This chapter covers the rules that govern everyday driving decisions: speed control, passing, right-of-way, intersections, turning, and when a driver is legally required to stop.
The most heavily tested material includes passing rules based on lane-line markings, stopping distance from a stopped school bus, stopping for pedestrians in a crosswalk, and cell phone restrictions — handheld phone use is banned while driving.
A common mistake is misjudging the school bus stopping distance or assuming a broken center line always means it's safe to pass — passing is still never allowed near intersections, railroad crossings, or on hills and curves with limited visibility.
How far must I stop from a stopped school bus?⌄
On most roads, a motorist must stop at least 25 feet away when a school bus has its red lights flashing, and must not proceed until the bus signals have turned off.
When am I allowed to pass another vehicle?⌄
You may pass when the center line on your side is broken, there's no oncoming traffic, and you're not near an intersection, railroad crossing, hill, or curve with limited visibility. Passing must be completed before the lines become solid again.
Is a right turn on red allowed in New Jersey?⌄
Yes, unless a No Turn on Red sign is posted. You must come to a full stop, check for traffic and pedestrians, and yield to all oncoming traffic before turning.