In New Jersey, the seriousness of motorist traffic violations, and the resulting penalties, are tracked by the Motor Vehicle Commission's point system. If you are convicted of a moving violation, MVC will penalize you by adding points to your driving record.

In NJ if you get six or more points within three years on your current driving record, you will be assessed a surcharge. If you get 12 or more points on your current driving record, your license will be suspended. You will receive a notice of scheduled suspension by mail.

You will only get points on your record for moving violations. Points are not assessed for parking and other violations. The NJ MVC keeps a permanent record of all the points a New Jersey driver has earned. It is possible though to earn point deductions by remaining violation and suspension-free for one year or by taking qualified driving courses approved by MVC.

Ways in which to get point deductions:

• One year with no violations or suspensions can result in 3 points being reduced. The year begins on date of violation or most recent license restoration.
• Taking a Defensive Driving Program can result in a 2 points deduction. This may be used to subtract points once every five years.
• Taking a Driver Improvement Program can reduce your point count by 3. This may be used to subtract points once every two years.
• Probationary Driver Program may result in a 3 point deduction.

Your insurance company might not factor these deductions into your insurance rate.

Motor vehicle points can be reduced or deducted from your accumulative point total that counts toward a license suspension however they will remain permanently as part of your New Jersey driving record. For more information on either motor vehicle points or insurance points contact the NJ MVC.