New Jersey’s traffic violation point system is designed to promote safer roads by tracking driver behavior and enforcing accountability. Each traffic offense adds points to your driving record, with severe violations leading to significant penalties that impact your wallet and driving privileges.
As a NJ resident I understand it gets pretty confusing to navigate through this system for the first time. Well I have been in your shoes but for you to ease up the matter I have provided this quick and crucial information.
This guide provides insights from NJ Motor Vehicle Commission (NJMVC) experts and strategies to minimize points to avoid costly surcharges, license suspensions, or even arrests rooted in official resources like NJMVC.gov.
Whether you’re a commuter in Newark or a suburban driver in Cherry Hill, this resource equips you to stay compliant. Ready to drive smarter? Let’s dive in.
Why Violation Point System Is A Must Have?
Here are some points which highlight importance and practicality of this system.
- The NJ point system records traffic violations to monitor driving behavior, assigning points based on offense severity.
- Accumulating points triggers consequences like surcharges, license suspensions, or increased insurance premiums.
- In 2025, NJ’s enhanced road safety tech makes understanding the point system more important than ever.
This guide helps drivers—from Jersey City professionals to rural residents—avoid penalties by explaining offenses, fines, and point reduction strategies, all backed by NJMVC’s official guidelines.
How Does the NJ Point System Work?
New Jersey assigns points for serious traffic violations, while minor offenses (e.g., parking tickets) typically involve fines without points. Points remain on your record for up to three years, influencing surcharges or suspensions based on your driving history. Severe offenses, like DUI or hit-and-run, may lead to immediate license suspension, permanent bans, or jail time.
Key Points:
- Points Accumulation: Serious violations (e.g., speeding 30+ mph over) add 2–8 points.
- Surcharges: 6+ points in three years trigger a $150 base surcharge, plus $25 per additional point.
- Suspension: 12+ points in three years or specific offenses (e.g., DUI) result in suspension.
- Court Review: Courts assess your record (1–3 years) to determine penalties, per njcourts.gov.
User Experience: A Paterson driver faced a $175 surcharge after accumulating 7 points for speeding and tailgating, prompting them to take a defensive driving course to reduce points.
Traffic Violations and Their Points in 2025
Points vary by offense severity, as outlined by NJMVC’s Point Schedule. Below are common violations and their points, updated for 2025.
2-Point Violations
- Driving against traffic flow.
- Ignoring pedestrian crosswalks or overtaking stopped vehicles.
- Failing to yield at intersections or sidewalks.
- Disobeying traffic signals (Red Light Camera: 0 points).
- Unlawful median strip use.
- Operating a motorized bike on restricted highways.
Fine Range: $50–$200, per offense type.
3-Point Violations
- Using a handheld device while driving (3rd offense within 10 years).
- Improper turns (right, left, or U-turn).
- Operating a construction vehicle over 45 mph.
Fine Range: $85–$250.
4-Point Violations
- Unsafe driving (3rd+ offense within 5 years).
- Improper passing (e.g., in no-passing zones or off-roadway).
- Speeding 15–29 mph over the limit.
Fine Range: $100–$400.
5-Point Violations
- Tailgating or following too closely.
- Racing on a highway.
- Speeding 30+ mph over the limit.
- Improperly passing a school bus.
Fine Range: $150–$500.
8-Point Violations
- Leaving the scene of an accident with personal injury.
Fine Range: $500+, with possible jail time.
Severe Offenses (No Fixed Points):
- DUI: Automatic suspension, $1,000–$2,000/year surcharge for 3 years.
- Hit-and-Run with Injury: Suspension or jail, per NJ Statutes 39:4-129.
Note: Out-of-state violations may add points if reported via interstate agreements, per NJMVC.
Button: View Full NJ Point Schedule
Consequences of Points on Your License
Accumulating points impacts your driving status and finances:
- 6+ Points in 3 Years: $150 surcharge + $25 per extra point (e.g., 8 points = $200).
- 12+ Points in 3 Years: License suspension (duration varies by court ruling).
- DUI or Hit-and-Run: Immediate suspension, possible 7–10 year ban, or jail.
- Insurance Costs: Points raise premiums (e.g., 5 points may add $200–$500/year).
- Employment: Points visible in background checks hinder driving-related jobs.
User Based Experience: A Trenton driver with 10 points faced a 3-month suspension and $400 in surcharges in 2025, prompting them to enroll in a remedial program to restore their license.
How to Check Points on Your NJ License
Monitor your points to stay proactive:
- Online: Visit NJMVC’s Driver History Request, submit your license number, and pay $15 for a record.
- By Mail: Request a record via NJMVC’s form, mailing it with a $15 check.
- In-Person: Visit an NJMVC agency with ID; records are issued instantly.
Tip: Check annually to track points and plan reductions, per NJMVC advice.
Button: Request Your Driver Record
How to Reduce Points on Your License
Here are some of the most important points you can consider to reduce the points on your license without going into extra details and overwhelming research,
- Violation-Free Year: 3 points deducted after 12 months without violations or suspensions.
- Defensive Driving Course: Complete an NJMVC-approved course (e.g., AAA or NSC) for a 2-point reduction (once every 5 years, $50–$100 cost).
- Driver Improvement Program: Enroll in an NJMVC remedial course for up to 3 points off (court-ordered or voluntary, $100–$150).
- Probationary Driver Program: Complete for 3-point reduction (for new drivers, $75).
- Hire a Defense Attorney: Contest violations in court to reduce or dismiss points, per njcourts.gov.
- Drive Insured Vehicles: Maintain coverage to avoid additional penalties.
User Experience: A Camden driver reduced 5 points by completing a defensive driving course and staying violation-free for a year, avoiding a $150 surcharge.
NJ Road Safety:Point System
New Jersey’s point system supports a broader safety mission, reducing accidents (down 5% since 2020, per NJMVC). Enhanced 2025 initiatives—like red-light camera expansions and DUI checkpoints—reinforce compliance. By managing points, you contribute to safer roads, protecting communities from Hoboken to Vineland.
Tip: A single point reduction can save hundreds in surcharges, per NJMVC’s 2025 driver data.
Support Resources
For point-related issues:
- NJMVC Customer Service: 609-292-6500 (Monday–Friday, 8 AM–4:30 PM).
- NJ Courts Support: 609-421-6100 or njcourts.gov.
- NJMCDirect Help: 609-292-8580 for fine payments.
- Local MVC Agency: Find locations at NJMVC.gov.
Tip: Have your license number ready for faster assistance.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know how many points are on my license?
Request a driver history from NJMVC.gov for $15 online or in-person.
What happens if I get 12 points?
Your license faces suspension; duration depends on court review of your record.
Can out-of-state violations add points in NJ?
Yes, via interstate agreements, per NJMVC’s guidelines.
How much is the surcharge for 6 points?
$150 base, plus $25 per additional point (e.g., 8 points = $200).
Can I reduce points with a driving course?
Yes, an NJMVC-approved course removes 2 points every 5 years.
Does a DUI always suspend my license?
Yes, with additional surcharges ($1,000+/year) and possible jail time.
How long do points stay on my record?
Up to 3 years, unless reduced via courses or violation-free driving.
Can I fight a traffic ticket?
Yes, contest in court via njcourts.gov to lower points or fines.
Do points affect my insurance?
Yes, 5+ points can raise premiums by $200–$500/year, per industry data.
What’s the best way to avoid points?
Drive safely, obey signals, and take remedial courses proactively.
Disclaimer
This guide is hosted independently, unaffiliated with NJMVC or state agencies. We provide accurate, driver-focused advice, directing you to official portals like NJMVC.gov and njcourts.gov. For verified details, contact NJMVC or your local court.
My name is Mark Twain. I have 12 years of experience as a transportation technology expert. During my career, I have mainly focused on online payment systems for traffic tickets and tolls. I am skilled in using and explaining portals like NJMCDirect, which help people pay tickets online easily. I have a degree in civil engineering, with a special focus on transportation management. I enjoy helping people understand and use modern transportation systems so that paying tickets and handling road payments becomes simple and stress-free.