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New Jersey MVC Permit Test — Study Guide & Cheat Sheet (2026)
The most important facts, rules, and numbers you need to know for the NJ knowledge test — all in one place.
Updated for March 2026 · Based on NJ Driver Manual
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Speed Limits
| Zone / Road Type | Speed Limit |
|---|---|
| School zone (when children present) | 25 mph |
| Residential / business district | 25 mph |
| Non-posted local roads | 25 mph |
| County / state highways | 50 mph |
| NJ Turnpike / Garden State Pkwy | 65 mph |
| Posted interstate highways | Up to 65 mph |
Always obey posted signs — they override defaults.
Alcohol & BAC Limits
| Driver | Legal BAC Limit |
|---|---|
| Adults (21+) | Under 0.08% |
| Under 21 (GDL) | 0.01% — virtually zero tolerance |
| Commercial drivers (CDL) | Under 0.04% |
DUI Consequences (first offense):
- License suspension (3 months – 1 year)
- Fine up to $400
- Ignition interlock device required
- Possible jail time up to 30 days
Right-of-Way Rules
- 4-way stop: First to arrive goes first. Tie? Driver on the right goes first.
- Uncontrolled intersection: Yield to traffic already in the intersection.
- T-intersection: Traffic on the dead-end road yields to traffic on the through road.
- Roundabout: Yield to traffic already in the circle before entering.
- Turning left: Always yield to oncoming traffic and pedestrians.
- Emergency vehicles: Pull to the right and stop when lights/sirens are on.
- School bus (flashing red): Stop — both directions on undivided roads.
- Pedestrians in crosswalk: Always yield — they have the right-of-way.
Following Distance & Safety
- Normal conditions: 3-second following distance minimum
- Bad weather / night: 4–6 seconds
- Behind large trucks: At least 4 seconds
- Hydroplaning: Ease off the gas — do not brake hard
- Skidding: Steer in the direction you want to go — do not over-correct
- Headlights on when: Wipers in use, visibility under 500 ft, sunset to sunrise
- Seat belts: Required for ALL occupants in NJ — front and back seats
Road Sign Colors & Shapes
| Color | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Red | Stop, Yield, Prohibition |
| Yellow | Warning / Caution |
| White | Regulatory (rules) |
| Green | Guide / Directions |
| Orange | Construction / Work Zone |
| Blue | Services (gas, food, hospital) |
| Brown | Recreation / Historic Sites |
| Yellow-Green | School / Pedestrian zones |
NJ-Specific Laws to Know
- Cell phone: Handheld devices prohibited for ALL drivers. GDL drivers: no hands-free either.
- Move Over Law: Move over one lane (or slow to 25 mph) for stopped emergency vehicles on the shoulder.
- GDL night restriction: Permit holders — no driving 11:01 PM to 5:00 AM.
- GDL passengers: Only 1 passenger under 21 (unless accompanied by a parent/guardian).
- Aggressive driving: Tailgating, weaving, and road rage are criminal offenses in NJ.
- Headsets: Wearing a headset covering both ears while driving is prohibited.
Parking Rules
- Fire hydrant: No parking within 10 feet
- Intersection / crosswalk: No parking within 25 feet
- Stop sign: No parking within 50 feet
- Driveway: Never block a driveway
- Handicap space: Only with valid permit displayed
- Parallel parking: Within 6 inches of the curb
Key Numbers to Memorize
| Rule | Number |
|---|---|
| Passing score (knowledge test) | 40/50 (80%) |
| Minimum age for permit | 16 years old |
| Minimum age for full license | 18 years old |
| Adult BAC limit | 0.08% |
| Under-21 BAC limit | 0.01% |
| CDL BAC limit | 0.04% |
| Hydrant no-park distance | 10 feet |
| Intersection no-park distance | 25 feet |
| Stop sign no-park distance | 50 feet |
| Following distance (normal) | 3 seconds |
Now Test What You've Studied
Our free NJ practice tests cover all these topics — road signs, laws, speed limits, and more.
Take Mini Test Take Full Test (50 Questions)Printed from DriveCar.org · Free NJ Permit Practice Tests · Updated March 2026