Upcoming Changes To The NY Points System
Governor Hochul recently made changes to the New York points system. These changes will have a significant impact on New York drivers.
The changes became effective on November 6, 2024 but the actual implementation date is uncertain. The new regulations do not become enforceable until the thirtieth day following publication in the State Register of notice to the public that the Commissioner has determined that the Department of Motor Vehicles’ systems are prepared to implement the proposed regulatory changes.
The more significant changes are discussed below.
Increased Time Period For Calculating Points
The new regulations increase the time period for accumulating points from 18 months to 24 months. Under the new regulation your license will be suspended if you accrue 11 points in any 24 month period and revoked if you accrue 3 speeding convictions in any 24 month period. The expanded 24 month period, however, does not apply to calculation of the driver assessment. The calculation period for the driver assessment remains at 24 months.
Increased Points For Certain Violations
The new regulations will increase the points assigned to certain violations, some significantly. The increases are as follows.
New 11 Point Violations
Driving with a suspended or revoked license (NY VTL 511 - previously 0 points)
Any other incident of driving with a suspended license (Previously, the underlying violation might have had points but there was no additional point penalty for having been suspended at the time of the violation)
Alcohol- or drug-related driving convictions or incidents including driving while under the influence of alcohol or drugs in violation of NY VTL 1992, driving after having consumed alcohol under the age of 21 in violation of NY VTL 1192-a, and refusing a chemical test under VTL 1194 and VTL 1194-a.
New 8 Point Violations
Failing to stop for a school bus (NY VTL 1174 - previously 0 points)
Overheight vehicle (NY VTL 385(2) - previously 0 points)
Exceeding bridge capacity/clearance (NY VTL 385(14) - previously 0 points)
Speeding in a work zone at any speed over the limit (NY VTL 1180(f) - previously 3-11 points depending on the speed)
New 5 Point Violations
Facilitating driving with a suspended or revoked license (NY VTL 511-a - previously 0 points)
Failing to exercise due care (NY VTL 1146 - previously 2 points)
Unauthorized speed contest (NY VTL 1182 - previously 0 points)
Leaving the scene of an accident with personal injury (NY VLT 600(2)(a) - previously 3 points)
There are some uncertainties regarding exactly how the DMV intends to interpret and implement these new regulations, but there is no doubt that these changes will have a significant impact on New York State drivers. More drivers will be suspended due to the point increases and the expanded 24 month period for accumulating points. More drivers will be subject to the New York driver responsibility assessment.
Contact A Moving Violation Ticket Attorney
Do not plead guilty to your traffic violation without first consulting The Shelton Law Firm. In most cases, your traffic violation attorney can have your appearance waived so that you do not have to show up in court. In addition, we know how to reduce the points and fines associated with moving violations and how to avoid an increase in your insurance rate. Our money back guarantee gives you the confidence and peace of mind to know that we will zealously defend your rights and minimize the points assessed to your license.