Getting your probationary license at 17 in New Jersey is an exciting step toward driving independence, but it comes with specific responsibilities and limitations. You can legally drive with one passenger, but you must follow rules such as passenger limits, curfew hours and a zero-tolerance policy for electronic device use and alcohol.
Knowing and following these rules helps you stay safe, avoid fines and stay on track to earn your unrestricted basic license.
Probationary license rules for 17-year-olds in New Jersey
In New Jersey, 17-year-olds with a probationary driver’s license must follow specific rules under the state’s Graduated Driver License (GDL) program. These rules help new drivers gain experience behind the wheel.
Key restrictions for probationary license holders:
- Passenger restrictions: You can have only one passenger in the car unless you’re with a parent or guardian or the other passengers are your dependents.
- Supervision rule: If you have a parent or guardian in the front seat, you can have more than one passenger. The supervising adult should be at least 21 years old and have held a valid license for at least three years.
- Night-time driving: Any driver with a probationary license cannot drive between 11 p.m. and 5 a.m.
- Electronic devices: Using handheld or hands-free cell phones or any electronic device while driving is prohibited.
- Seat belts: All passengers must wear seat belts, and the driver is responsible for ensuring everyone is buckled up.
The probationary license is valid for at least 12 months. After completing this period without any violations, you may apply for a basic, unrestricted license at age 18.
How long does the probationary license period last?
Under New Jersey law, all new drivers must hold a probationary license for at least 12 consecutive months before upgrading to an unrestricted basic license. During this period, you’ll be asked to practice unsupervised driving. However, you must still follow all GDL restrictions, including curfew hours, passenger limits, decal display, no use of electronics and mandatory seat belt use for all.
Can a 17-year-old drive at night with a probationary license?
A 17-year-old holding a New Jersey probationary license may drive at night until 11 p.m. and may start driving again at 5:01 a.m. Employment or religious reasons are the only allowable excuses. The driver must carry a signed letter on official letterhead that states the need to travel during the curfew hours.
Outside that six-hour curfew window, the 17-year-old may drive as long as all other GDL rules are followed.
What happens if you break the GDL rules in New Jersey?
Violating any of New Jersey’s Graduated Driver License (GDL) rules, such as driving after 11 p.m., using your phone while driving, not wearing seat belts or not displaying the red decals, results in a $100 fine for each offense.
You must display red reflective decals on your vehicle’s front and back license plates. These help law enforcement identify probationary drivers.
If you’re on a probationary license in New Jersey and get two or more moving violations that add up to four or more points, you’ll be required to enroll in a probationary driver program provided by New Jersey licensed providers. This four-hour classroom program helps new drivers improve unsafe driving habits.
You’ll first receive a fee due notice, which includes a $75 administrative fee payable to the MVC. After that, you’ll need to schedule a class and pay a separate training fee to the provider. Upon completing the program, up to three points may be removed from your driving record.
To qualify for a basic, unrestricted license, you must complete 12 consecutive months with a probationary license without any GDL violations.
Tips for safe driving as a teen in New Jersey
Here are some safe driving tips if you’re on a probationary license in New Jersey.
- Make sure everyone in the vehicle wears a seat belt, including the front and back seats.
- Keep your focus on the road. Avoid texting, eating or playing loud music while driving.
- Watch out for other drivers, and don’t assume they’ll follow the rules.
- Keep a safe distance from the car in front of you, and be extra cautious in bad weather.
- Spend time driving with a parent or experienced adult to build your confidence and driving skills in different conditions.
- Regularly check tires, brakes, lights and gas. A well-maintained car is safer to drive.
Final thoughts
The GDL restrictions aim to reduce distractions and help new drivers gain experience in a safer, more controlled environment. Teens and their guardians need to understand and follow these rules, as any violation can lead to fines, delays in getting a basic license and even mandatory enrollment in a driver improvement program.
Learn more about driving out of state with a New Jersey probationary license
Resources & Methodology
Sources:
- New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission. “Graduated Driver License.” Accessed May 2025.
- New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission. “First Driver License/ID.” Accessed May 2025.
- New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission. “Driver Programs.” Accessed May 2025.
Get advice from an experienced insurance professional. Our experts will help you navigate your insurance questions with clarity and confidence.
Browse all FAQs