Paterson New Jersey Online Driver Education and Paterson New Jersey Licensing Procedures
So you've taken your first step towards becoming a new driver in Paterson New Jersey? Congratulations!
As you probably already know, driving is a valuable skill, but can also be extremely dangerous. Therefore, to help new teen drivers develop safe driving habits during their first few years behind the wheel, the State of Paterson New Jersey has implemented a graduated driver license program for Paterson New Jersey drivers who are under the age of 18.
We’ve summarized a few things you’ll need to know as you begin the process of becoming a licensed driver in Paterson New Jersey.
Paterson New Jersey Instruction Permit (aks--Learner's Permit)
When you turn 16, you may apply for an instruction permit provided you are enrolled in a state-approved drivers education course.
When you're ready to get your permit, head down to the local MVC office and bring the following materials:
- A valid form of ID (Birth certificate, U.S. passport, or citizenship certificate)
- Proof of enrollment in a state-approved drivers ed course
- A signed letter of consent from your parent/guardian
- Money for the license processing fee
At the local MVC office, you will first be given a vision screening exam and then a written (knowledge) test, based on material covered in the MVC Driver Manual.
With an instruction permit, the following restrictions apply:
- You may only drive if you have a licensed driver (with at least 3 years' experience) actively supervising your driving from the front passenger seat.
- No driving between the hours of 11pm and 5am
- Only 1 non-family passenger is permitted to ride with you
- No cell phones or other electronic devices may be used while you are driving
Paterson New Jersey Provisional License
When you turn 17, you may apply for your provisional license so long as you've had a clean driving record with your instruction permit.
Go back down to the local MVC office with your instructional permit plus the same ID documents you took the last time. You'll need to take a road test this time, and if you pass, you will be issued a provisional driver's license.
With a provisional license, some restrictions still apply:
- No driving between the hours of 12 midnight and 5am unless it's job-related or a school-sponsored activity, or a family emergency
- Only 1 non-family passenger may ride with you
- No cell phones or other electronic devices may be used while you are driving
When you turn 18, you may go back to the local MVC office and receive your full, unrestricted license.
New Jersey Auto Insurance/Liability Coverage Laws
The State of Paterson New Jersey requires that you maintain a certain amount of liability coverage on any vehicle you drive. The minimum required coverage is as follows:
- $15,000--personal injury (1 person) per accident
- $10,000--personal injury (2 or more persons) per accident
- $5,000--property damage
- $250,000--for permanent of significant injury
Driving while uninsured is a crime! If you drive without the required insurance coverage, you will face having your license suspended, plus a hefty fine.
Paterson New Jersey Drunk Driving Laws
Drinking while under the influence of alcohol is strictly prohibited in Paterson New Jersey, and the law is strictly enforced.
Upon your FIRST Paterson New Jersey DUI conviction, you will face the following penalties:
- 30 days in jail
- A fine ranging from $250 to $400
- 3-month suspension of your license
- Enrollment in a driver intervention program
- Installment of an ignition interlock device on your vehicle
- DUI fees of $525 minimum
- A $1,000 surcharge on your auto insurance for 3 years
- Enrollment in an Intoxicated Driver Resource Center program, twice a week, 6 hours per day
Paterson New Jersey Cell Phone & Text-Messaging Laws
Paterson New Jersey law currently prohibits teen-aged drivers from using cell phones (except hands-free ones) or any other electronic devices while they are driving.
Currently, Paterson New Jersey teen drivers are prohibited from using cell phones while driving unless you have a hands-free device. The fine is $100-$200.
Paterson New Jersey Online Driver Education
Paterson New Jersey teen drivers can find more information on approved Paterson New Jersey online driver education courses on the Paterson New Jersey MVC website.