How the System Works and the Consequences of Accumulating Points
In New Jersey, when you’re convicted of or plead guilty to a traffic violation, you can expect to pay a fine. In addition, you may have points added to your driving record.
The Point System in New Jersey
In New Jersey, every moving violation carries a certain number of points, ranging from two to five, based on the type of infraction. (One exception—leaving the scene of an accident involving personal injury—carries an eight-point penalty.) Two points are given for most violations, but a handful will incur five points, including racing on the highway, reckless driving, improperly passing a school bus, tailgating, and exceeding the speed limit by more than 30 miles per hour. Drivers even incur points on their New Jersey driving records for out-of-state moving violations.
The New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission maintains your driving record and can add surcharges to your vehicle registration if you’re convicted of specific offenses or accumulate a certain number of points. Examples of additional fees that apply to specific moving violations include:
- $250-per-year surcharge for three years for driving a vehicle without valid insurance,
- $250-per-year surcharge for three years for driving a vehicle while your license is suspended, and
- $100-per-year surcharge for driving a vehicle without a license or with an expired license.
Furthermore, if you accumulate more than six points within any 36-month period, you will be required to pay a $150-per-year surcharge for three years. Any additional points add another $25 per year.
Once every five years, you can elect to enroll in defensive driving school, thereby taking two points off your driving record.
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For a confidential meeting with an aggressive New Jersey driving violations attorney, call us at 973-315-9080 or contact us online. We are currently available for client consultations via phone or videoconference. We are available to talk with you evenings and weekends, if necessary. We welcome all major credit cards. ¡Nosotros hablamos español!