New Jersey DMV practice test
53 practice questions written from the official handbook, New Jersey Driver Manual, 2026. The mock test asks 50 questions and needs 40 correct, like the real test.
Practice questions written from the official handbook; not affiliated with the state DMV.
examprepare.help wrote this study aid. The New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission did not write or review it, and your real test may differ.
Practice shows the right answer and the handbook page after every question.The mock test asks 50 questions and needs 40 correct to pass.
The real New Jersey test
The MVC sample knowledge test page says a general knowledge exam at a testing centre has 50 questions and that a passing score is 80 percent, or 40 of the 50 correct.
Rule source: New Jersey MVC, Sample Knowledge Test.
Official handbook
New Jersey Driver Manual
Read the handbook (PDF, New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission) or the handbook page on the agency site.
We read this edition on 2026-10-05. Handbooks change. Check that your copy is the current one.
Key numbers from the handbook
| Rule | Value | Page |
|---|---|---|
| How long a New Jersey licence or ID card stays valid | Four years | 6 |
| Default speed in a school zone, business or residential district | 25 mph | 62 |
| Maximum speed on a non-posted rural roadway | 50 mph | 62 |
| Maximum speed on certain state highways, as posted, and on interstates | 55 mph | 62 |
| Maximum speed on certain interstate highways, as posted | 65 mph | 62 |
| When fines double for speeding in a 65 mph zone | When you exceed the 65 mph limit by 10 mph or more | 62 |
| Rule of thumb for following distance | One car length (about 20 feet) for each 10 mph of speed | 94 |
| Following-distance rule that works at any speed | The three-seconds-plus rule | 95 |
| Following interval to use in bad weather | Four or more seconds | 95 |
| BAC that is illegal for most drivers | 0.08% or higher | 115 |
| BAC that is illegal for a driver younger than 21 | 0.01% or higher | 115 |
| How much greater the crash risk is at a BAC of 0.15 percent | 25 times as great | 115 |
| How far before a railroad crossing you must stop when the warning devices are active | At least 15 feet | 76 |
| Speed at which hydroplaning starts on a wet road | About 35 mph | 97 |
| Where children under age eight must ride | In the rear seat | 43 |
| When headlights must be used | From one-half hour after sunset until one-half hour before sunrise | 83 |
| Visibility at which headlights must be used | 500 feet or less | 83 |
| How a motorist can test the brakes in an empty parking lot | Check that the vehicle stops within 25 feet at 20 mph | 45 |
| Points of identification every licence applicant must provide | 6 points | 5 |
| How soon you must report a move to the MVC | Within one week | 4 |
| How long a new resident has to get a New Jersey licence | 60 days, or 30 days for a CDL | 4 |
| Fine for driving a vehicle with snow or ice still on it | $25 to $75 | 129 |
| Fine for a first offence for carrying an open alcohol container in the passenger area | $200 | 129 |
Questions about the New Jersey test
How many questions are on the New Jersey DMV written test?
The real New Jersey knowledge test asks 50 questions. The MVC sample knowledge test page says a general knowledge exam at a testing centre has 50 questions and that a passing score is 80 percent, or 40 of the 50 correct.
How many questions do I need to pass the New Jersey written test?
You need 40 of 50 correct (80%) to pass.
Are these the real DMV test questions?
No. examprepare.help wrote these 53 practice questions from the official handbook, New Jersey Driver Manual, 2026. They are not the real test questions. Practice questions written from the official handbook; not affiliated with the state DMV. Check the New Jersey DMV website before you take the real test.
Which handbook are the questions from?
New Jersey Driver Manual, 2026, published by the New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission. Every answer cites the handbook section and page.
All 53 questions and answers
Read the bank before a mock test. Each answer names the handbook section and the printed page.
- 1.How long do New Jersey driver licences and non-driver ID cards stay valid?
Licenses and Permits
- Four years
The manual says licences and ID cards are valid for four years. Handbook: Enhanced Security and License Issuance Process, page 6.
- 2.How many points of identification must an applicant for a standard licence provide?
Licenses and Permits
- 6 points
A standard licence application needs 6 points of identification. Handbook: Laws Governing Driver Licenses, page 5.
- 3.Within what time must you report a change of address to the MVC?
Licenses and Permits
- Within one week of moving
A motorist who moves must report the change to the MVC within one week. Handbook: Laws Governing Driver Licenses, page 4.
- 4.A new resident with a valid out-of-state licence must apply for a New Jersey licence within:
Licenses and Permits
- 60 days, or 30 days for a CDL
The manual gives 60 days for a new resident and 30 days for a commercial driver licence. Handbook: Laws Governing Driver Licenses, page 4.
- 5.How old must you be to get a New Jersey driver examination permit?
Licenses and Permits
- 17
Any resident who is at least 17 and not in suspension can get an examination permit. Handbook: Examination Permits for New Jersey Residents, page 20.
- 6.For how long are New Jersey knowledge test and vision screening results valid?
Licenses and Permits
- Two years
The MVC validates an examination permit for two years. Handbook: Examination Permits for New Jersey Residents, page 20.
- 7.Who must wear a seat belt while you drive on a learner's permit?
Licenses and Permits
- The permit holder and all passengers
A permit holder and every passenger must wear a seat belt. Handbook: Graduated Driver License (GDL), page 18.
- 8.Why is an examination permit needed even if you already hold a valid licence from another state?
Licenses and Permits
- So the MVC can check your record before you practise
The manual states that an examination permit is required even for a driver with a valid out-of-state licence. Handbook: Examination Permits for New Jersey Residents, page 20.
- 9.Where must a child under age eight ride?
Driver Responsibility
- In the rear seat
All children under age eight must be seated in a rear seat. Handbook: Child Passenger Safety Law, page 43.
- 10.How fast can an air bag inflate?
Driver Responsibility
- Up to 200 mph
The manual says air bags inflate at speeds of up to 200 mph. Handbook: Air Bags, page 43.
- 11.What should you do if your brakes feel taut, squeal or grind?
Driver Responsibility
- Have the brakes checked
A taut pedal or an unusual squeal or grinding means the brakes must be checked. Handbook: Car Condition, page 45.
- 12.How can you test whether a vehicle stops in time, and what should the result be?
Driver Responsibility
- It should stop within 25 feet at 20 mph
The manual says a motorist should be able to stop within 25 feet at 20 mph and suggests trying it in an empty parking lot. Handbook: Brakes, page 45.
- 13.Why is it illegal to have your backup lights on while the vehicle moves forward?
Driver Responsibility
- It is against New Jersey law
The manual cites N.J.S.A. 39:3-52: backup lights may not be on while the vehicle moves forward. Handbook: Car Condition, page 45.
- 14.What is the default speed limit in a school zone, business or residential district in New Jersey?
Safe Driving Rules
- 25 mph
The speed control chart sets 25 mph for school zones, business and residential districts. Handbook: Speed Control, page 62.
- 15.What is the maximum speed on a non-posted rural roadway?
Safe Driving Rules
- 50 mph
The chart gives 50 mph on non-posted rural roadways. Handbook: Speed Control, page 62.
- 16.What is the maximum speed on certain state highways, as posted, and on interstates?
Safe Driving Rules
- 55 mph
The speed control chart gives 55 mph for certain state highways as posted and for interstates. Handbook: Speed Control, page 62.
- 17.What is the top posted speed on certain interstate highways?
Safe Driving Rules
- 65 mph
Certain interstate highways are posted at 65 mph. Handbook: Speed Control, page 62.
- 18.When do fines double in a New Jersey 65 mph zone?
Safe Driving Rules
- When you speed by 10 mph or more
Speeding 10 mph or more above the limit in a 65 mph zone means doubled fines. Handbook: Driver Privileges and Penalties, page 129.
- 19.Both centre lines are solid. What does that mean?
Safe Driving Rules
- No passing is allowed
Two solid centre lines mean passing is not allowed. Handbook: Passing, page 64.
- 20.On a highway with a weave lane, who must yield?
Safe Driving Rules
- The driver entering from the ramp
A motorist entering from the entrance ramp must yield to the motorist leaving the expressway. Handbook: Special Highway, Parkway, and Turnpike Conditions, page 70.
- 21.When may you turn right on a red light in New Jersey?
Safe Driving Rules
- After a full stop, unless a No Turn on Red sign is posted
A right turn on red is allowed after a full stop and checking for traffic, unless a sign forbids it. Handbook: Right Turn on Red, page 72.
- 22.How far before a railroad crossing must you stop when the lights are flashing or a gate is down?
Safe Driving Rules
- 15 feet
A motorist must stop at least 15 feet from a railroad crossing when the warning devices are active. Handbook: Stop at Railroad Crossings, page 76.
- 23.When must headlights be on in New Jersey?
Safe Driving Rules
- From one-half hour after sunset to one-half hour before sunrise
Headlights must be used from half an hour after sunset until half an hour before sunrise. Handbook: Using Headlights, page 83.
- 24.Headlights must also be used when visibility is:
Safe Driving Rules
- 500 feet or less
Headlights are also required when visibility is 500 feet or less. Handbook: Using Headlights, page 83.
- 25.At 50 mph, how far do you travel while blinded by an oncoming high beam?
Safe Driving Rules
- A football field
At 50 mph a motorist travels the length of a football field while unable to see. Handbook: Using Headlights, page 83.
- 26.What does New Jersey's Move Over law require?
Safe Driving Rules
- Changing lanes out of the lane next to a stationary hazard vehicle when conditions allow
The Move Over law requires motorists to move out of the lane next to a stationary vehicle, safety and traffic conditions permitting. Handbook: Move Over Law, page 78.
- 27.At an uncontrolled intersection, who normally yields?
Safe Driving Rules
- The vehicle on the left yields to the vehicle on the right
The basic rule at an uncontrolled intersection is that the vehicle on the left yields to the vehicle on the right. Handbook: Uncontrolled, page 68.
- 28.A motorist misses an exit ramp on a parkway. What should they do?
Safe Driving Rules
- Go to the next exit
A motorist who misses an exit ramp should go to the next exit. Handbook: Leaving Highways, Parkways, and Turnpikes, page 69.
- 29.What happens at a traffic signal that is dark because of a power failure?
Safe Driving Rules
- It is observed as a 4-way stop
When a signal is not illuminated because of a power failure, it is observed as a 4-way stop signal. Handbook: Uncontrolled, page 68.
- 30.Why should you not come to a complete stop in an acceleration lane?
Safe Driving Rules
- It blocks the lane and is dangerous
A motorist should speed up to the flow of traffic and avoid stopping in the acceleration lane. Handbook: Special Highway, Parkway, and Turnpike Conditions, page 69.
- 31.What is the usual rule of thumb for a safe following distance?
Defensive Driving
- One car length for each 10 mph of speed
The rule of thumb is one car length, about 20 feet, for each 10 mph of speed. Handbook: Keep a Safe Distance/Do Not Tailgate, page 94.
- 32.How does the three-seconds-plus rule work?
Defensive Driving
- Count the seconds until you reach a fixed object the vehicle ahead passed
You start counting when the vehicle ahead passes a fixed object and should take at least three seconds to reach it yourself. Handbook: Three Seconds-Plus Rule, page 95.
- 33.In bad weather, what interval should you use for following distance?
Defensive Driving
- Four or more seconds
The manual says to increase the interval to four or more seconds in bad weather. Handbook: Three Seconds-Plus Rule, page 95.
- 34.Stopping distance is the sum of:
Defensive Driving
- Perception, reaction and braking distance
Stopping distance equals perception distance plus reaction distance plus braking distance. Handbook: Three Seconds-Plus Rule, page 95.
- 35.At about what speed can hydroplaning start on a wet road?
Defensive Driving
- About 35 mph
Hydroplaning on a wet surface can start at about 35 mph. Handbook: Road Conditions, page 97.
- 36.What can happen after about 55 mph on a flooded road?
Defensive Driving
- Tyres may leave the road surface entirely
After 55 mph tyres may totally leave the road surface, and braking is then virtually impossible. Handbook: Road Conditions, page 97.
- 37.What should you do when your vehicle becomes disabled on the shoulder?
Defensive Driving
- Stay in the vehicle with your seat belt on and lock the doors
The manual says to stay in the vehicle, keep the seat belt on and lock the doors. Handbook: Disabled Vehicles, page 71.
- 38.At what BAC is it illegal for most New Jersey drivers to drive?
Alcohol and Drugs
- 0.08% or higher
It is illegal to drive with a BAC of 0.08 percent or higher. Handbook: How Much is Too Much, page 115.
- 39.At what BAC is it illegal for a driver younger than 21 to drive?
Alcohol and Drugs
- 0.01% or higher
For drivers younger than 21 it is illegal to drive with a BAC of 0.01 percent or higher. Handbook: How Much is Too Much, page 115.
- 40.How much greater is the crash risk at a BAC of 0.15 percent than for a sober driver?
Alcohol and Drugs
- Twenty-five times
The manual says the risk is 25 times as great at a BAC of 0.15 percent. Handbook: How Much is Too Much, page 115.
- 41.Which four factors set a driver's blood alcohol concentration?
Alcohol and Drugs
- Quantity, body weight, speed of drinking and food eaten
BAC depends on how much was drunk, body weight, how fast, and what was eaten. Handbook: How Much is Too Much, page 115.
- 42.What happens if you refuse a breath test in New Jersey?
Alcohol and Drugs
- Loss of driving privileges, IDRC referral, fines and an ignition interlock
Refusal is illegal and carries loss of driving privileges, an IDRC referral, fines and an interlock device. Handbook: How Much is Too Much, page 115.
- 43.Which driving behaviour can give away a driver who has been drinking?
Alcohol and Drugs
- Weaving, speeding, slow driving and sudden stops
The manual lists speeding, weaving, slow driving, jerking motion and quick stops as telltale signs. Handbook: Drinking and Driving, page 116.
- 44.What is the first alcohol offence penalty for a driver under 21 with a BAC of 0.01 to 0.08 percent?
Alcohol and Drugs
- A 30- to 90-day suspension, community service and an IDRC programme
An underage first offence brings a 30- to 90-day suspension, 15 to 30 days of community service and an IDRC place. Handbook: Underage Offense, page 124.
- 45.Where is an alcohol-related offender detained in New Jersey?
Privileges and Penalties
- At an Intoxicated Driver Resource Center
State law requires detention at an Intoxicated Driver Resource Center. Handbook: Intoxicated Driver Resource Center (IDRC), page 128.
- 46.What is the fine range for reckless driving as a first offence?
Privileges and Penalties
- Not less than $50 or more than $200
Reckless driving carries up to 60 days in jail, a fine of not less than $50 or more than $200, or both. Handbook: Driver Privileges and Penalties, page 129.
- 47.What is the fine for a first offence of carrying an open alcohol container in the passenger area?
Privileges and Penalties
- $200
Carrying open or unsealed alcohol in the passenger area is a $200 fine for a first offence. Handbook: Carrying Alcoholic Beverages, page 129.
- 48.What fine applies for driving with snow or ice still on the vehicle?
Privileges and Penalties
- $25 to $75
A motorist who does not remove snow or ice before driving faces $25 to $75. Handbook: Ice and Snow, page 129.
- 49.What are the penalties for failing to approach and pass a vulnerable road user with due caution when there is bodily injury?
Privileges and Penalties
- $500 and two motor vehicle penalty points
Bodily injury means a $500 fine and two motor vehicle penalty points. Handbook: Not Approaching and Passing Vulnerable Road Users with Due Caution, page 130.
- 50.What happens for a first hit-and-run with bodily injury or death?
Privileges and Penalties
- A fine of $2,500 to $5,000 and up to 180 days in jail, plus a one-year licence loss
A first hit-and-run with bodily injury or death can cost $2,500 to $5,000, 180 days in jail and a one-year licence loss. Handbook: Hit-and-Run, page 130.
- 51.What is the fine for a first offence of driving while suspended?
Privileges and Penalties
- $500 plus up to six more months of suspension
A first driving-while-suspended offence carries a $500 fine and up to six months more suspension. Handbook: Driving While Suspended, page 130.
- 52.What can a first insurance fraud conviction cost a motorist?
Privileges and Penalties
- Fines up to $5,000, up to three years in prison, or both, plus a one-year licence loss
Insurance fraud can bring fines up to $5,000, up to three years in prison, and a one-year licence loss. Handbook: Insurance Fraud, page 130.
- 53.In a 65 mph zone, which of these can mean doubled fines?
Privileges and Penalties
- Racing on a public highway
Racing, refusing an officer's request, and other moving violations in a 65 mph zone mean doubled fines. Handbook: 65 mph Zone, page 129.