Whether you’re a teen getting your learner’s permit or an adult looking to refresh your skills, the duration of driving school varies based on your age, experience, and goals. In this article, we’ll break it all down—so you know exactly what to expect.
Most Driving Schools in NJ Offer:
- 6-Hour Behind-the-Wheel Course for teens (mandatory for 16-year-olds)
- 2 to 10 hours of training for adults, based on skill and comfort
- Refresher classes and road test prep (usually 1 to 2 hours)
Let’s break it down by driver type:
👩🎓 For Teen Drivers (Age 16)
The NJMVC requires teens applying for a Special Learner’s Permit to complete a 6-hour behind-the-wheel course with a licensed driving school.
What’s included in the 6-hour program?
Basic vehicle control
Defensive driving techniques
Parking & turning maneuvers
Road rules & hazard awareness
Permit application processing
Eye test and a validated permit
🕒 Total time: 6 hours, often split into three 2-hour sessions.
For Adult Learners (Age 17+)
There’s no legal time requirement for adults, but most learners need 4 to 8 hours of driving instruction to be test-ready and confident.
Recommended Options:
- 2-hour starter session to assess skill
- 6 to 10 hours if you’re a complete beginner
- Refresher sessions before the road test
Adults can also take lessons at their own pace, based on comfort and availability.
Road Test Prep: Do You Need Extra Hours?
Even if you’ve driven before, a 2-hour road test refresher class can help fine-tune your skills, especially for:
- Parallel parking
- K-turns
- Left turns
- Test site routes
🕒 Time required: 2 hours, usually booked 1 week before your test.
How Paramus Driving School Structures Lessons
At Paramus Driving School, we offer flexible packages tailored to your needs:
Program | Time Required | Who It’s For |
6-Hour Teen Permit Program | 6 hours | 16-year-old students |
2-Hour Training Session | 2 hours | Adults or refresher students |
Road Test Refresher | 2 hours | Test-takers who need review |
Road Test Service | 1–3 hours (includes wait + test time) | Anyone taking test at Lodi, Wayne, Rahway, or Randolph |
What Factors Affect How Long You’ll Need?
- Your current skill level – New drivers need more practice
- Confidence behind the wheel – Nervous drivers benefit from extra sessions
- Practice outside lessons – Students who practice regularly with a supervising adult often progress faster
- Test location – Each facility has unique layout and challenges
How Long Is Driving School in NJ?
Driver Type | Minimum Time Required |
Teen (16 y/o) | 6 hours (required) |
Adult Beginner | 4–10 hours (recommended) |
Refresher/Retest | 1–2 hours |
Your total time depends on your skill level, confidence, and practice habits.
📅 Ready to Start? We’ll Help You Every Step of the Way.
At Paramus Driving School, we guide students from their first turn of the wheel to passing their road test with confidence.
- Certified NJ MVC instructors
- Flexible scheduling
- Test-day service included
- Customized lesson plans
📞 Call now 201-986-8300 or book online to reserve your first session—and get on the road faster, safer, and smarter.