http://www.state.nj.us/mvc/cit_permi...er_permit.html
it gets confusing. but from what i read, it seems you need your permit for 6 months if you get your permit at the age of 16, then at 17 you go for the GDL permit, which just limits when you can drive, how many passengers, etc. then 6 months after you turn 17 you can go for the full license. If you ahve any questions find a phone number and call, opr call a drive school, or even just go to a local MVC and ask.