In New Jersey, points on a driver’s license are linked to traffic violations and offenses committed while operating a motor vehicle within the state. These points can negatively impact a driver’s record and even lead to license suspension if too many are accumulated in a specific timeframe.
How long do points remain on a New Jersey driving record?
Points on a New Jersey driving record do not have a definitive expiration date. However, the New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission (MVC) provides drivers with options to reduce the number of points on their record. For every 12 months a driver remains violation-free, the MVC will remove 3 points from their record, starting from the date of their most recent violation. Drivers can also earn a 2-point reduction once every five years by taking an approved defensive driving course.
It is important to note that accumulating 6 or more points within three years may lead to surcharges, which are annual fines in addition to court fees or other penalties. Incurring 12 or more points on a current driving record can result in license suspension. The MVC will send a notice of scheduled suspension by mail to inform drivers about the imminent suspension.
Ensuring a clean driving record in New Jersey requires drivers to remain vigilant in following traffic laws and avoiding violations. By doing so, drivers can avoid accumulating points, reduce existing points, and maintain a good standing with the MVC.
Common Violations and Their Point Values in New Jersey
This section provides an overview of common types of moving violations in New Jersey and the point values assigned to them by the New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission (MVC). Points are added to drivers’ records for both major and minor traffic offenses, with major offenses usually resulting in a higher number of points.
Speeding and Racing Violations in New Jersey
Speeding and racing violations are taken seriously in New Jersey. The point values assigned to these offenses are as follows:
- Exceeding the maximum speed limit by 1-14 mph: 2 points
- Exceeding the maximum speed limit by 15-29 mph: 4 points
- Exceeding the maximum speed limit by 30 mph or more: 5 points
- Racing on a highway: 5 points
Read: How Many Points is a Speeding in NJ? and Pay NJ Tickets
Improper Passing and Turning Violations
Making improper passing or turning maneuvers while driving can be dangerous and result in points added to your license. Here are some examples:
- Moving against traffic or on a one-way street: 2 points
- Improper passing on the right: 4 points
- Improper turn at a traffic light: 2 points
Accidents, Pedestrians, and Emergency Vehicles Violations
The safety of pedestrians and emergency personnel is crucial. Violations related to accidents, pedestrians, or emergency vehicles include:
- Failure to yield to pedestrians: 2 points
- Failure to yield to emergency vehicles: 2 points
- Leaving the scene of an accident with personal injury: 8 points
Using Cellphone and Other Reckless Driving Behaviors
Using a handheld cellphone while driving can be a significant distraction and is a punishable offense in New Jersey. Other reckless driving behaviors can also result in added points. Some examples are:
- Use of cellphone while driving (third offense and subsequent offenses): 3 points
- Reckless driving: 5 points
- Tailgating: 5 points
- Third-offense driving in an unsafe manner: 4 points
Remember, accumulating too many points on your driving record can lead to surcharges, license suspension, and increased insurance premiums. Drive safely and responsibly to avoid such consequences.
FAQ
How can I reduce points on my NJ driver’s license?
In New Jersey, driver’s license points expire after 3 years. Additionally, you can participate in defensive driving courses offered by the New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission, which may help you reduce points on your license. Completing such courses can remove up to two points from your driving record, depending on the course taken.
How many points lead to a license suspension in NJ?
The New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission implements a point system for traffic offenses. Accumulating 12 or more points on your current driving record can lead to the suspension of your driver’s license. It is essential to be aware of the point values assigned to different traffic offenses and maintain a safe driving record.
What are the common traffic violation codes and fines in New Jersey?
New Jersey assigns point values to various traffic offenses, which can be found in the New Jersey Point Schedule. Some common violations and their respective point values are:
- Speeding up to 14 mph above the limit: 2 points
- Speeding 15-29 mph above the limit: 4 points
- Speeding 30 mph or more above the limit: 5 points
- Following too closely: 5 points
- Careless driving: 2 points
- Reckless driving: 5 points
Fines for these violations vary based on the offense, and the specific fine amount will typically be listed on the traffic citation received. It is crucial to be aware of New Jersey’s traffic violation codes, point values, and corresponding fines to maintain a safe driving record and avoid potential license suspension.