The New York State DMV’s new license point system goes into effect February 16, and there are some new rules that drivers should be aware of

ALBANY, N.Y. — The New York State DMV’s new point system is starting this Monday, February 16, and there are some new changes to be aware of.

From drug and alcohol offenses to suspended licenses, there are now greater penalties for certain offenses, according to the NYS DMV. The NYS Troopers Police Benevolence Association (NYSTPBA) released a PSA Friday to remind the drivers to be aware of new punishments for traffic offenses.

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The greatest increases in points will come from infractions related to drugs and alcohol. While the offenses did not previously carry any penalty to a license, those who are pulled over for DUI will now receive 11 points on their license. The same penalty will be held for “aggravated unlicensed operation of a motor vehicle.”  

Passing stop school buses, speeding in construction zones, and incidents like over-height vehicle damaging infrastructure such as bridges and tunnels, will carry a penalty of 8 points on a drivers license. In addition, driving while on a cell phone will now add 5 points to a license.

The threshold for having your license suspended is still the same, however the valid period for points has been increased. Under the new rules, points tacked onto a license are now in place for 2 years, the previous window was 18 months.

While the NYSTPBA did release the reminder, they want to remind the public not to “kill the messenger.”

“When an irate driver realizes at the side of the road that a single citation can result in significant points to lose their license and drive up their insurance costs, it is our members who may well face that anger,” NYSTPBA President Charles W. Murphy said in a statement.

“This is why it is imperative that New Yorkers understand the changes that are about to occur.