Transition Age Rights in New Jersey
What are the transition age rights for IEP students in New Jersey?
New Jersey has a two-tier transition planning framework that starts earlier than many states and earlier than the federal minimum. Under N.J.A.C. 6A:14-3.7(e)(11), transition planning must begin at age 14, or younger if the IEP team deems it appropriate. At age 14, the IEP must include the student's strengths, interests, and preferences based on age-appropriate transition assessments; a course of study listing classes for the current IEP year and projected courses to prepare for adult life; and related strategies and activities. The IEP team must also consider the need for consultation from the Division of Vocational Rehabilitation Services (DVRS) and other agencies. Under N.J.A.C. 6A:14-3.7(e)(12), beginning with the IEP in effect when the student turns 16, the IEP must include measurable postsecondary goals based on age-appropriate transition assessments in training, education, employment, and if appropriate, independent living, along with the transition services and course of study needed to reach those goals. A liaison must be identified to link the student with postsecondary resources (N.J.A.C. 6A:14-3.7(e)(13)). At age 18, all educational rights transfer to the student unless a legal guardian has been appointed (N.J.A.C. 6A:14-2.3(m)). FAPE eligibility continues through age 21 in New Jersey. Transition assessments required at age 14 must include postsecondary outcome assessments as part of the evaluation process (N.J.A.C. 6A:14-3.4(f)(5)).
What New Jersey Requires
Transition planning must begin by age 14 — two years earlier than the federal minimum of 16 (N.J.A.C. 6A:14-3.7(e)(11)).
At age 14: IEP must include strengths/interests/preferences, transition assessments, course of study, and related strategies (N.J.A.C. 6A:14-3.7(e)(11)).
At age 16: IEP must include measurable postsecondary goals for training, education, employment, and independent living (N.J.A.C. 6A:14-3.7(e)(12)).
The IEP team must consider consultation with DVRS and other agencies starting at age 14 (N.J.A.C. 6A:14-3.7(e)(11)).
A liaison must be identified to assist with postsecondary resource linkage (N.J.A.C. 6A:14-3.7(e)(13)).
All educational rights transfer to the student at age 18 unless a legal guardian is appointed (N.J.A.C. 6A:14-2.3(m)).
Key Timelines
Age 14: transition planning begins with course of study and strengths/interests/preferences (N.J.A.C. 6A:14-3.7(e)(11)).
Age 16: measurable postsecondary goals and transition services required (N.J.A.C. 6A:14-3.7(e)(12)).
Age 18: educational rights transfer to the student (N.J.A.C. 6A:14-2.3(m)).
Age 21: FAPE eligibility ends (N.J.A.C. 6A:14-1.3).
Transition assessments must be included in evaluations for students age 14+ (N.J.A.C. 6A:14-3.4(f)(5)).