As an Uber or Lyft driver in New York City, your driving record is your livelihood. Every trip, every fare, depends on your ability to stay on the road. Understanding the rules regarding points on moving violations is critical because these points can directly impact your ability to earn a living. Increased insurance premiums, license suspension, and even deactivation from your platform are real risks.
Why This Matters More to You:
- Higher Driving Volume: You spend significantly more time on the road than the average driver, increasing your exposure to potential traffic violations.
- Commercial Implications: Your driving record isn’t just a personal matter; Uber and Lyft monitor it closely. Accumulating points can lead to deactivation, cutting off your income stream.
- NYC’s Traffic Challenges: Navigating the city’s congested streets, complex traffic patterns, and aggressive drivers makes it easier to mistakenly commit a violation.
What Are Points on a Driving Record?
Points are assigned to your driving record when you’re convicted of certain traffic violations. The number of points depends on the severity of the offense. For example, speeding tickets are typically less severe than reckless driving or driving under the influence.
New York’s Updated Point System: What You Need to Know (As of March 2025)
Here’s a breakdown of the point system, with specific attention to violations common in NYC:
- 3 Points:
- Speeding 1-10 mph over the limit (Easily done in NYC traffic flow)
- Failure to yield right-of-way (Common in busy intersections)
- Improper passing or lane change (Frequent in tight city lanes)
- Disobeying traffic signals/signs (Including those tricky pedestrian signals)
- 4 Points:
- Speeding 11-20 mph over the limit
- Following too closely (tailgating) (A significant risk in heavy traffic)
- 5 Points:
- Reckless driving (Can be subjective and easily argued in NYC)
- Cell phone use while driving (Even hands-free can be risky and misconstrued)
- School bus violations (e.g., passing a stopped school bus)
- 6 Points:
- Speeding 21-30 mph over the limit
- 8 Points:
- Speeding 31-40 mph over the limit
- 11 Points:
- Speeding over 40 mph over the limit
- Driving with a suspended or revoked license
- Any alcohol- or drug-related driving offense
Consequences for Uber & Lyft Drivers:
- Increased Insurance Premiums: Your commercial insurance rates will skyrocket with points on your record.
- Driver Responsibility Assessment (DRA): 6 or more points in 18 months triggers a costly DRA fee.
- License Suspension: 11 or more points in 18 months = license suspension = no driving = no income.
- Platform Deactivation: Uber and Lyft regularly check driving records. Any significant accumulation of points can lead to immediate deactivation.
- TLC (Taxi and Limousine Commission) Complications: Points can also cause issues with your TLC license.
How Long Do Points Stay on Your Record?
- Points remain on your record for 18 months from the date of the offense.
- The violation itself stays on your record for 4 years, affecting insurance and DMV records.
Protecting Your Livelihood
- Fight Every Ticket!: Don’t assume you have to accept every ticket. Even seemingly minor violations can add up.
- Know your rights: Familiarize yourself with New york state traffic laws.
- Consider Legal Help: A traffic ticket lawyer can help you navigate the system and potentially reduce or eliminate points.
- Document Everything: If you believe you were wrongly ticketed, gather any evidence, such as photos or witness information.
- Dashcams are your friend: A dashcam can provide invaluable evidence in case of disputes.
- Defensive Driving: Take defensive driving courses. These courses can help you improve your driving skills and may even lead to insurance discounts.
Hire an IDG Legal Preferred Lawyer for Discounted Ticket Help
Consulting a traffic attorney specializing in NYC regulations can significantly decrease your chances of accumulating points on your driver’s license. They can help build your case, represent you in court, and negotiate with the prosecutor. Uber & Lyft drivers have access to help from our preferred and trusted ticket lawyer at a highly discounted rate.
Have a ticket today? Fill out a form below, or all our helpline at (646) 687-7587.
