The effect of a traffic conviction often depends on the driver’s existing record. For a commercial driver, the same conviction can also create a separate federal and state CDL problem.
New Jersey’s Point System
The MVC assigns points to specified moving violations. Examples include:
- careless driving: 2 points;
- reckless driving: 5 points;
- speeding: 2, 4, or 5 points depending on speed;
- tailgating: 5 points;
- leaving the scene: 2 points without personal injury, 8 with personal injury.
Six Points Can Trigger a Surcharge
The MVC states that six or more points accumulated within three years can produce an annual point surcharge. The surcharge starts at $150 for six points, with an additional amount for points above six.
Twelve Current Points Can Trigger Suspension
The MVC states that a current point total of twelve or more can result in a scheduled suspension. A driver receiving a suspension notice may have separate MVC procedures and deadlines in addition to the underlying Municipal Court case.
Point Credits Do Not Erase Convictions
The MVC permits point deductions for periods of safe driving and approved programs, but the underlying conviction remains on the driving history. Insurance companies also do not necessarily treat MVC point deductions the same way the MVC does.
CDL Drivers Have a Separate Exposure
The New Jersey CDL Manual identifies excessive speeding of 15 mph or more, reckless driving, improper or erratic lane changes, following too closely, and several other offenses as “serious traffic violations.” Repeated serious violations can lead to commercial-driving disqualification.
A Personal-Vehicle Ticket Can Matter to a CDL
The MVC specifically warns that enhanced CDL consequences can apply to moving violations committed while driving a personal vehicle, not only a commercial motor vehicle.