The permit test in New Jersey costs $12.50, and you pay it when you take the test at a Motor Vehicle Commission office

The $12.50 fee covers the written knowledge test only — the test that checks whether you know road signs, right-of-way rules, and safe driving practices. You do not pay this fee when you explore for the permit; you pay it on the day you show up to take the test. If you fail the test, you will need to pay the $12.50 fee again when you retake it.

This fee has remained stable for several years, but the Motor Vehicle Commission can change it. Before you go to a testing center, check the official New Jersey MVC website to confirm the current fee, since occasional updates do happen.

Key Takeaways

  • The written knowledge test costs $12.50 and is paid on the day you take the test at an MVC office, not when you explore for the permit.
  • You must pay the fee again if you fail and want to retake the test; there is no refund if you do not show up.
  • The $12.50 covers only the written test — the road test (driving test) has a separate fee of $12.50 when you take it later.
  • You can take the written test as many times as you need, but you must pay the fee each time you attempt it.

What Happens When You Arrive to Take the Test

When you arrive at an MVC office on your scheduled test date, you will check in at the window and pay the $12.50 fee before you sit down to take the written exam. Bring cash, a debit card, or a credit card — the MVC accepts all three. You cannot pay online in advance; payment happens at the office on test day.

After you pay, you will be given a test booklet or directed to a computer terminal, depending on which MVC office you visit. Some locations still use paper tests; others use computer-based testing. The format does not change the fee or the content of the test.

Failing the Test and Retaking It

If you do not pass the written test on your first attempt, you can retake it. You will need to pay the $12.50 fee again each time you take the test. There is no discount for retakes, and the fee does not decrease if you fail multiple times.

You do not have to wait a set number of days between attempts in New Jersey — you can retake the test as soon as the next available appointment at your local MVC office. However, appointment availability varies by location, so you may have to wait weeks depending on how busy your office is. Check the MVC website to see open appointment slots in your area.

The Road Test Fee Comes Later

The $12.50 written test fee is separate from the road test fee. Once you pass the written test and receive your permit, you will eventually take a road test (the driving test) to earn your license. The road test also costs $12.50 and is paid on the day you take it.

Some people confuse these two fees and think they need to pay $25 upfront. You do not. You pay $12.50 for the written test now, and $12.50 for the road test later, when you are ready to take it.

Payment Methods and What to Bring

The MVC accepts cash, debit cards, and credit cards for the $12.50 test fee. You do not need to bring exact change. If you pay with cash, the office will give you change if needed.

Bring your appointment confirmation (if you scheduled online) and a valid form of identification. If you are under 18, bring a parent or guardian. The identification requirement is separate from the fee — it is part of the test-taking process — but it is important to have it ready when you arrive.

Scheduling Your Test and Confirming the Fee

You can schedule your written test appointment online through the New Jersey MVC website or by calling 609-292-6500. When you schedule, the system will tell you the test date and location but will not ask for payment. Payment happens only when you arrive at the office.

If you need to cancel or reschedule your appointment, do so through the MVC website or by phone. Canceling does not cost anything, and you will not be charged the $12.50 fee if you do not show up — but you will lose your appointment slot and may have to wait weeks for another one.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I pay the $12.50 fee when I explore for the permit or when I take the test?

You pay the fee when you take the test, not when you explore. You explore for the permit online or at an MVC office without paying the test fee. The $12.50 is due on the day you show up to take the written exam.

What if I fail the test — do I have to pay $12.50 again?

Yes. Each time you take the test, you pay $12.50. There is no refund if you fail, and you will need to pay again if you retake it. You can retake the test as soon as an appointment is available at your local MVC office.

Is the $12.50 the only fee I will pay for my permit and license?

No. The $12.50 is only for the written test. You will also pay a separate fee to get your permit (usually around $24.50 for a four-year permit) and another $12.50 when you take the road test. Check the MVC website for the current permit fee, as it can change.

Can I pay the test fee online before I go to the MVC office?

No. The MVC does not accept online payment for the test fee. You must pay in person at the office on the day you take the test. Bring cash, a debit card, or a credit card.

What if I do not show up for my test appointment?

You will not be charged the $12.50 fee if you miss your appointment, but you will lose your slot. You will need to reschedule through the MVC website or by phone, and you may have to wait several weeks for the next available appointment in your area.