New York State DMV Point System: Current Rules (Today) vs. Reported February 2026 Changes
- Law Offices of Mark E. Alter
- Dec 5
- 4 min read
New York’s new DMV point system can affect your license, insurance, and job. Below we explain what applies today and summarize reported changes for February 2026 so drivers know what to expect. If you’re facing a ticket or possible suspension, speak with a traffic lawyer Long Island before you plead.
Current NY DMV Point System (Before February 2026)
Current suspension review threshold: 11 points within 18 months (measured from the violation dates, not conviction dates). If you accumulate 11 points in that window, the DMV may take action on your driving privileges.
Common violations & current point values
Speeding 1–10 mph over: 3 points
Speeding 11–20 mph over: 4 points
Speeding 21–30 mph over: 6 points
Speeding 31–40 mph over: 8 points
Speeding more than 40 mph over: 11 points
Reckless driving: 5 points
Handheld / cell phone / texting (portable electronic device): 5 points
Following too closely (tailgating): 4 points
Passing a stopped school bus: 8 points
Important: Points are assigned as of the violation date. Insurance companies use their own underwriting criteria, but convictions and point totals can influence premiums.
How points are counted
18-month look-back (current): DMV counts all points from qualifying violations within the last 18 months.
Out-of-state tickets: Some may transfer; ask a speeding ticket lawyer Long Island how your specific record may be treated.
Commercial drivers: CDL consequences can be more severe depending on the violation and where it occurred.
Reported NYS DMV Point System Changes Expected in February 2026 (Not Yet in Effect)
Multiple reputable outlets have reported that New York approved an overhaul that is expected in early 2026. Until the State publishes the official effective date and updated tables, treat the items below as reported/announced rather than currently enforceable:
Longer look-back: from 18 months to 24 months.
Lower suspension threshold: from 11 points in 18 months to 10 points in 24 months.
Higher point values for several violations and points added to some violations that previously carried none.
Some outlets have listed examples (e.g., higher points for 1–10 mph over, handheld phone use, reckless driving). Because the official DMV tables are not yet posted as of the date above, we are not publishing a full future schedule here. We will update this page the moment New York releases the final, public point table and effective date.
Compliance note: As of today, courts and the DMV still apply the current system (11 points / 18 months and the point values listed above). The 2026 framework is anticipated, not live.
Example of possible changes coming to NYS DMV new point system reportedly on February 2026:
Violation | Current Points | Reported 2026 Points |
Speeding 1–10 mph over | 3 | 4 |
Handheld / cell phone / texting | 5 | 6 |
Reckless driving | 5 | 8 |
Passing a stopped school bus | 5 | 8 |
Equipment defect (e.g., broken lights) | 0 | 1 |
Illegal U-turn | 0 | 2 |
Use this table for today’s guidance. When the State posts the official 2026 table, replace this section with the new schedule and date-stamp the update.
What to Do If You Received a Ticket in New York (Long Island & NYC Area)
1) Don’t plead guilty before you understand your risk
Even a small speed can move you closer to the 11-point threshold under today’s rules. If the reported 2026 framework goes live, the longer window and lower cap will make risk accumulation faster. A traffic lawyer Long Island can evaluate defenses, court options, and plea alternatives.
2) Consider the Point & Insurance Reduction Program (PIRP)
A DMV-approved defensive driving course can reduce up to 4 points used for suspension calculations (it does not erase convictions). It may also help with insurance reductions, depending on your carrier.
3) Use strategy if you drive for work
Commercial drivers, rideshare drivers, and delivery professionals should call a speeding ticket lawyer Long Island to tailor a plan that protects both license and employment.
4) Prepare for New York traffic court
Town, village, and city courts have different calendars, policies, and local practices. An experienced Long Island attorney with New York traffic court in Nassau and Suffolk will know what documentation, calibration proof, and officer availability matter for your case.
New 2026 NYS DMV Point System FAQ's
How many points is speeding 1-to-10 mph over in NY?
Today: 3 points. Some outlets report an increase in February 2026 to 4 points; we’ll update when the State posts official tables.
When do I face a license suspension review in New York State?
Today: 11 points within 18 months may trigger DMV action. The reported new 2026 NYS DMV point system framework references to be 10 points in 24 months, but that is not yet in effect.
How long do points “stay” in my driving record in New York?
For DMV suspension calculations, the look-back is 18 months (currently) from the violation dates. A 24-month window has been reported for February 2026; we will confirm once official materials are posted.
Will a defensive driving course in New York or Long island erase my driving points?
No. In Long Island, NYC or New York State, it can reduce up to 4 points used in suspension calculations and may help with your car insurance bill, but convictions remain on your record.
Worried about points or an upcoming court date? The Law Offices of Mark E. Alter defends drivers in Nassau County, Suffolk County, Queens, Brooklyn, Manhattan, the Bronx and nearby courts. Whether it’s speeding tickets, cell phone, reckless, or DUI DWI matters, a targeted plan can protect your license and livelihood.
Free case review with a traffic lawyer Long Island
Help with New York traffic court procedures
Strategy for speeding ticket lawyer Long Island cases (all speeds)
Guidance for DUI DWI lawyer Long Island issues that overlap with traffic cases
Editor’s Note on Accuracy
This page distinguishes between current law (applied today) and reported 2026 changes (not yet reflected on the NY DMV’s public point tables). We continuously monitor State publications and will update the article upon official release of the effective date and any revised point schedule.
Refer to the New York State Driver Point System on the official NY DMV website here for updates.