New York DMV to Tighten Point System in 2026, Keeping Violations Longer and Lowering Suspension Threshold

New York State is set to roll out a major overhaul of the DMV’s driver point system in early 2026, the first sweeping rewrite in more than 20 years.

Under the update, points will count for 24 months instead of 18, and drivers could face suspension at 10 points within that window, down from today’s 11-point/18-month rule.

The DMV is also raising point values for several common violations like low-level speeding, cell-phone use, and reckless driving and adding points to some infractions that previously carried none, such as illegal U-turns and certain equipment offenses.

• Speeding 1–10 mph over limit: 3 to 4 points
• Cell phone use while driving: 5 to 6 points
• Failure to yield to pedestrians: 3 to 5 points
• Reckless driving: 5 to 8 points
• Following too closely (tailgating): 4 to 5 points
• Running a red light: stays 3 points, but fines go up

Violations that will start carrying points (new)

• Illegal U-turns: 2 points
• Vehicle equipment violations: 1 point per violation
• Failure to move over for emergency vehicles: 3 points
• Obstruction of traffic: 2 points

State officials say the tougher structure is aimed at curbing risky behavior and improving road safety statewide.