New York Drivers Face Tougher Penalties Under DMV's Updated Point System

The state's new rules go into effect on Monday, with harsher punishments for offenses like DUI and cell phone use while driving.

Published on Feb. 14, 2026

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The New York State DMV is implementing a revised point system starting on February 16, 2026, which will result in tougher penalties for certain traffic violations. Offenses related to drugs, alcohol, and cell phone use while driving will now carry significantly more points on a driver's license, with the valid period for points increasing from 18 months to 2 years.

Why it matters

The updated point system aims to improve road safety in New York by deterring dangerous driving behaviors. However, the changes have raised concerns about the potential for increased tensions between drivers and law enforcement, as more citations could lead to license suspensions and higher insurance costs.

The details

Under the new rules, a DUI or "aggravated unlicensed operation of a motor vehicle" will result in 11 points on a driver's license, up from no previous penalty. Passing a stopped school bus, speeding in construction zones, and damaging infrastructure like bridges will carry 8 points, while using a cell phone while driving will add 5 points. The threshold for license suspension remains the same, but the valid period for points has been extended from 18 months to 2 years.

  • The new DMV point system goes into effect on Monday, February 16, 2026.

The players

New York State DMV

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

New York State Troopers Police Benevolence Association (NYSTPBA)

A union representing the state's police officers, which released a public service announcement to inform drivers about the new point system changes.

Charles W. Murphy

The president of the NYSTPBA, who cautioned that law enforcement officers may face increased anger from drivers due to the harsher penalties.

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What they’re saying

“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.”

— Charles W. Murphy, President, New York State Troopers Police Benevolence Association (WGRZ)

What’s next

The New York State DMV will begin enforcing the new point system on Monday, February 16, 2026.

The takeaway

The updated DMV point system in New York aims to improve road safety by imposing tougher penalties for dangerous driving behaviors, but it also raises concerns about potential conflicts between drivers and law enforcement as more citations could lead to license suspensions and higher insurance costs.