Drivers across New York face stiffer penalties for serious driving violations starting Feb. 16.
The changes could lead to suspended driving privileges more quickly for dangerous drivers.
New and increased point values for infractions are in effect that can make it more likely for a risky driver to lose their license. Triple A of Western and Central New York spokesperson Elizabeth Carey said certain driving will be more costly.
“Passing a school bus will go from five points to eight points,
Carey said. "Racing vehicles will go from no points to five points. And alcohol or drug impaired convictions will now carry 11 points on a driver's license.”
Points are also greater for speeding in construction zones, leaving the scene of a crash, and other driving behaviors. A driver can lose their license after getting 11 points over a 24-month time-frame. That look-back period was also extended from 18 months.
The Department of Motor Vehicles explained the changes are to keep persistently dangerous drivers off the roads.
“These updated regulations will have no impact on drivers who follow the rules of the road,” said DMV Commissioner Mark J. F. Schroeder.“ But they will have a big impact on dangerous drivers and repeat offenders whose poor choices always put other drivers, passengers, and pedestrians at risk.”
Triple-A supported the changes, Carey noted that risky behaviors like driving distracted, speeding, or driving while impaired lead to thousands of injuries and deaths every year.
“So AAA is hoping that these changes with the DMV will alert bad drivers that they need to change their habits," Carey said. "Meanwhile, safe drivers who follow the rules of the road shouldn't be affected whatsoever.”
These drivers license points changes come after a 2023 proposal, which included public feedback. Another measure from that process became law in 2025, the possible permanent loss of license after someone has 4 instances of driving while under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
Some points will not change, including the five points for any violation involving a phone or electronic device, and no points for equipment violations.
Details about the point system for all driving infractions can be found online at dmv.ny.gov.
