Photo: Zeete, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
If you move to New Jersey with a license from another US state, you must apply for a New Jersey license within 60 days of becoming a resident, or before your old license expires if that is sooner. Drivers 18 and over with a valid, non-provisional US license usually only need a vision test. Foreign license holders can drive on their license for up to a year, but must pass the knowledge and vision tests to get a New Jersey license and may also need a road test.
Key facts
- Deadline for new residents: 60 days, or when your out-of-state license expires, whichever comes first (30 days for a CDL).
- Out-of-state license, 18+: knowledge and road tests may be waived; vision test required.
- Out-of-state license, 17: you get a one-year probationary license and follow New Jersey GDL rules.
- Foreign license: drive on it for up to 1 year; to convert, pass the knowledge and vision tests, and possibly a road test.
- Your old license is surrendered when the New Jersey license is issued.
Transferring a US out-of-state license to New Jersey
| Your situation | What happens |
|---|---|
| 18+, valid non-provisional license from a US state, DC, Puerto Rico, Guam, American Samoa or the US Virgin Islands | Knowledge and road tests may be waived. You get a 4-year basic license. |
| 17 to 18, valid out-of-state license | One-year probationary license; New Jersey GDL rules and restrictions apply. |
| Under 18 with a permit or no license | You join New Jersey’s GDL program as a new driver. |
| License expired less than 1 year ago | Book an out-of-state transfer appointment (MVC FAQ). |
| License expired more than 1 year ago | Start over as a first-time driver (MVC FAQ). |
A certified driver abstract from your previous state can also be used, according to the manual. An out-of-state non-driver ID does not count as proof toward a New Jersey Standard license.
Steps for a US transfer
- Book an out-of-state transfer appointment on the MVC appointment site.
- Bring 6 Points of ID, proof of your New Jersey address and your Social Security number (or ITIN or affidavit). Your out-of-state photo license counts as a primary ID document.
- Buy an examination permit and pass the vision test (20/50).
- Surrender your old license and receive a temporary license. The new card is mailed.
- Within one week of any later move, update your address with the MVC.
For how license transfers work across the US, see transferring your license to another state.
Driving in New Jersey on a foreign license
Under N.J.A.C. 13:21-8.2(f), a motorist with a valid license from another country may drive with it for up to a year. The MVC first-time driver FAQ adds that visitors should carry an International Driving Permit (IDP) issued in their previous country of residence. The manual says visitors should carry an IDP or an acceptable English translation of their license, and that an IDP must be obtained in your home country before you travel. An IDP never replaces your license; it must be carried with it.
More on visiting and swapping: driving in the US on a foreign license.
Converting a foreign license to a New Jersey license
- All out-of-country applicants must pass the knowledge test and vision screening.
- You may also be required to pass the road test.
- Test results are valid for 2 years.
- A foreign photo driver license can count toward your 6 Points of ID, but only if presented with another government-issued document.
- Documents not in English need a certified translation.
The manual does not list which countries’ licenses are excused from the road test. Ask the MVC at your appointment whether yours is.
Preparing for the tests
Even experienced drivers fail on New Jersey specifics. Read the New Jersey knowledge test guide for the test format and languages, and the New Jersey road test guide in case a road test is required. You must bring your own car and an accompanying licensed driver to a road test.
Common questions
How long do I have to switch to a New Jersey license?
60 days after becoming a resident, or before your current license expires if that is sooner.
Do I have to retake the driving test when I move to NJ from another state?
Usually not, if you are 18+ with a valid, non-provisional US license. You do take a vision test.
I am 17 with a full license from another state. What do I get?
A one-year New Jersey probationary license, with New Jersey GDL rules such as the curfew and passenger limit.
Can I drive in New Jersey with my UK, Indian or other foreign license?
Yes, for up to a year, with an International Driving Permit or acceptable English translation. To get a New Jersey license you must pass the knowledge and vision tests and may need a road test.
Can I keep my old state license too?
No. You must surrender it when New Jersey issues your license.
Back to the complete New Jersey learner guide. If you are 21+ and starting fresh, see getting a first New Jersey license as an adult.
Sources
- New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission, “New Jersey Driver Manual 2026” (nj.gov)
- New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission, “Frequently Asked Questions: First-Time NJ Drivers” (nj.gov)
- New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission, “6 Points of ID” (nj.gov)
- New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission, “Vision Test” (nj.gov)