The New York Department of Motor Vehicles site notes that the Point and Insurance Reduction Program (PIRP), approved by the DMV, is available through private companies or corporations, called "course sponsors," throughout New York State. Each qualifying course must meet strict standards for the safe driving information. If you complete an approved PIRP course it can help you by:

• It will help refresh your driving knowledge with a review of time-tested safe driving tips and an overview of today's vehicle and traffic laws.
• You may be eligible to reduce as many as four (4) points on your driving record. The DMV computer will automatically note your eligibility to receive the reduction.
• If you are the principal operator of a motor vehicle, you will receive a minimum 10 percent reduction in the base rate of your automobile and motorcycle liability and collision insurance premiums each year for three years.

The DMV site specifically notes that with regard to the reduction of points, you cannot use the course as a credit against future driver violation points. Thus it would appear that the Safety Driving course you previously took 10 months ago would not now be able to reduce the new points being added to your driving record for this speeding ticket.

The NYS DMV also states that points may be reduced only once in any 18-month period. Point reduction applies only to points assessed for violations that occurred within the eighteen months immediately before course completion. It does not affect points for earlier violations, and cannot be used as "credit" against future violations or points.

The DMV point system and insurance company "point" systems are separate and not related. Point reduction on your driving record does not affect points assigned by your insurance company for violations and accidents.