New York Driver's License Point System
The Driver Violation Point System is how the New York State DMV tracks high-risk drivers and takes action when necessary. Points are added to your driving record for certain traffic violations. If you accumulate 11 or more points within an 18-month period, your driver's license may be suspended.
Keep in mind: The point system isn't the only way to lose your license—other violations or offenses can also result in suspension.
How Are Points Calculated in NY State?
- You must be convicted of the traffic violation before points are added to your record.
- Points are calculated based on the date of the violation, not the date of the conviction.
- Only violations that occurred within the past 18 months count toward your point total.
After 18 months the points for that violation no longer count toward your total for DMV suspension purposes. However, they may still appear on your record and could affect your insurance premiums.
Points for Common Violations in New York
| Violation |
Points |
| Speeding (MPH over limit) |
|
| 1 to 10 |
3 |
| 11 to 20 |
4 |
| 21 to 30 |
6 |
| 31 to 40 |
8 |
| Over 40 |
11 |
| Reckless driving |
5 |
| Failing to stop for a school bus |
5 |
| Improper cell phone use |
5
|
| Texting while driving (portable device use) |
5
|
| Railroad crossing violation |
5
|
| Failure to yield right-of-way |
3 |
| Running a red light |
3 |
| Disobeying a traffic sign (Stop, Yield, etc.) |
3 |
| Unsafe lane change or improper passing |
3 |
| Driving the wrong way or left of center |
3 |
| Leaving scene of a property damage accident |
3 |
| Child safety restraint violation |
3 |
| Inadequate brakes (employer's vehicle) |
2 |
| Most other moving violations |
2 |
| Failure to signal |
2 |
| Improper turn |
2 |
| Disobeying a traffic control device |
2 |
| Tinted windows |
0 |
| No seatbelt (driver/passenger 16 or older) |
0 |
| Unregistered vehicle |
0 |
| Driving without a license |
0 |
| Uninspected vehicle |
0 |
| Faulty equipment |
0 |
Out-of-State Violations
If you're convicted of a traffic violation outside of New York, points are not added to your NY driving record—except if the violation occurred in Ontario or Quebec.
Insurance and Points
Insurance companies use their own systems to determine rate increases. Your driving record, regardless of driver license points, can impact your premium. Contact your insurance provider for specific details.
Point and Insurance Reduction Program (PIRP)
Taking a NY DMV-approved Point and Insurance Reduction Program (also known as a defensive driving course) can:
- Subtract 4 points from your total (for suspension calculation purposes only).
- Prevent license suspension if you're nearing 11 points.
- Save you 10% on your liability and collision insurance premiums.
Note: Points are not physically removed from your driving record.
I DRIVE SAFELY, LLC is the DMV approved I-PIRP sponsor that we recommend.
How to Check Your Points
You can check your point total using the MyDMV "My License, Permit or ID" service. You'll need:
- Your New York State driver license, learner permit, or non-driver ID.
- The ID number and document number from your most recently issued document.
If you've lost your document or recently renewed it, you'll need to wait for the new one to arrive before accessing MyDMV.
Check My Points Through MyDMV