BUFFALO, N.Y. — The New York State DMV has a new point system on the way for drivers that increases the point penalty for certain violations.
The state proposed these changes last year to get high-risk drivers off the road. So starting in February of 2026, you will get more points for certain violations associated with dangerous driving.
A New York State DMV spokesperson confirmed the changes Monday afternoon but said no one was available for an interview.
Meanwhile, a spokesperson for the Erie County Clerk's Office says the changes won't happen until February 2026. His office told 2 On Your Side that the only exception is that early next year if you're convicted of an alcohol or drugged driving charge four times, your driver's license will be permanently revoked. Right now, you'd have to be convicted five times for that to happen.
2 On Your Side talked with an attorney who specializes in traffic law about these changes.
"Watch your speed, be careful in all zones, pay attention to posted speed limits," said attorney Adam Rosenblum.
Future changes to the New York State DMV's point system include eleven points for a DWI, eight points for passing a stopped school bus instead of five, and instead of having a scale of points for speeding in a construction zone, all construction zone speeding tickets will start at eight points.
"So even if you are hit going only ten miles over the limit, which previously only would have been a three-point offense, now it's an eight-point offense," said Adam Rosenblum.
The state is also expanding the look-back period for the number of points it takes to potentially suspend your license. Right now, if you get eleven points in 18 months, you could have your license suspended. The changes coming down the line expand that time frame to 24 months.
"Naturally, it will give people greater incentive to seek a plea bargain of their tickets because of the tacking period getting extended," said Adam Rosenblum.