The New Jersey Point System Explained: How to Keep a Clean Driving Record
When you get your New Jersey driver's license, you are automatically enrolled in the Motor Vehicle Commission's (MVC) Point System. This is a demerit system that tracks your driving performance. When you are convicted of a moving violation, the MVC adds points to your driving record. The more serious the offense, the more points you receive.
Think of it as a score you want to keep as low as possible. Accumulating too many points flags you as a high-risk driver and triggers a series of escalating penalties, including fines, surcharges, and license suspension. For new drivers especially, understanding this system from the very beginning is key to protecting your driving privileges and avoiding costly mistakes.
How the New Jersey MVC Point System Works
The concept is simple: if you break a traffic law and are convicted, you get points. These points stay on your record and can add up over time.
The MVC will take action once you accumulate 6 or more points within a three-year period, and will suspend your license if you accumulate 12 or more points.
Key Violations and Their Point Values
While there is a long list of violations, knowing the point values for the most common offenses can help you understand how quickly they can add up.
| Violation | MVC Points |
|---|---|
| Racing on a highway | 5 |
| Reckless driving | 5 |
| Leaving the scene of an accident (with personal injury) | 8 |
| Leaving the scene of an accident (no personal injury) | 2 |
| Tailgating (following too closely) | 5 |
| Careless driving | 2 |
| Improper passing of a school bus | 5 |
| Speeding 15-29 mph over the limit | 4 |
| Speeding 30 mph or more over the limit | 5 |
| Speeding 1-14 mph over the limit | 2 |
| Failure to yield to a pedestrian in a crosswalk | 2 |
| Failure to stop at a traffic light or stop sign | 2 |
| Improper passing | 4 |
| Improper turning | 3 |
| Using a handheld cellphone (third or subsequent offense) | 3 |
Note: Some serious offenses, like a DUI, result in automatic license suspensions and other penalties outside the standard point system.
As you can see, a single conviction for reckless driving (5 points) and a minor speeding ticket (2 points) is enough to put you over the initial 6-point threshold for MVC action.
The Consequences of Accumulating Points
The penalties for gaining points are progressive and can become very expensive.
When You Reach 6 or More Points:
- If you accumulate 6 or more points within three years, you will be required to pay an Annual Surcharge.
- The Surcharge: This is a fine of $150, plus an additional $25 for each point over 6.
- This surcharge must be paid every year for three years. Failing to pay it will result in an immediate license suspension.
When You Reach 12 or More Points:
- If you accumulate 12 or more points on your record at any time, the MVC will automatically mail you a "Scheduled Suspension Notice."
- Your license will be suspended. You have the right to request a hearing to challenge the suspension, but if you do not, the suspension will go into effect.
How to Get Points Removed from Your Record
The good news is that points do not have to stay on your record forever. New Jersey provides two primary ways for drivers to reduce their point total.
1. Good Behavior: The One-Year Credit
- For every one full year that you go without receiving a moving violation conviction or having your license suspended, the MVC will subtract 3 points from your record.
- This happens automatically. It's the MVC's way of rewarding consistent, safe driving.
- Important Note: Your point total can never go below zero.
2. Attending a Defensive Driving Program
- You can voluntarily enroll in an MVC-approved Defensive Driving Program. These courses teach safe driving techniques and are available online or in a classroom setting.
- Upon successful completion of the course, 2 points will be removed from your driving record.
- Limitations: You can only receive a 2-point reduction for attending this program once every five years.
Can I choose which violation the points are removed from?
No. The point system is a running total. Reductions from good behavior or a defensive driving course simply lower your overall point total; they do not erase the record of the original violation. The conviction will still appear on your full driving record, which can be seen by insurance companies.
The Probationary Driver Program
If you are a new driver with a Probationary License and you are convicted of two or more moving violations totaling four or more points, you will be required to enroll in the Probationary Driver Program. Completing this program results in a 3-point credit on your record.
Your driving record is a direct reflection of your habits behind the wheel. By understanding the consequences of the point system and taking advantage of the available point reduction programs, you can protect your license, keep your insurance rates manageable, and make the roads safer for everyone.
