Points on Driver's License in New Jersey (2026 Guide)
The New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission (MVC) uses a point system to track driving violations. When you commit certain traffic offenses, points are added to your driving record. If you accumulate 12 or more points on your record, your driver's license may be suspended.
Important: Even if you haven't reached 12 points, accumulating points may still lead to insurance surcharges and other penalties.
How to Check Points on License in New Jersey
The quickest way to check points on your license is to order your Driver History Abstract directly through the NJMVC Online Driver Record Request portal. It costs $15.00 and allows you to download and print your record immediately.
Below is the full list of methods to check points on your driving record:
- Online: Visit the NJMVC Driver History Abstract page to request your record. You will need your User ID number, your driver license number, and a credit or debit card to pay the $15.00 fee.
- By Mail: Complete the Application for Driver History Abstract (Form DO-21). Mail the completed form, a photocopy of your driver’s license, and a check or money order for $15.00 (payable to "NJMVC") to: New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission, Abstract Unit (see exact address on the form).
- In-Person: Visit a Motor Vehicle Agency to request your abstract. You must present your driver’s license, a completed Form DO-21, and pay the $15.00 fee. Accepted payment methods include credit/debit card, cash, check, or money order.
- By Phone: The NJMVC does not provide point totals or driving records over the phone. You must use one of the methods listed above to view your specific point balance.
How to Reduce Points
New Jersey offers three main driver programs: the Driver Improvement Program (DIP) is required for experienced drivers who accumulate 12-14 points and can reduce suspension risk and remove 3 points; the Probationary Driver Program (PDP) is mandatory for new drivers who commit multiple violations during their first two years and also removes 3 points; and the Defensive Driving Program is a voluntary course available once every five years that removes 2 points and may provide an insurance discount. Each program serves a different purpose and cannot be used interchangeably.
| Program | Who Needs It? | When It's Required | Duration | Point Reduction | Frequency |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Driver Improvement Program (DIP) |
Experienced drivers (non-probationary) | After accumulating 12-14 points & receiving MVC notice | 3 hours (classroom only) | 3 points | Once every 2 years (by MVC notice only) |
| Probationary Driver Program (PDP) |
New drivers in first 2 years of licensing | After 2+ violations totaling 4+ points | 4 hours (classroom only) | 3 points | Only once during the probation period |
| Defensive Driving Course |
All NJ drivers | Voluntary for point reduction or insurance discount | 6 hours (online or classroom) | 2 points | Once every 5 years |
Below are our top New Jersey defensive driving course recommendations for 2026.
| Provider | Rating | Best for | |
|---|---|---|---|
| I Drive Safely |
4.8
|
Fast Completion | See Price |
| IMPROV |
4.7
|
Comedy Content | See Price |
Note: Full list of Point Reduction Programs and approved providers.
Insurance and Points
Your insurance company may raise your premiums if you accumulate points, even if your license isn't suspended. Each insurer has its own rating system. Check with your provider for specifics.
How Are Points Calculated in New Jersey?
- Points are added only after a conviction or guilty plea to a moving violation.
- Most violations carry 2 to 8 points depending on severity and location (e.g. out-of-state violations may count differently).
For every 12 consecutive months of driving without a violation or suspension, 3 points are automatically removed from your total. You may also remove 2 points by completing an approved New Jersey Defensive Driving Course every five years.
Points for Common Violations in New Jersey
| Violation | Points |
|---|---|
| Speeding 1-14 MPH over the limit | 2 |
| Speeding 15-29 MPH over the limit | 4 |
| Speeding 30 MPH or more over the limit | 5 |
| Reckless driving | 5 |
| Tailgating (following too closely) | 5 |
| Improper passing of school bus | 5 |
| Failure to observe traffic signals | 2 |
| Improper turn at a traffic light | 3 |
| Leaving scene of accident (property damage) | 2 |
| Leaving scene of accident (personal injury) | 8 |
| Improper passing on right or off-road | 4 |
| Careless driving | 2 |
| Failure to yield to pedestrian in crosswalk | 2 |
| Driving the wrong way on a one-way street | 2 |
| Using a handheld phone while driving | 3 |
| Out-of-state moving violations | 2 |
Note: Full list of violations and points for the state of New Jersey.
What Happens If You Accumulate Too Many Points?
If you accumulate 6 or more points within 3 years, you will be subject to a surcharge (a financial penalty that is paid annually until your points fall below the threshold).
If you accumulate 12 or more points, your driver's license may be suspended. The MVC may also require you to attend a Driver Improvement Program as a condition to avoid or lift suspension.
Common Reasons and Suspension Duration in NJ
In New Jersey, the duration of a driver's license suspension depends on the violation or accumulated point total. Here's a general breakdown.
| Reason for Suspension | Typical Suspension Duration |
|---|---|
| Accumulating 12 or more points on driving record | Indefinite until resolved (usually 30-180 days) |
| DUI (first offense) | 3 months to 1 year |
| Refusal to take breathalyzer test | 7 months to 1 year (first offense) |
| Driving with a suspended license | Additional 6 months |
| Reckless driving (court ordered) | Up to 60 days (discretionary by judge) |
| Driving without insurance (first offense) | 1 year |
| Leaving the scene of an accident (with personal injury) | 1 year |
| Underage drinking and driving (BAC of 0.01%-0.08%) | 30 to 90 days |
| Failure to appear/pay fines or surcharges | Until compliance is met |
| Failure to pay MVC surcharges | Until surcharges are paid |
About the Author
When he’s not decoding DMV jargon, you’ll usually find him on a tennis court or cycling up a hill he regrets halfway through.
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