Welcome to NJ TRANSIT’s Temporary Access Permit (TAP) Information Hub

The Temporary Access Permit (TAP) system is designed to support external entities that need access to NJ Transit’s Light Rail properties for various projects. TAP ensures that all vendors adhere to NJ Transit’s operational and safety standards, coordinating essential support personnel, such as flagging staff, supervisors, and/or contractors, to facilitate efficient and compliant work on these properties. 


This TAP hub is dedicated to provide vendors with essential information and is designed to streamline and assist understanding, while providing easy engagement with our TAP process. This enables vendors to explore opportunities for collaboration by providing a clear roadmap of requirements, steps, and guidelines for applying. Whether you are a new applicant or an existing permit holder seeking updated guidance, all the details you need are right here. 

How the TAP Process Works 

The Temporary Access Permit (TAP) is obtained via a streamlined, step-by-step process designed to help vendors understand and meet the criteria for working on NJ Transit’s Light Rail properties. Each phase, from the initial application to final approval, is guided by specific standards to ensure safety, compliance, and transparency. 

To assist you through each step, we’ve provided the following resources: 

  1. Initial Application Requirements - 

    Before beginning the application process, please be prepared to provide the following information which includes detailed eligibility requirements, submission criteria, and key deadlines to get started with your TAP application:

    1. Scope of work – Shall include location, a detailed description and purpose of the request, work duration including estimated start and completion dates, and type of equipment that will be used.
    2. Aerial photos with work location(s) highlighted and drawings showing the subject work area, possible impacted surroundings and appropriate details.
    3. Applicant company’s legal name, billing address, phone number, fax number and Federal Tax ID#.
    4. Applicant’s W-9 Form.
    5. Designated company representative’s name, title, email address, phone number and role in project (i.e. contractor, engineer, property owner) 
       

  2. Reference Materials –

    To simplify the application process, please refer to the Light Rail Line templates for each system, forms, and examples provided below which will help you meet all requirements effectively. 

3. Procedure:

Upon review and approval of the Initial Application Requirements NJ TRANSIT will require: 

  1. An application and use fee of $500
  2. A deposit for the required prepaid escrow account. The amount will be determined by NJ TRANSIT and/or its contracted operator(s), based upon the proposed scope and necessary services to accommodate the work that will be performed.  This will include flagging and safety related services.
  3. A Certificate of Insurance (COI) with designated threshold limits, naming NJ TRANSIT as an additional insured.
    1. If the work is to be performed within 50 feet of the NJT ROW, Railroad Protection Insurance coverage will also be required. 

  4. Payments can be made by wire transfer or check made payable to NJ TRANSIT. 

     

4. Executed TAP Document:

Following NJ TRANSIT’s approval of the required submittals and payments, a Temporary Access Agreement representing the TAP will be sent to the Applicant for review and signature. Applicants will receive an email alert and directions to access and sign the permit agreement. NJ Transit will route the permit agreement internally for final execution, then distribution to all stakeholders. 
  

5. Additional Information 

  1. Once issued, always reference your assigned TAP number on all related communications and correspondences.
  2. It is mandatory for the Permittee to install and confirm that the proper protection measures are in place before beginning any work on the Approved TAP.  
  3. The Light Rail Line Representative must be contacted at least two (2) weeks before the project start date to coordinate access and on-site activity.  
  4. All costs for flagging protection and other services in support of the Access Permit will be billed to the permit holder, as detailed in the permit.  
  5. All people working within NJ TRANSIT’s Right-of-Way (ROW) shall complete NJ TRANSIT’s safety training before work begins.
  6. TAPs are valid for one year and can be extended if the work goes beyond the original expiration date, with sufficient advanced notification/request.  
  7. Complete and submit an Exhibit D – Notification of Work Completion Form when you finish your project.  The completed Form D, site work and escrow balances will be reviewed for acceptance before the project is formally closed. 
  8. Additional instructions will be provided during the application and processing steps. 

 

Get Started Here

6.    To access the form to apply for TAP  – Click here to send the form to your email address. You can access the ‘TAP application form’ directly from this page to begin your application process. 


We encourage you to explore the links and reference documents above to gain a comprehensive understanding of the TAP process and confidently begin or advance your application.