To help keep the state's roads as safe as possible, New Jersey's Graduated Driver License Program places a number of restrictions on new drivers. First-time drivers, regardless of age, must progress through a series of steps in order to earn a full license with unrestricted driving privileges.

New Jersey drivers with a learners permit must wear seatbelts at all times and cannot use cell phones or hand held electronic devices while driving. Teen drivers age 16-17 with a student permit are not allowed to drive between 11:01 p.m. and 5 a.m. or carry more than one passenger from outside their household. Drivers ages 17-21 with an examination permit are not allowed to drive between 12:01 a.m. and 5 a.m. or carry more than one passenger from outside their household. Drivers ages 21 have no time or passenger restrictions associated with their permit.

A provisional license is the next step in the New Jersey Graduated Driver License Program. The same cell phone and electronic device restrictions that apply to permit holders are also applicable to the provisional license. The provisional license allows you to drive unsupervised, but no driving is allowed between 12:01 a.m. and 5 a.m. and only one additional person from outside your household is allowed in the vehicle unless you are 21 years of age or older.

After a driver has held a provisional license to practice unsupervised driving for at least one year, he is eligible to receive a full NJ driver license. To receive the license, he must visit a DMV office with his provisional license, proof of identity, and payment for the drivers license application fee.