How Many Points Will Be Added to Your Driving Record for a Moving Violation in New Jersey?

About 41 million people in the United States receive a speeding ticket each year, which accounts for just over 20 percent of all licensed drivers. Although speeding and other traffic violations are certainly common, the penalties are often severe and may include fines, court costs, surcharges, and even prison.

You can also expect points to be added to your driving record by the New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission (MVC). If your record collects enough points, you will face a driver’s license suspension.

Although your driving record is permanent and cannot be expunged, it is sometimes possible to get points deducted. If you would like to learn how to get points deducted from your driving record, or if you were charged with a traffic offense and you want to learn about possible defense strategies, contact my office to discuss your case. Call 973-453-2009 to speak with an Elizabeth traffic ticket lawyer from the Law Office of Eric M. Mark.

The Number of Points Depends on the Specific Offense

There are many different types of traffic violations, and the number of points that are added to your record will ultimately depend on the type of offense you committed. Below is a list of common traffic violations and the corresponding number of points:

• Not stopping at a traffic light: 2 points
• Leaving the scene of an accident that did not result in injury: 2 points
• Careless driving: 2 points
• Speeding 1 to 14 mph over the limit: 2 points
• Unsafe lane change: 2 points
• Improper turn: 3 points
• Improper passing: 4 points
• Improperly passing a school bus: 5 points
• Tailgating: 5 points
• Speeding 30 mph over the limit: 5 points
• Reckless driving: 5 points
• Leaving the scene of an accident that resulted in injury: 8 points

For certain violations, points can only be added to your driving record if you are a repeat offender. For example, it is illegal to drive while using a hand-held cell phone, but points will not be added to your record for a first offense. However, if you are convicted for a third time within 10 years of your second conviction, three points would be assessed.

Your driver’s license will be suspended if you collect 12 points.

Can Points Be Added to Your Driving Record for an Out-of-State Moving Violation?

Yes. The MVC can add two points to your driving record for out-of-state moving violations.

How Do You Get Points Deducted from Your Driving Record?

There are several ways to get points deducted from your driving record. These include:

• Completing the Driver Improvement Program (3 points removed);
• Voluntarily taking a defensive driving course that has been approved by the MVC. You can only get this deduction once every five years. (2 points removed); and
• Going one full year without a moving violation (3 points removed).

If you were charged with a moving violation, contact my office to discuss how to resolve your case in the most favorable way possible. Call 973-453-2009 to speak with an Elizabeth moving violation attorney from the Law Office of Eric M. Mark.