NEW JERSEY – Gov. Phil Murphy signed legislation Thursday that strengthens driver education and testing requirements in New Jersey to better prepare motorists to safely share the road with pedestrians, cyclists, and other vulnerable users.
The new law, A4765/S4146, mandates the inclusion of pedestrian and cyclist safety in both the state’s driver education curriculum and licensing examination. It also outlines specific responsibilities for drivers when approaching individuals operating bicycles or personal conveyances, and details penalties for failing to follow those rules.
“Today’s legislation marks another essential step toward reducing roadside fatalities and making our streets safer,” Murphy said during a signing ceremony in Maplewood. “By expanding driver’s education and testing to include more safeguards for pedestrians and cyclists, we are fostering a new generation of informed, responsible drivers.”
Murphy was joined by crash victims, transportation safety advocates, and local and state leaders. The bill builds on broader efforts by the Murphy administration to address traffic safety, including the recent formation of the Target Zero Commission. The 13-member body is tasked with developing strategies to eliminate all serious injuries and deaths on New Jersey roadways by 2040.
The need for enhanced driver education comes amid concerning traffic trends. From 2023 to 2024, traffic fatalities rose 14%, with pedestrian deaths climbing by 36%, officials said. However, data through July of this year shows a 17% decrease in overall traffic fatalities and a 31% drop in pedestrian deaths compared to the same period in 2024.
“With the signing of this bill, the MVC will place added emphasis on drivers sharing the road with pedestrians, cyclists, and vulnerable road users in our driver manual and driver testing,” said Latrecia Littles-Floyd, Acting Chief Administrator of the Motor Vehicle Commission.
New Jersey Department of Transportation Commissioner Fran O’Connor and Division of Highway Traffic Safety Director Michael J. Rizol Jr. also voiced support, emphasizing that the law will better inform motorists of their responsibilities and enhance road safety for all.
“Safety is everyone’s responsibility,” O’Connor said. “This law helps make sure drivers are properly educated so they are doing their part to reduce crashes, injuries, and fatalities.”
The law takes effect immediately and will influence driver education programs and testing standards across the state.
