Drivers in New York state should be familiar with how points are assigned against their driver’s license for traffic violations. The number of points for many violations has either increased or is about to in 2026.

Key updates include extending the point accumulation period from 18 to 24 months, increasing points for major offenses such as DWIs (11 points) and passing a stopped school bus (eight points) and assigning eight points to all speeding violations in a construction zone regardless of how fast over the limit you are. Additionally, a driver can now face permanent license revocation after four alcohol or drug-related convictions.

Some changes in effect include:

¯ Permanent license revocation for impaired driving now occurs after four alcohol or drug-related convictions, down from five.

¯ Under Aggravated Unlicensed Operation (Angelica’s Law), the charge of first-degree aggravated unlicensed operation can now be triggered with just five suspensions, reduced from 10.

Further changes are expected to be enforceable in early 2026 once the necessary systems are in place. These include:

¯The point accumulation “look-back” period for potential suspension will be extended from 18 to 24 months, meaning 11 or more points within 24 months could lead to suspension.

¯ Penalties for young drivers will be updated to include alcohol or drug-related convictions, regardless of “youthful offender” status.

¯ Point values for several offenses will increase, including, but not limited to: Driving While Intoxicated (DWI) 11 points; passing a stopped school bus eight points; and Aggravated Unlicensed Operation 11 points.

Drivers face a higher risk of license suspension due to the longer look-back period and increased point values for certain violations. Points can lead to higher insurance premiums and a Mandatory Driver Responsibility Assessment (DRA) and fee.

A DRA fee is paid over three years for serious traffic violations. You could be assessed the DRA fee if you are convicted of an alcohol or drug-related driving offense, refuse a chemical test or accumulate six or more points on your driving record.

It is evident that NYS is getting serious about drivers who continue to exhibit dangerous driving habits. If you are a conscientious driver and obey the rules of the road you need not worry. If you are a flagrant violator, you have been forewarned.