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Driver Violation Point System

The DMV "point system" helps identify drivers who commit several traffic violations in a short period of time. It is important to note that this system is NOT THE ONLY basis for suspending or revoking driver licenses. For example, three speeding violations in 18 months or a single DWI violation will result in mandatory revocation, regardless of points.

The point system identifies "persistent violators."  While each violation is not in itself serious enough to require license suspension or revocation, several violations may indicate that action should be taken.

How Your Point Total is Calculated

Your point total at any given time is based on points you received within the past 18 months, based on the date the violation(s) occurred. Once 18 months have passed from the violation date, the points for that violation no longer count toward your total. While a conviction is required for the points to go on your record, the conviction date is not used to determine your point total. DMV's computer system automatically calculates your point total.

Don't confuse points with conviction records. While points are no longer counted toward your total after 18 months from the violation date, the conviction itself does not go off your record after 18 months. A conviction, and the points related to it, are listed on your driving record during the year the conviction happened and the three years after.

If you receive:

• 11 or more points in 18 months, you will be notified of a license suspension. You may request a DMV hearing ONLY to show that the convictions in question were not yours. You may not re-argue the convictions or request the suspension be waived based on mitigating circumstances.

Please note that insurance companies may also have "point systems" of their own. These have no relationship to, and should not be confused with, the DMV point system.

Out-of-State Violations. DMV does not record out-of-state violations committed by NYS drivers in other jurisdictions, except for out-of-state alcohol or drug-related violations (e.g. DUI) and moving violations committed in Quebec and Ontario. Therefore, except for violations in Ontario and Quebec, points are not added to your NYS record for out-of-state violations.