As of February 16, 2026, the DMV has enacted new point designations for repeat DWI offenders, and first-time offenders along with other driving offenses.
New Points for DWI Violations
Violations that occur on or after February 16, 2026, will now have the following points: DWIs – 0 to 11 pts regardless of if it is an infraction, misdemeanor, or felony. As of the new regulation, when someone has 11 points on their license, they are subject to an additional suspension in which a client may request a hearing, as well as more driver responsibility assessment fees. However, the new rule has an exception that if the 11 points, within 24 month period, are the result of a single incident, that prevents the automatic suspension. Thus, a plea to a DWI, although 11 points, would not inherently trigger this additional suspension.
New Fees for DWI Violations
Prior to February 16, 2026, when someone is convicted of a DWI they are required to pay $250 for 3 years, totaling $750. Now, someone who is convicted of 11 points within an 18 month period, will have to pay $675 for a 3 year period. Thus, a conviction to a DWI now has the $250 fee for 3 years, and the $675 for 3 years.
Lifetime DMV Reviews
There is still the 25 year look back where the DMV can suspend permanently if someone has more than 3 DWIs + a serious driving offense in 25 years. There is also a lifetime review of four or more alcohol or drug related driving convictions in their lifetime. This moved from five to four.
Additional New Consequences for DWI Violations
New regulation includes clients with youthful offender adjudications can still count towards their lifetime review when prior they were sealed and not considered.
