It’s official: NJ drivers can renew licenses for free

If you have a driver’s license in New Jersey and it’s up for renewal, you are in for a pleasant surprise.

Assemblyman Paul Moriarty, D-Gloucester, sponsored legislation that has just been signed by Gov. Phil Murphy that will “waive the fee for renewal of your driver’s license, motorcycle license, commercial driver’s license or even for a non-driver ID card for a one year period.

“Instead of having to pay a $24 fee to get their license renewed they’ll pay nothing, and that applies to not just drivers licenses for cars but also motorcycles, commercial vehicles,” said Moriarty.

New Jerseyans with a driver’s license that expires any time from October of this year until the end of September 2023 won’t pay a renewal fee.

He said this is part of a larger effort to finds ways to help people out in New Jersey at a time when inflation continues to spike higher.

“We’re also letting certain professionals like nurses and doctors and social workers renew their licenses without having to pay a fee,” he said.

Looking for ways to help

“We are looking at every way possible to make New Jersey more affordable, people are dealing with inflation, they’re dealing with rising prices, higher grocery prices, that’s why we’re saying to 1.75 million drivers in the state, go get your license renewed if it’s supposed to come up this year and don’t pay the fee," he said.

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The New Jersey Office of Legislative Services concluded this fee holiday will result in a one-year decrease in revenues collected by the state Motor Vehicle Commission of about $22.3 million.

The new state budget includes an appropriation of $22.3 million to the MVC to offset the revenue loss.

David Matthau is a reporter for New Jersey 101.5. You can reach him at david.matthau@townsquaremedia.com

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A trip to New Jersey doesn't have to be all about the beach. Our state has some incredible trails, waterfalls, and lakes to enjoy.

From the Pine Barrens to the Appalachian Trail to the hidden gems of New Jersey, you have plenty of options for a great hike. Hiking is such a great way to spend time outdoors and enjoy nature, plus it's a great workout.

Before you go out on the trails and explore some of our listeners' suggestions, I have some tips on hiking etiquette from the American Hiking Society.

If you are going downhill and run into an uphill hiker, step to the side and give the uphill hiker space. A hiker going uphill has the right of way unless they stop to catch their breath.

Always stay on the trail, you may see side paths, unless they are marked as an official trail, steer clear of them. By going off-trail you may cause damage to the ecosystems around the trail, the plants, and wildlife that live there.

You also do not want to disturb the wildlife you encounter, just keep your distance from the wildlife and continue hiking.

Bicyclists should yield to hikers and horses. Hikers should also yield to horses, but I’m not sure how many horses you will encounter on the trails in New Jersey.

If you are thinking of bringing your dog on your hike, they should be leashed, and make sure to clean up all pet waste.

Lastly, be mindful of the weather, if the trail is too muddy, it's probably best to save your hike for another day.

I asked our listeners for their suggestions of the best hiking spots in New Jersey, check out their suggestions:

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