New York Increases Penalties for Impaired Driving Violations

DMV to raise point values for serious traffic offenses starting February 16, 2026

Published on Feb. 5, 2026

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The New York State Department of Motor Vehicles (NYSDMV) is increasing point values for serious traffic violations, including excessive speeding and passing school buses, starting February 16, 2026. The changes aim to improve road safety by targeting dangerous drivers, with a focus on repeat offenders. The DMV will also extend the look-back period for administrative actions against repeat offenders from 18 to 24 months.

Why it matters

These new regulations are part of New York's ongoing efforts to crack down on impaired and reckless driving, which pose significant risks to public safety. By increasing penalties for serious violations, the state hopes to deter dangerous driving behaviors and remove high-risk drivers from the roads.

The details

The updated regulations will increase the number of points assigned for certain traffic violations, including excessive speeding and passing school buses, while maintaining existing points for mobile phone violations. The DMV will also extend the look-back period for administrative actions against repeat offenders from 18 to 24 months, allowing them to take action against a wider range of offenses.

  • The new regulations will go into effect on February 16, 2026.
  • In January 2025, a regulation allowing permanent license denial for those with four alcohol- or drug-related convictions became enforceable.

The players

New York State Department of Motor Vehicles (NYSDMV)

The state agency responsible for vehicle registration, driver's licenses, and traffic law enforcement in New York.

Mark J.F. Schroeder

The Commissioner of the New York State Department of Motor Vehicles.

Kathy Hochul

The Governor of New York, who initiated the effort to remove high-risk drivers from the roads.

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What they’re saying

“These updated regulations will have no impact on drivers who follow the rules of the road, but they will have a big impact on dangerous drivers and repeat offenders.”

— Mark J.F. Schroeder, Commissioner, New York State Department of Motor Vehicles (wnyt.com)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

These new regulations demonstrate New York's commitment to improving road safety and holding accountable those who engage in dangerous driving behaviors, particularly repeat offenders. By increasing penalties and extending the look-back period, the state aims to deter impaired and reckless driving, ultimately making the roads safer for all.