Originally Posted by modF

In NJ now you have to be 16 to get a learner's permit, which lasts a year. You must be in the car with an adult, and there are restricted hours.

If you complete this year, you can then get a provisional license at 17 (after you pass your permit). This allows you to drive alone, as long as it is not between midnight and 5 am, and you may not have more than one or two person's under 18 or 21. (I'm not sure of the ages off the top of my head).

After your one year of driving, when you turn 18 you can get a normal drivers license. If you are 18 and have not done the above, you still have to do your provisional year.