Autistic motorists in New Jersey, as well as their parents/Guardians, are now able to request that their autism diagnoses be notated on their driver’s license. This notation will appear as a code in the “restrictions” column of the driver’s license. In doing so, New Jersey joins 12 other states that offer similar driver’s license notations.
National autism research reveals that persons with autism and other developmental disabilities are more likely to encounter law enforcement than the general population. The actions or reactions of people with autism can be misinterpreted by the police and other first responders. Accordingly, this new voluntary program is intended to alert police officers of the driver’s disability during traffic stops and avoid misunderstandings. Additionally, New Jersey police departments will be provided with written guidance, instructing officers how to effectively communicate with people with autism or other disorders involving speech, language, or hearing.
In addition to the notation on their driver’s license, autistic drivers will also be able to request a “Pink Card,” to carry along with their license or ID card, describing their diagnosis. The Card includes a designation section, with boxes to check such as “autism spectrum,” “communication disorder,” and “disorder hearing aid.” The card also has a restriction section, with boxes such as “hearing impaired,” “mechanical aid,” “prosthetic aid,” and more.
Autism advocates have embraced the new law. From their perspective, the new law provides autistic drivers with a direct and simple way to communicate their diagnosis to an officer, while also providing officers with tools to manage the interaction safely and sensitively.
People with autism or a communication issue can request to have their license updated at any state Motor Vehicle Commission licensing Center. Applicants will need to bring the six points of ID required for a license and fill out an application form.
We recommend checking the New Jersey Department of Motor Vehicle website for the latest updates as the new program is implemented across the state.