Rumors are flying that the NJMVC will be enforcing the “red decal” requirement that was passed back in 2010. So, we have published a refresher on the law, which requires a red reflective decal to be displayed on the license plate of drivers who are under the age of 21. While there has been no formal announcement, there are whispers that testing centers will be enforcing the regulation to easily identify provisional license holders on the road.
The Essentials: Cost and Placement
These markers are available for purchase at any Motor Vehicle Commission (MVC) agency for $4 per pair. To stay compliant with the law, drivers must affix one decal to the upper left-hand corner of both the front and rear license plates.
Because many teens share vehicles with parents or older siblings, the decals are designed to be removable. They can be switched between different cars or taken off entirely when an experienced driver is behind the wheel. While initial discussions suggested using the color orange, safety experts ultimately selected red to ensure maximum visibility for law enforcement and other motorists.
Enhancing Road Safety and Enforcement
The primary goal of this initiative is to assist police in upholding Graduated Driver License (GDL) restrictions. New Jersey officials, including the Motor Vehicle Commission and the Attorney General’s office, view this as a major leap forward in teen driving safety.
With these decals clearly visible, officers can more easily identify potential violations specific to provisional holders, such as:
- Curfew Restrictions: Driving between the hours of 11:00 p.m. and 5:00 a.m.
- Passenger Limits: Carrying more than the legally permitted number of passengers.
Compliance and Legal Standing
While some have raised concerns regarding privacy or the potential for increased police scrutiny, the courts have upheld the law, noting that driving is a regulated privilege rather than an inherent right.
Per the NJMVC website, drivers under 21 are subject to New Jersey’s Graduated Driver License (GDL) requirements:
- Special learner’s permit
- Examination permit
- Probationary (formerly Provisional) license
Note: Decals must be displayed for the road test of drivers under age 21.
Students and parents need to understand that attempting to bypass the law by removing the decals carries a significant financial risk. Drivers caught operating a vehicle without the required markers could be fined $100.
For our students at the driving school, we recommend picking up your decals early to ensure you are ready for the road as soon as the law takes effect. Safety and compliance are the first steps toward becoming a lifelong responsible driver.