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A new law in New Jersey mandates that student drivers under 21 must complete 50 hours of supervised driving practice before obtaining a probationary driver's license. The law, signed by Governor Phil Murphy in January 2024, took effect on Sunday (February 1). It requires that ten of these hours be completed at night, and a parent or guardian must sign a form certifying the completion of the required hours.
The New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission (NJMVC) will enforce this requirement for learners' permits issued on or after February 1. According to NJ.com, the law aims to provide young drivers with more experience and reduce crash rates among teens. Last year, 30 of the 335 drivers killed in fatal crashes in New Jersey were between the ages of 17 and 20.
Latrecia Littles-Floyd, acting MVC Chief Administrator, stated, "More practice leads to safer, more capable drivers, which leads to safer roads for all." The law is part of New Jersey's Graduated Driver License program, which seeks to enhance road safety by ensuring young drivers gain adequate experience before driving independently.
The MVC will begin processing the Certification of Supervised Driving forms in August, as permit holders must wait at least six months from the date their permit is issued before taking a road test. This new requirement does not apply to those with permits issued before February 2025 or to drivers over 21.
New Jersey's adoption of this requirement leaves Arkansas and Mississippi as the only states without a similar law. While some advocate for 70 hours of practice, the current law is seen as a significant step forward in improving young driver safety.