FREEHOLD -- State officials announced today how they will implement a new law requiring New Jersey drivers under 21 years old with provisional licenses to place red reflective decals on their license plates to identify themselves as new drivers.

The law, named after Morris County teenager Kyleigh D'Alessio, who died in a car accident when 16 years old, is the first of its kind in the country and becomes effective on May 1, officials said.

The decals, which can be purchased for $4 a pair at motor vehicle agencies starting April 12, are supposed to be affixed to the upper left corner of the front and rear license plates. They can also be removed when an older driver uses the car, or placed on a different car used by the young driver.

The decals were originally going to be orange, Kyleigh's favorite color, but authorities determined red would be more visible.

Raymond Martinez, who runs the New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission, called the law "one of the most significant steps forward in teen driver safety."

Attorney General Paula Dow said the decals will provide police with probable cause to stop people suspected of breaking motor vehicle laws aimed specifically at younger drivers.

For example, Dow said police will pull over cars displaying the new decals on the road between 11 p.m. and 5 a.m. or carrying too many passengers, two violations of the state's graduated drivers license laws.

Ewing Police Chief Robert Coulton, president of the New Jersey Chiefs of Police Association, said cops have previously had trouble identifying drivers who may be breaking laws on probationary licenses.

However, he said young drivers may try to avoid police scrutiny by removing the decals, risking a $100 penalty.

"That's a possibility," he said. "With every law, you can get around it."

The law, signed last year by former Gov. Jon Corzine, has been a source of controversy.

Attorney Gregg Trautmann argued in Superior Court in Morristown that the law is unconstitutional because the decals are a “scarlet letter” of age discrimination against teen drivers, making them targets for police and even sexual predators.

Judge Robert Brennan dismissed the lawsuit earlier this month, saying, “Operating a motor vehicle is not a right, it’s a privilege subject to state regulations. Kyleigh’s Law does not violate the constitutions of the United States or New Jersey.”

Previous Coverage:

• Red decals will mark young N.J. drivers

• 'Kyleigh's Law' decals for N.J. teen drivers to cost $4

• Kyleigh's Law requiring decals for N.J.'s teen drivers is upheld by judge

• Rockaway attorney sues state over law requiring display markers on teen drivers' cars

• Bill seeks to improve safety for teen drivers