New Jersey Facts
The information below is updated periodically but things often change between updates. Do not rely on this information without checking with another source.
If you see an error, let us know at nma@motorists.org
Points of Interest
Self-service gas is prohibited.
New Jersey requires that you have your headlights on whenever you are using your windshield wipers.
The right of way on many of the traffic circles (rotaries) is not clearly defined. Sometimes it is the person inside the circle with the right of way, sometimes it is the person entering. These unwritten rules are not consistent from circle to circle, and worse yet, not consistent within a circle. Always be prepared to stop.
Police cars use red lights, sometimes in combination with other colors, when they want to pull someone over. Be cautious of a vehicle displaying a blue light only. If in doubt, signal acknowledgment and that you are proceeding to a well-lit public place to stop.
There is a hefty fine for snow or ice blowing off your car and causing damage to another car or person.
The best traffic and weather reports are on WKXW, 101.5 FM and 97.3 FM. Accurate weather every 10 minutes and traffic reports 24 hours a day.
Speed Limits
Unless Otherwise Posted
Absolute
 |
|
| Urban | 25 mph |
| Rural | *50 mph |
| Four-lane highways | 55 mph |
| Interstates | 65 mph |
Speed Limits Enforcement Techniques
Enforced through use of:
|
|
|
| Pacing | Yes |
| Radar | Yes |
| Vascar | Yes |
| Photo Radar | No |
| Aircraft | Yes |
| Laser | Yes |
Tickets
Tickets can be paid in person and some tickets can be paid by mail.
Trial By Declaration Allowed
No
Jury Trial Allowed
|
|
|
| Speeding | No |
| Parking | No |
| Equipment | No |
| DWI | No |
Member of Nonresident Compact
Yes
Member of Driver License Compact
Yes
When and Where to File Accident Reports
Accidents involving death, personal injury, or property damage exceeding $500 must be reported immediately to the local authorities and (if the accident is not investigated by the authorities) within 10 days in writing to the Department of Motor Vehicles, 225 E. State St., Trenton, NJ 08666.
Resident Insurance Requirements
Compulsory insurance law and financial responsibility law.
Security-type law applicable in the event of an accident causing death, personal injury, or property damage exceeding $500.
Minimum limits: $15,000/30,000/5,000.
No-fault insurance with personal injury protection and uninsured motorist insurance is required.
New Jersey has unsatisfied judgment funds law.
Regulations
- Open intoxicants are prohibited in the vehicle.
- The BAC level is .08 percent.
- New Jersey does not have an administrative license suspension law, but does have an implied consent law. The breathalyzer refusal penalty is a 6-month driver's license suspension for first offense.
- Firearms may not be carried in a vehicle without a firearm identification card.
- New Jersey considers over 4 dozen specified firearms as being "assault firearms." Check before you carry firearms through this state.
- Studded tires are permitted from November 15 to April 1.
- Tire chains are not required.
- New Jersey has a seat belt law with primary enforcement for all front seat occupants.
- New Jersey has a mandatory motorcycle helmet law.
- Registration and insurance card must be carried in the vehicle.
General Information
Telephone: 609/882-2000 x-2238
Emergency Cellular Phone Number: 911