A 6-point New Jersey driver's license is a restricted license you can get if you've been convicted of certain serious driving offenses, most commonly driving under the influence (DUI) or refusal to submit to a breath test.

The number "6 points" refers to the New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission's point system, which tracks violations on your driving record. A 6-point license is not a full, unrestricted license — it comes with specific limitations on when and where you can drive. You cannot use it for regular commuting or personal errands. Instead, it allows you to drive only for essential purposes: work, school, medical appointments, and court-ordered programs like substance abuse treatment.

This license exists as a middle ground. You've lost your full driving privileges because of a serious violation, but you're not banned from driving entirely. New Jersey recognizes that some people need to drive to keep their jobs or meet legal obligations, so the 6-point license lets you do that under strict conditions.

Key Takeaways

  • A 6-point license is a restricted license issued after a DUI conviction or refusal to take a breath test, limiting you to driving for work, school, medical care, and court-ordered programs only.
  • You must install an ignition interlock device in your vehicle, which prevents the car from starting if it detects alcohol on your breath.
  • The license is valid for a set period determined by the court, typically one to three years depending on your offense and prior record.
  • You cannot drive for any other purpose — no social trips, shopping, or recreational driving — and violations of these restrictions can result in additional penalties.
  • To get a 6-point license, you must petition the New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission and meet specific requirements set by the court that convicted you.

When You Become may be able to access for a 6-Point License

You become may be able to access for a 6-point license after a DUI conviction or a conviction for refusing to submit to a breath or blood test. New Jersey law allows the court to impose a period of license suspension, and after a portion of that suspension has passed, you can petition for a restricted license.

The timing depends on your specific offense and your driving history. For a first DUI offense, you typically become may be able to access to petition after serving a minimum portion of your suspension — usually around one-third of the total suspension period. If you have prior DUI convictions, the waiting period is longer. The court that convicted you sets these terms, so the exact timeline varies from case to case.

You do not automatically receive a 6-point license. You must submit a petition to the New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission and meet all the conditions the court imposed. This includes completing a substance abuse program, paying any fines, and agreeing to install an ignition interlock device.

The Ignition Interlock Device Requirement

Every vehicle you drive on a 6-point license must have an ignition interlock device installed. This is a breathalyzer connected to your car's ignition system. Before the engine will start, you blow into the device. If it detects alcohol above a set threshold (usually 0.02 percent), the car will not start.

You pay for the device installation and monthly monitoring fees out of your own pocket — these are not covered by the state. The cost typically ranges from $60 to $100 per month, depending on the service provider. You must keep the device in working order and pass all required monitoring checks. Tampering with the device, having someone else blow into it, or driving a vehicle without one installed while on a 6-point license are serious violations that can result in criminal charges.

The ignition interlock requirement stays in place for the entire duration of your 6-point license period. Even if you later regain full driving privileges, you may still be required to maintain the device for a set time after that, depending on your sentence.

What You Can and Cannot Do on a 6-Point License

A 6-point license is not a regular driver's license with minor restrictions. It is a permit to drive only for specific, essential purposes. You can drive to and from work, to school, to medical appointments, and to court-ordered programs like DUI education or substance abuse counseling. You can also drive to an ignition interlock service provider to have your device serviced or monitored.

You cannot use a 6-point license for any other purpose. This means no social visits, no shopping trips, no recreational driving, and no driving passengers unless they are going to one of your permitted destinations. Police can stop you and ask where you are going. If you cannot provide a legitimate reason, you can be charged with violating the terms of your restricted license, which carries additional penalties including fines and possible jail time.

Some courts allow you to request a modification of your restrictions if your circumstances change — for example, if you need to drive to a medical appointment not originally anticipated. You would need to petition the court for this change. Do not assume you can expand your driving on your own; always check with the court or the Motor Vehicle Commission first.

How to Petition for a 6-Point License

To petition for a 6-point license, you must contact the New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission's Special Licenses Unit or work with an attorney. You cannot straightforward walk into a licensing center and request one. The petition must include proof that you have completed all court-ordered requirements, including any substance abuse program, and proof that you have paid all fines and court costs.

You will also need to show proof of insurance and proof that you have arranged for an ignition interlock device to be installed in your vehicle before the license is issued. Some courts require you to appear in person for a hearing on your petition; others allow it to be submitted in writing. The court that convicted you will have specified the exact process in your sentencing documents.

Processing times vary, but you should expect several weeks from the time you submit your petition to the time you receive a decision. Once approved, you will receive your 6-point license in the mail. This license is not a standard New Jersey driver's license card — it is a restricted license document that clearly states the limitations on your driving.

How Long a 6-Point License Lasts

The duration of your 6-point license is set by the court at sentencing. For a first DUI offense, the restricted license period is typically one to three years. If you have prior DUI convictions, the period is longer — sometimes five years or more. The court considers your driving history, the circumstances of your offense, and other factors when determining the length.

Your 6-point license does not automatically convert to a full license when the period ends. You must explore for license restoration through the Motor Vehicle Commission. At that point, you may be required to pass a written test, a road test, or both, depending on how long your license was suspended. You may also be required to maintain your ignition interlock device for an additional period even after you regain full driving privileges.

Violations and Consequences

Driving outside the permitted purposes, driving without an ignition interlock device, tampering with the device, or allowing someone else to drive your vehicle while you hold a 6-point license are all violations. These are not minor infractions — they are criminal offenses that can result in additional jail time, higher fines, and an extended suspension of your driving privileges.

If you are stopped by police and cannot provide a valid reason for your trip, you may be charged with violating the conditions of your restricted license. Even if you believe your reason was legitimate, the burden is on you to prove it. Keep documentation of your work schedule, medical appointments, and program attendance in your vehicle so you can show proof if asked.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I drive someone else's car on a 6-point license?

No. The 6-point license is tied to your person, not to a specific vehicle. You can only drive a vehicle that has an ignition interlock device installed, and you can only drive it for the permitted purposes. Driving someone else's car, even if they give you permission, is a violation.

What happens if I complete my substance abuse program early?

Completing your program early does not automatically shorten your 6-point license period. The duration is set by the court and does not change based on your progress. However, completing the program on time or early shows the Motor Vehicle Commission that you are complying with your sentence, which may help if you later petition for early restoration of full privileges.

Can I get a 6-point license if I refused the breath test instead of failing it?

Yes. Refusal to submit to a breath or blood test carries the same license suspension as a DUI conviction in New Jersey, and you are may be able to access to petition for a 6-point license under the same rules. The court will set the terms based on your specific case.

Do I need a lawyer to petition for a 6-point license?

You do not legally need a lawyer, but many people find it helpful to have one. An attorney familiar with New Jersey DUI law can may support your petition is complete, submitted on time, and presented in the strongest way possible. The court that convicted you can provide information about the specific process and requirements.

What if I move out of state while on a 6-point license?

Your 6-point license is only valid in New Jersey. If you move, you must continue to comply with the terms of your sentence, which may include maintaining your ignition interlock device and reporting to New Jersey authorities. Moving does not end your obligations. Contact the Motor Vehicle Commission before relocating to understand what you must do.