child. For more information on child car seats, contact the Division of Highway Traffic Safety at (800) 422-3750 or visit www.njsaferoads.com. Child Passenger Safety Law The New Jersey child passenger safety law, N.J.S.A. 39:3-76.2a (a) to 39:3- 76.2a (d), states: Children under age eight who are less than 57 inches (4 feet, 9 inches) tall must ride in either: a) A federally approved forward facing child passenger restraint system that is equipped with a five-point harness in a rear seat of the motor vehicle. Once they outgrow the top height or weight recommendations made by the child passenger restraint system manufacturer, children must ride in a federally approved booster seat (in a rear seat of the motor vehicle), OR b)A federally approved booster seat (in a rear seat of the motor vehicle). Children under age four who weigh less than 40 pounds must ride: a) In a federally approved rear-facing child passenger restraint system that is equipped with a five-point harness in a rear seat of the motor vehicle. Once they outgrow the top height or weight recommenda- tions posted by the manufacturer of the child passenger restraint system, children must ride in a federally approved forward-facing child passenger restraint system that is equipped with a five-point harness in a rear seat of the motor vehicle, OR b)In a federally approved forward-facing child passenger restraint system that is equipped with a five-point harness in a rear seat of the motor vehicle. Children under age two and those who weigh less than 30 pounds must ride in a federally approved rear-facing child passenger restraint system that is equipped with a five-point harness.  Page DRIVER RESPONSIBILITY 43 All children under age eight must be seated in a rear seat. If there are no rear seats in the motor vehicle in which the children under age eight are riding, the children must be secured in a federally approved child passen- ger restraint system or booster seat in a front seat of the motor vehicle. However, children cannot be secured in a rear-facing child passenger restraint system in a front seat of any motor vehicle that is equipped with a passenger-side airbag that is not disabled or turned off. Failure to comply with this law can subject a person to a fine of not less than $50 nor more than $75, plus fees and court costs. (N.J.S.A. 39:3-76.2d) Note: A person operating an autocycle shall not permit a child to be a passenger in the autocycle if the child would be required to be secured in a child passenger restraint system, pursuant to N.J.S.A. 39:3-76.2a. Air Bags Air bags are standard equipment in almost all new vehicles and are designed to supplement seat belts in frontal crashes. Federal safety standards require that manufacturers equip all new passenger cars and light trucks with air bags. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, statistics show that from 1987 to 2015, frontal air bags saved 44,869 lives. Air bags inflate at speeds of up to 200 mph to protect adults in a front-end crash. An average-sized adult who is correctly belted is not likely to encoun- ter the air bag until it is fully inflated. When air bags are combined with lap/shoulder seat belts, they have saved many adult lives and prevented many injuries in motor vehicle crashes. However, air bags could seriously injure or kill children who are sitting in the front seat. In 1995, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) allowed cutoff switches in pickup trucks, sports cars, and autos with no backseat. In January 1998, it allowed repair shops and dealers to install the switches in vehicles after the appropriate application was made for people in these or the following categories: Driver and passenger-side air bags: For individuals with medical conditions when the risks of a deploying air bag exceed the risks of impacting the steering wheel, dashboard or windshield.  Page 44 DRIVER RESPONSIBILITY Driver-side air bags only: For individuals who cannot properly operate the vehicle and keep at least 10 inches between the center of the steering wheel and the center of the breastbone. Passenger-side air bags only: For individuals who must place infants in the front seat because the vehicle has no rear seat (e.g., a pickup truck) or the rear seat is too small to hold the child’s rear-facing seat, or the motorist must monitor the child’s medical condition; for individuals who must place children, 1 to 12 years old, in the front seat because the vehicle has no rear seat, or because the individual must transport more children than can be seated in the rear seat, or because the motorist must monitor the child’s medical condition. For more about an air bag on-off switch or for an application to request one, call NHTSA’s toll-free Auto Safety Hotline at (800) 424-9393. Information is also available online at www.nhtsa.gov. Children of any age are safest when they are belted properly in the back seat of a vehicle, especially when the vehicle is equipped with a passenger-side air bag. Other safety points: Always put an infant in a rear-facing infant child safety seat in the back seat of a vehicle with air bags. Always be sure that children 12 years old and younger ride in the backseat of the vehicle. Always make sure everyone is buckled up. A motorist can tell if his/her vehicle has an air bag by the words “air bag” or the letters “SRS” (supplemental restraint system) or “SIR” (supple- mental inflatable restraint) on the steering wheel and dashboard panel. Manufacturers also may mark the sun visors or the sides of the open-door frame with warning labels or enter a warning in the vehicle’s owner’s manual.  Page DRIVER RESPONSIBILITY 45 Car Condition It is the responsibility of all vehicle owners to ensure that their vehicles are in proper working condition. Always check your vehicle before driving and prevent problems with regular maintenance and care. BACKUP LIGHTS When driving in reverse, backup lights should be on. These must be checked to make sure they are in working order. Note: It is against New Jersey law (N.J.S.A. 39:3-52) to have any backup lights on while a vehicle is moving forward. BRAKES A motorist should be able to brake smoothly and quickly. If the vehicle pulls to one side when it stops or a motorist feels a taut pedal or hears an unusual squealing or grinding, the brakes must be checked. With conventional disc and drum brakes, a motorist should pump them gently after driving through water to test them and dry them out. If the brakes are hit hard, they could lock up. A motorist should be able to stop within 25 feet at 20 mph. This can be tried in an empty parking lot. Chalk marks can be made on the surface to see if the vehicle can stop within that distance. If a vehicle has an anti-lock braking system (ABS), the brakes can be tested by applying steady pressure to the brake pedal. A motorist should never pump an ABS or jerk the steering wheel when braking. On very soft surfaces, such as loose gravel or unpacked snow, an ABS system may lengthen stopping distance. In wet or slippery conditions, a motorist should still drive carefully, always keep a safe distance from the vehicle in front and maintain a speed consistent with the road conditions. BRAKE LIGHTS If a vehicle’s brake lights are not working, someone may crash into the vehicle from the back. A motorist should have someone help to check the brake lights. Replace broken light covers; they may cause glare that affects the motorist in back.  Page 46 DRIVER RESPONSIBILITY HEADLIGHTS Bright and dim lights must work and be properly aligned. A motorist can check them against a garage wall or on parked vehicles. Lights should be kept clean. If other motorists flash their lights while another motorist’s lights are on low beam, it could be that the lights are out of line. HORN A horn should not be overused, but a motorist should check it often to make sure it works. Use the horn to signal when passing, when coming out of a blind alley, curve, or driveway, or to warn another motorist of a potentially dangerous situation. STEERING On straight level roads, a vehicle should hold a straight course. The front end should not vibrate (shimmy). The steering should respond to a motorist’s turns without too much play in the steering wheel. TAILLIGHTS Always keep tail and side lights in working order. They signal other motorists in the dark and prevent crashes. TIRES If a motorist feels or hears any unusual thumping while driving, he/she should check the tires. Bumps, cuts or bad tread can cause blowouts. Tire pressure should be checked often, especially when tires are cold. A motorist should check the owner’s manual or the door jamb of the driver’s door to determine proper tire pressure or should ask for advice at a service station. Properly inflated tires save money in fuel consumption. A vehicle should not be driven with tires that have less than 1/16 inch of tread (about the edge of a penny). To hold on to the road properly, tires must match (do not mix radials with other tire types) and must have enough tread. TURN SIGNALS A motorist should be able to hear the clicking and see the lighted arrows of turn signals flash on the dashboard. If the turn signals do not work, they must be fixed as soon as possible. A motorist should use hand signals until the turn signals are repaired.  Page DRIVER RESPONSIBILITY 47 WINDSHIELD Cracks or chips in a windshield could cause the windshield to break, causing a dangerous condition. Broken windshields should be repaired, or, if appropriate, replaced. A windshield should always be clean, inside and out. Windshield wipers should always work. A motorist can use non-freezing spray to stop windshield icing. New Jersey law prohibits add-on tinting on windshields and front side windows. (N.J.S.A 39:3-74) SNOW AND ICE State law (N.J.S.A. 39:4-77.1) requires a motorist to remove snow or ice from a vehicle before driving it. If snow or ice dislodges from a moving vehicle, it could strike another vehicle or pedestrian, causing injury or property damage. A motorist is required to make all reasonable efforts to remove accumulated ice or snow from the exposed surfaces of his or her motor vehicle prior to driving it, including the hood, trunk, roof, and windshield. Any person who violates this law is subject to fines of $25 to $75, regardless of whether any snow or ice is dislodged from the vehicle. If dislodged snow or ice causes injury or property damage, fines up to $1,500 may be assessed. Carbon Monoxide Poisoning The Rosa-Bonilla Family Act (N.J.S.A. 39:3-10, N.J.S.A. 39:3-41, N.J.S.A. 39:3- 12.6) requires the Motor Vehicle Commission to educate motorists about the dangers of carbon monoxide poisoning from motor vehicles and techniques for the safe operation and proper maintenance of a motor vehicle. Carbon monoxide (CO) is an odorless, colorless gas that is present in a vehicle’s exhaust. Modern vehicles are equipped with pollution controls that greatly reduce the amount of CO that is emitted from the tailpipe. However, certain conditions can cause dangerous levels of CO to accumulate in or around a vehicle, with potentially fatal results. These conditions can include: Operating a vehicle with an exhaust leak or poorly tuned engine. Operating a vehicle with the trunk or rear tailgate open.  Page 48 DRIVER RESPONSIBILITY Operating a vehicle with holes in the body of the vehicle. Idling a vehicle in a garage or confined space, even with the outside garage door open. Operating a vehicle with a tailpipe that is blocked by debris, including snow, leaves or water. Some of the most common symptoms of CO poisoning are listed below. It is important to understand that CO can kill even before any of these symptoms are noticed: Headache Dizziness Loss of consciousness Nausea/vomiting Chest pain Confusion If you suspect that someone is suffering from CO poisoning, it is important to immediately remove that person from the source of the CO and call 911 for immediate medical attention. If you are in a vehicle, turn off the engine, get out of the vehicle as soon as it is safe to do so and try to get the victim to breathe fresh air while you wait for help. Starting a Parked Car Before getting into a vehicle, look both behind it and in front of it. There are blind spots once a motorist is behind the wheel. Children may be there. There also may be bottles, cans, bicycles, or other things that cannot be seen from the driver’s seat. STARTING CHECKLIST All windows should be clean, and nothing should block a motorist’s vision.  Page DRIVER RESPONSIBILITY 49 AREA OF FORWARD BLIND VISION AREA LEFT SIDE MIRROR AREA OF REAR VIEW BLIND MIRROR AREA VISION RIGHT SIDE Blind spots MIRROR while driving The seat must be adjusted so a motorist can reach all pedals and controls easily. (For most motorists, the seat may be adjusted so he/she is sitting an arm’s length from the steering wheel). Inside and outside rearview mirrors should be adjusted. Seat belts and shoulder harnesses should be fastened so that they are firm and comfortable. The vehicle should be in park or neutral gear and the parking brake should be set. Doors should be locked. A motorist should keep good posture while driving. The seat should be adjusted so that the motorist can reach the foot pedals easily. The motorist should be comfortable behind the wheel. He/she should not have to strain to reach the gearshift levels, turn signals or dashboard controls. A motorist is properly positioned when he/she can see clearly and can glance to the rear. If a motorist wears glasses, he/she should adjust them. More than 95 percent of the information a motorist needs is visual. To fight glare at night, colored lenses should be avoided as they distort color. Anti-reflective coatings should be used on lenses.  Page 50 DRIVER RESPONSIBILITY This will help eliminate internal reflections in eyeglasses and may help night driving. A motorist should have an eye checkup every two years. As a motorist ages, visual clarity declines and peripheral vision becomes less distinct. For example, a 60-year-old perceives light about a third as well as a 20-year-old. Inside and outside mirrors should be adjusted to reduce blind spots. These are areas where a motorist cannot see behind his/her vehicle (on both sides) through the mirror. A motorist can check this by turning his/her head. The outside mirror should be adjusted so that the motorist can see the tip of the driver-side front door handle in the lower right of the mirror. This will allow the motorist to see part of the lanes of traffic to the left and rear the vehicle. After starting the engine, a motorist should make sure his/her path is clear by turning and looking back. A motorist should not depend on rearview mirrors. A motorist must also be sure to check for pedestrians and less conspicuous vehicles, such as bicycles and mopeds. A motorist should give the proper signal and drive with caution. When on the road, a motorist can check the vehicle’s mirrors by letting a vehicle pass on the left. As the passing vehicle disappears from the inside rear view mirror, a motorist should be able to see its front bumper in the outside rear view mirror. IDLING YOUR VEHICLE New Jersey law requires all motorists to restrict vehicle idling to three minutes or less. (N.J.A.C. 7:27-15.8) Idling more than three minutes is unnecessary and harmful to your vehicle and your health. Vehicle and property owners face fines of $250 to $1,000 for each violation of this law. (N.J.S.A. 39:3-70.2) There are some specific situations in which a vehicle may idle for an extend- ed time, such as when stuck in traffic, or at drive-thru establishments. See www.StopTheSoot.org for a complete listing of exemptions. So do not forget: Idling stinks and it’s against the law – turn the key and be idle free!  Page DRIVER RESPONSIBILITY 51 Steering HAND POSITION A motorist’s grip on the steering wheel is important. The steering wheel can be thought of as the face of a clock. For normal driving, a motorist should grip the steering wheel by the outside rim at the 9 and 3 o’clock positions, keeping his/her thumbs along the face of the wheel. Gripping the steering wheel as described diminishes the