New York has updated its traffic laws in 2025, introducing stricter penalties to ensure safety on the roads.

What are the new New York Traffic Laws in 2025?

  • Stricter DWI Penalties
    • “Forfeit After Four” Rule: If a driver has four or more alcohol- or drug-related driving convictions or incidents in their lifetime, including convictions for refusing a chemical test, the DMV will impose a permanent license denial.
    • Expanded Permanent License Denial: If a driver has three alcohol- or drug-related driving convictions or incidents within the 25-year look-back period and at least one serious driving offense (such as a fatal accident, a driving-related Penal Law conviction, or multiple high-point violations), they are also subject to permanent license denial.
  • Stricter Re-licensure Rules:
    • If you have three alcohol- or drug-related driving convictions in the past 25 years and no serious offenses (like fatal accidents or major violations), the DMV will deny your application for a new license for at least two years.
    • After the two-year wait, you may apply for re-licensing, but if approved, you’ll have restrictions on your license for another two years, such as limits on the types of vehicles you can drive.
    • If you are already revoked for a DWI and have three alcohol- or drug-related convictions within the 25-year look-back period, you must wait at least five years before applying for re-licensing. After the five-year waiting period, the DMV may still deny your application unless it deems you eligible for re-licensing.
    • Even after the five years, if your license is restored, you may face restrictions like using an ignition interlock device and having limited driving privileges for another five years.
    • These rules are codified in the New York Code, Rules, and Regulations, 15 NYCRR § 136.5. They reflect the DMV’s discretionary authority under the Vehicle and Traffic Law to promote road safety and address high-risk drivers.
  • New Point System Rule: The DMV updated its point system to enforce tougher penalties for dangerous driving. Here is the latest point system:
    • Offenses that result in 11 points:
      • Speeding more than 40 mph over the posted limit.
      • Driving with a suspended or revoked license, including convictions under VTL § 511 (Aggravated Unlicensed Operation).
      • Any alcohol- or drug-related driving conviction or incident.
    • Offenses that result in 8 points:
      • Speeding more than 30 but no more than 40 mph over the posted limit.
      • Passing a stopped school bus.
      • Operating or moving a vehicle in violation of height restrictions (e.g., hitting a bridge or highway structure).
    • Offenses that result in 6 points:
      • Speeding more than 20 but no more than 30 mph over the posted limit.
    • Offenses that result in 5 points:
      • Reckless driving.
      • Using a mobile telephone or portable electronic device while driving.
      • Violations involving a railroad crossing.
      • Facilitating (enabling or allowing) Aggravated Unlicensed Operation (AUO) under VTL § 511-a.
      • Failure to exercise due care under VTL § 1146.
      • Participating in a speed contest or race under VTL § 1182.
      • Leaving the scene of a personal injury accident without reporting.
    • Offenses that result in 4 points:
      • Speeding more than 10 but no more than 20 mph over the posted limit.
      • Following too closely (tailgating).
      • Inadequate service brakes, unless committed by an employed driver during their course of employment.
    • Offenses that result in 3 points:
      • Speeding 10 mph or less over the posted limit.
      • Failing to yield the right-of-way.
      • Disobeying traffic control signals or stop/yield signs.
      • Improper passing, unsafe lane changes, driving to the left of the centerline, or driving in the wrong direction.
      • Leaving the scene of a property damage accident or an accident involving injury to an animal without reporting.
      • Failing to use child safety restraints for children under 16 years old.
    • Offenses that result in 0 points:
      • Violations related to vehicle registration, licensing, or insurance.
      • Violations involving motor vehicle inspections, weight or size restrictions, or equipment (other than brakes).
      • Parking violations.
      • Pedestrian or bicycle violations.
      • Violations related to business activities under the VTL or local law.
      • Offenses unrelated to the operation of a motor vehicle.
      • Improper use of High Occupancy Vehicle (HOV) lanes in Suffolk County on the Long Island Expressway.

Other New York State Traffic Law Changes in 2025

  • Congestion Pricing: Starting January 5, drivers entering certain areas of New York City will be charged to reduce traffic and emissions. Vehicles entering Manhattan south of and including 60th Street will pay a base toll of $9. Tolls will vary based on the type of vehicle, time of day, whether any crossing credits apply, and the method of payment. More details can be found online at new.mta.info.

At LaMarche Safranko Law, our team of defense lawyers will carefully evaluate the specifics of your situation, inform you of your legal rights, and help you determine the best course of action if you are charged with any offense. If you have been charged with a crime don’t waste time, call 844-Accused.