Drivers Education
What is Driving School/Driver’s Ed?
In New Jersey, there are two types of driving class options. The
first is required – you need the 6-hour course with on-the-road
training to get a validated driving permit. After that, you must spend
six months practicing your driving. You can do so with a parent, but
many teens opt to take a professional New Jersey driving class.
Who is Required to Complete It?
You are eligible for a driving permit when you reach the age of 16.
At this point, you need to take the 6-hour New Jersey driving class in
order to get your permit. Afterwards, you have to practice driving for
at least six months. While driving classes aren’t required, as long as
you spend time with a supervising, responsible driver, they are highly
recommended. Some high schools have teen driving classes as part of
their curriculum, which students must complete to pass their sophomore
or junior year.
If you’re 17 or older, you are not required to take the 6-hour driving
course. To get your license, you just have to pass the written test. If
you are 21 or older, you still have to get a permit, but can take the
on-the-road test after three months instead of six.
What Agency Regulates It?
New Jersey driver’s ed is regulate by the New Jersey Motor Vehicle
Commission, or MVC. This organization can provide a list of vendors to
you if your high school does not offer certified New Jersey driver’s
education courses.
Who Teaches It?
New Jersey driving schools are not all licensed by the state. If you
are under 17, the New Jersey driving class you take to fulfill your
6-hour class requirement must be state-approved. If you choose to take
a professional driver’s ed course afterwards, going with a school that
is approved by the state is usually the best option, but not
required.
To be approved by the state of New Jersey, a driving school has to be
taught by certified instructors. These instructors are required to
complete training and pass written driving tests, on-the-road driving
tests, and teaching tests. If you take a New Jersey teen driving class
through a state-approved school, you can be rest assured that you’re
working with a professional.
Instructor Requirements
In order to become a certified New Jersey driving school instructor,
you must complete the following requirements:
- Pass a written driving information test
- Pass an on-the-road, practical driving test
- Pass a judgment of driving test
- Pass a vision test
- Submit your fingerprints and an application with personal information
- Complete a 6-8 hour course with the National Safety Defensive Driving Program
- Be 21, with at least four years of driving experience
New Jersey Driving School
New Jersey driving schools are available in every county in the
state. Many teens can take such classes through their high schools.
However, you can also look for a private driving school. The New Jersey
MVC can give you list of accredited schools in your area, as well as
direct you to online driving schools you may want to consider.
