NJ Traffic Laws: What Every Driver Needs to Know in 2025
Driving in New Jersey comes with rules you need to follow to stay safe and avoid trouble. Knowing the NJ traffic laws can save you from tickets, fines, or even bigger problems like losing your license. This guide breaks down the most important laws in simple words, shares real-life tips, and helps you drive smarter. Let’s get started!
Why NJ Traffic Laws Matter
Traffic laws keep roads safe for everyone—drivers, walkers, and bikers. In New Jersey, breaking these laws can lead to fines, points on your license, or even jail time for serious stuff. For example, speeding might cost you $50 to $200, but it can also add points that make your insurance go up. I learned this the hard way when I got a speeding ticket in Newark—it wasn’t just the fine, but my insurance jumped $30 a month! Knowing the rules helps you avoid these headaches.
Top NJ Traffic Laws to Follow
Here are the big laws every NJ driver should know. They’re simple but super important.
- Speed Limits:
- NJ has different speed limits depending on the road: 25 mph in school zones, 35 mph in neighborhoods, and up to 65 mph on highways.
- Tip: Always look for signs—limits can change fast, especially near schools. I once missed a sign and got a $85 ticket near a playground.
- Breaking this: Fines start at $85, and you get 2-5 points on your license.
- Stop Signs and Red Lights:
- You must stop fully at stop signs and red lights—no rolling through!
- Tip: Count to three at a stop sign to make sure you’re really stopped. It saved me from a ticket once when a cop was watching.
- Breaking this: Fines are $85-$140, plus 2 points.
- No Texting While Driving:
- Using your phone to text or call without hands-free (like Bluetooth) is a big no-no.
- Tip: Put your phone in the glove box if you’re tempted—I do this on long drives.
- Breaking this: First fine is $200, and it goes up to $400 for the second time, plus 3 points.
- Seat Belts:
- Everyone in the car must wear a seat belt—driver and all passengers.
- Tip: Double-check your kids’ belts; NJ is strict about child safety seats too.
- Breaking this: $46 fine for each person not buckled up.
- Drunk Driving (DUI):
- Driving with a blood alcohol level of 0.08% or higher is illegal.
- Tip: If you’re drinking, get a ride with a friend or use a rideshare app. It’s not worth the risk.
- Breaking this: Fines start at $250, you lose your license for 3 months, and you might go to jail for 30 days.
Points and Your License: How It Works
NJ uses a point system to track bad driving. Each time you break a law, you get points on your license. Here’s a quick look:
| Violation | Points |
|---|---|
| Speeding (1-14 mph over) | 2 points |
| Speeding (15-29 mph over) | 4 points |
| Running a Red Light | 2 points |
| Texting While Driving | 3 points |
| DUI | 9 points |
- What Happens: If you get 6 points in 3 years, you pay extra fees ($150 and up). At 12 points, your license gets suspended.
- My Tip: Check your points on the NJ MVC website—it’s free and helps you stay on track.
Special NJ Rules You Might Not Know
NJ has some unique laws that can catch you off guard. Here are a few:
- No Right Turn on Red in Some Spots:
- Some intersections have signs saying “No Turn on Red.” Look for them, especially in busy towns like Jersey City.
- Fine: $140 and 2 points.
- Move Over for Emergency Vehicles:
- If you see police, ambulances, or tow trucks with flashing lights, slow down and move over to give them space.
- Fine: Up to $500 if you don’t.
- No Pumping Your Own Gas:
- NJ doesn’t let you pump your own gas—attendants do it for you. It’s the law!
- Why It’s Cool: You don’t get gas on your hands, but don’t try to pump yourself—you’ll get a warning.
What Happens If You Break a Law?
Breaking NJ traffic laws usually means a ticket, but it can get worse:
- Fines: You’ll pay money, from $46 for a seat belt ticket to $500+ for bigger stuff like DUI.
- Points: These add up and can lead to extra fees or a suspended license.
- Court: For serious things like DUI, you might have to go to court. You can use NJMCDIRECT to pay or fight smaller tickets online—check out our for help.
- Insurance: Tickets make your insurance cost more. My speeding ticket added $360 to my yearly bill!
Tips to Stay Safe and Ticket-Free
Here’s what I’ve learned from driving in NJ for years:
- Slow Down Near Schools: Kids pop out of nowhere, and fines are double in school zones.
- Use Hands-Free for Calls: Get a Bluetooth earpiece—it’s cheap and keeps you legal.
- Know Your Route: NJ roads can be tricky with jug handles (weird left turns). Plan ahead to avoid last-minute moves.
- Check Signs: NJ loves signs for “No U-Turn” or “No Parking.” Missing one can cost you $50 or more.
Final Thoughts: Drive Smart in NJ
NJ traffic laws might seem strict, but they’re there to keep everyone safe. By knowing the rules—like speed limits, no texting, and moving over for cops—you can avoid tickets and keep your license clean. If you do get a ticket, don’t panic—our shows you how to pay or fight it online. Drive smart, stay safe, and enjoy the road!
Got a question about NJ laws? Drop it below—I’d love to help!