New Jersey DMV: Certified Translation Requirements for Foreign Driver's Licenses

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If you're planning to drive in New Jersey with a foreign driver's license, it's important to understand the state's specific requirements. Whether you're visiting or moving as a resident, this short guide provides the key information on using or swapping your foreign license, including when a certified translation may be necessary.

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Driving in New Jersey with a Foreign Driver's License
Swapping Your Foreign Driver's License in New Jersey

Driving in New Jersey with a Foreign Driver's License

If you are visiting the U.S. and not taking up permanent residency, you may drive in New Jersey with a valid foreign driver's license for up to one year. Your foreign license must be accompanied by an International Driving Permit (IDP) issued in your country of residence.

To drive in New Jersey with a foreign license, you must meet the following criteria:

Validity of License: The foreign driver's license must be valid and not expired. You must carry your license and IDP at all times while driving.
Duration: You may drive with your foreign license and IDP for up to one year.
Appropriate Vehicle Categories: Ensure your foreign license covers the appropriate categories for the class of vehicle you intend to drive.

Translation Requirement

If your foreign driver's license is not in English, it is advised to have a certified translation of the license to avoid potential language barriers.

Swapping Your Foreign Driver's License in New Jersey

If you are moving to New Jersey as a resident, you can transfer your foreign driver's license for a standard New Jersey driver's license or a REAL ID. The process depends on whether your country has a reciprocity agreement with New Jersey.

Reciprocity Agreements

New Jersey has reciprocity agreements with Taiwan and South Korea for non-commercial (class D) driver’s licenses. If you have a valid license from one of these countries and meet all the requirements, you may be exempt from taking the knowledge and skills (road) tests.

Required Documents for Reciprocity Applicants:

Valid Foreign Driver's License: With a certified translation if the license is not in English.
Proof of Identity: A valid passport or other identification document.
Proof of New Jersey Residency
Proof of Social Security Number
Verification of Lawful Presence: A visa or other document showing a minimum of 12 months of lawful presence in the U.S.

If all criteria are met, you may skip the knowledge and road tests and transfer your foreign license to a New Jersey driver's license.

Additional Requirements:

Taiwan: Applicants must provide a valid Taiwan resident certificate (valid for at least six months) and a Verification of Certificate of Driver’s License issued by the Republic of China (Taiwan).
South Korea: Applicants must provide a translation of their license and either an Apostille or notarial certificate if the license was issued before 2019 and is not in English. They must also present a Certificate of Driver’s License from Korea in English, verifying that the license is in good standing.

Non-Reciprocity Countries

If you are from a country without a reciprocity agreement, you will need to pass both the knowledge and skills (road) tests to obtain a New Jersey driver’s license.

For more details on transferring your foreign driver's license, visit the New Jersey MVC website.

This version includes driving as a visitor with a foreign license, the reciprocity agreements, and the requirements for swapping a foreign license in New Jersey.

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