Getting a driving license is an important goal for many teenagers. Unlike some states where you can get a full license at 16, New Jersey operates a graduated driver’s license program (GDL), which means drivers will still face restrictions until age 21.
As frustrating as it might seem to a young driver, these things are done in the name of safety and aim to help teens gradually build up their driving experience gradually and safely. Remember that those between 16 and 19 have the singular highest crash rate of any age group and males of that age are at particular risk.
Why the restriction on nighttime driving?
New Jersey does not let under-21s drive between the hours of 11.01 pm and 05.00 am. Exceptions can be applied if a driver needs to get to or from work or religious events. The reason for this is that the risk of a crash is higher at night. It’s harder to see and be seen and the chance of encountering a drunk or drugged driver (or of a teen driving under the influence themself) is higher.
Why the restriction on passengers
It is not permitted for a teen to drive with a car full of friends as they might like. This is because passengers can be very distracting, especially if those passengers are of the same peer group.
Why no hands-free phone use?
Electronic device use is totally forbidden, as even hands-free operations can be distracting. They still occupy your mind even if they don’t occupy your hands.
Why the obligatory GDL plates?
Graduated driver licensing (GDL) plates alert other road users to the fact that the driver lacks experience. Hopefully, they will take more caution around them, but some do not and could provoke a collision. If this happens, they may claim it was your fault as you lack experience. Seeking help to show you complied with the laws and identify the other driver’s errors may be crucial to getting the compensation you need.