The New York Point System Explained: How to Keep a Clean Driving Record
When you get your New York State driver's license, you are automatically subject to the Driver Violation Point System. This is the method the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) uses to identify and take action against high-risk drivers. When you are convicted of a moving violation, the DMV adds a specific number of "points" to your driving record.
It's a system where your goal is to have a score of zero. Accumulating too many points in a short time can lead to expensive fines, dramatically increased insurance rates, and ultimately, the suspension of your license. For every driver in New York, understanding how this system works is essential for protecting your driving privilege.
How the NYS Point System Works
The concept is straightforward: the more serious the traffic violation, the more points are assigned to it. These points are calculated based on the date of the violation, not the date you are convicted in court.
The critical number to remember in New York is 11.
If you accumulate 11 or more points within any 18-month period, the DMV will take action, which may include suspending or revoking your driver's license.
The 18-month period is a "rolling" window. This means that to calculate your point total, the DMV looks back 18 months from the date of your most recent violation.
Do all tickets carry points?
No. Non-moving violations like parking tickets or equipment violations (e.g., a broken taillight) do not add points to your record. The system specifically targets moving violations—actions you take while driving that break traffic laws. Very serious offenses, like DWI, often result in immediate license suspension or revocation and are handled separately from the standard point system.
Common Traffic Violations and Their Point Values
While there are dozens of violations that carry points, being familiar with the values for common offenses shows how quickly they can add up.
| Violation | DMV Points |
|---|---|
| Speeding (mph over posted limit) | |
| 1 to 10 | 3 |
| 11 to 20 | 4 |
| 21 to 30 | 6 |
| 31 to 40 | 8 |
| More than 40 | 11 |
| Reckless driving | 5 |
| Failure to stop for a school bus | 5 |
| Following too closely (tailgating) | 4 |
| Inadequate brakes | 4 |
| Failure to yield right-of-way | 3 |
| Disobeying a traffic control signal, stop sign, or yield sign | 3 |
| Improper passing, unsafe lane change | 3 |
| Driving left of center, driving in the wrong direction | 3 |
| Use of a portable electronic device ("texting") | 5 |
As you can see, just two tickets—one for speeding 25 mph over the limit (6 points) and one for texting while driving (5 points)—is enough to trigger a license suspension hearing.
The Consequences of Accumulating Points
The penalties for gaining points are progressive and can be severe.
Driver Responsibility Assessment (DRA) Fee:
- If you receive 6 or more points from violations committed within an 18-month period, you will be required to pay a Driver Responsibility Assessment fee.
- This is an annual fine you must pay for three years. The fee starts at $100 per year for 6 points, and increases by $25 per year for each additional point.
- Failing to pay this fee will result in the suspension of your license.
License Suspension Hearing:
- If you accumulate 11 or more points in an 18-month period, the DMV will mail you a notice and schedule you for a hearing.
- At the hearing, a judge will decide whether to suspend or revoke your license. If you do not appear at the hearing, your license will be suspended automatically.
Beyond the DMV, accumulating points will almost certainly cause your automobile insurance premiums to skyrocket, as insurers view drivers with points as a much higher risk.
How to Reduce Points on Your Record
The good news is that points do not have to be permanent. New York provides a clear path for drivers to reduce their point total and improve their record.
The Point and Insurance Reduction Program (PIRP)
- You can voluntarily complete a DMV-approved PIRP course, also known as a defensive driving course. These are available online or in a classroom setting.
- Point Reduction: Upon successful completion of the course, the DMV will reduce your active point total by up to 4 points. This means that if you have 10 points, completing the course will reduce your "active" total to 6 for the purpose of calculating a suspension.
- Important Note: The course does not erase the convictions from your record. The violations will still appear on your driving abstract and can be seen by insurance companies. It only subtracts points from the total used for suspension calculations.
- Insurance Reduction: Completing a PIRP course also provides a mandatory 10% reduction in your auto liability and collision insurance premiums for three years.
- Frequency: You can take the course for point reduction once every 18 months.
Your driving record is a direct reflection of your choices behind the wheel. By understanding the consequences of the point system and proactively taking a PIRP course when needed, you can protect your license, save money, and make New York's roads safer for everyone.
