If you’re a driver in New Jersey, you’re likely familiar with the state’s point system for traffic violations. Accumulating too many points on your driving record can lead to serious consequences, including license suspension. But how many points to suspend license in NJ? The answer depends on several factors, including your driving history and the severity of your violations. In this article, we’ll explore New Jersey’s point system, the thresholds for license suspension, and how to reduce points on your record. Whether you’re a new driver or a seasoned one, understanding these rules can help you avoid penalties and keep your driving privileges intact.
What is New Jersey’s Point System?
New Jersey uses a point system to track traffic violations and encourage safe driving. Points are assigned to your driving record based on the type of violation. The more serious the offense, the more points you’ll receive. Points remain on your record for two years from the date of the violation, and accumulating too many can lead to fines, surcharges, and even license suspension.
How Many Points to Suspend License in NJ?
The number of points required to suspend a license in New Jersey depends on the driver’s age and the timeframe in which the points are accumulated. Here’s a breakdown:
1. For Adult Drivers (18 and Older)
- 12 Points: If you accumulate 12 or more points on your driving record, your license will be suspended. The length of the suspension depends on the number of points:
- 12-15 points: 30-day suspension
- 16-17 points: 45-day suspension
- 18-23 points: 60-day suspension
- 24+ points: 90-day suspension
2. For Provisional Drivers (Under 18)
- 6 Points: If you’re a provisional driver (under 18) and accumulate 6 or more points, your license will be suspended until you turn 18. You’ll also need to complete a driver improvement program to reinstate your license.
Common Traffic Violations and Their Point Values
To avoid reaching the threshold for license suspension, it’s important to understand how points are assigned. Here are some common traffic violations and their corresponding point values in New Jersey:
| Violation | Points |
|---|---|
| Speeding (1-14 mph over the limit) | 2 |
| Speeding (15-29 mph over the limit) | 4 |
| Speeding (30+ mph over the limit) | 5 |
| Reckless driving | 5 |
| Failure to stop for a school bus | 5 |
| Running a red light | 2 |
| Improper passing | 4 |
| Driving without a license | 2 |
| Leaving the scene of an accident | 2 |
| Texting while driving | 3 |
Consequences of Accumulating Points
In addition to license suspension, accumulating points on your driving record can lead to other consequences, including:
1. Fines and Surcharges
- Surcharges: New Jersey imposes surcharges for drivers who accumulate 6 or more points in a three-year period. The surcharge is 150forthefirst6pointsand25 for each additional point.
- Fines: Each traffic violation comes with its own fine, which can range from $50 to several hundred dollars.
2. Insurance Premium Increases
Insurance companies often raise premiums for drivers with points on their record, as they are considered higher risk.
3. Driver Improvement Programs
If you accumulate 12 or more points, you may be required to complete a driver improvement program to reinstate your license.
How to Reduce Points on Your Driving Record
If you’re concerned about how many points to suspend license in NJ, there are steps you can take to reduce points on your record:
1. Take a Defensive Driving Course
Completing an approved defensive driving course can remove up to 2 points from your record. You can take the course once every five years.
2. Avoid Additional Violations
Points remain on your record for two years, so avoiding further violations will help reduce your total points over time.
3. Contest Traffic Tickets
If you believe a ticket was issued unfairly, you can contest it in court. If successful, the points and fines may be dismissed.
4. Drive Safely
The best way to avoid points is to follow traffic laws and drive responsibly.
What to Do If Your License is Suspended
If you’ve reached the threshold for how many points to suspend license in NJ, here’s what you need to do to reinstate your driving privileges:
1. Complete the Suspension Period
You must wait out the suspension period before applying for reinstatement.
2. Pay Reinstatement Fees
New Jersey charges a $100 reinstatement fee for most suspensions. Additional fees may apply depending on the reason for the suspension.
3. Complete Required Programs
If your suspension was due to accumulating 12 or more points, you’ll need to complete a driver improvement program.
4. Provide Proof of Insurance
If your license was suspended for driving without insurance, you’ll need to provide proof of coverage (an SR-22 form) to the DMV.
5. Pass a Written or Road Test
In some cases, you may need to retake the written or driving test to prove your knowledge and skills.
Tips for Avoiding License Suspension
To avoid reaching the threshold for how many points to suspend license in NJ, follow these tips:
- Obey Traffic Laws: Follow speed limits, stop signs, and traffic signals.
- Stay Informed: Regularly check your driving record for errors or issues.
- Take a Defensive Driving Course: Even if you don’t have points, completing a course can help you stay safe and avoid violations.
- Address Tickets Promptly: Pay fines or contest tickets as soon as possible to avoid additional penalties.
Conclusion: How Many Points to Suspend License in NJ?
In summary, how many points to suspend license in NJ depends on your age and driving history. For adult drivers, accumulating 12 or more points will result in a suspension, while provisional drivers face suspension at 6 points. Understanding New Jersey’s point system and taking steps to reduce points can help you avoid penalties and keep your driving privileges intact.
If you’re facing a suspension, don’t panic. By fulfilling the reinstatement requirements and driving responsibly, you can regain your license and get back on the road safely.
