Points on your license are a real inconvenience for rideshare drivers. They can lead to suspension, raise your insurance rates, and keep you from working. Fear not, there are ways to reduce and even remove points accumulated on your license:
1. Taking a Defensive Driving Class
New York offers defensive driving classes. When taking a class, drivers will receive:
- Reduced Points: Completing a class can potentially remove up to four points on your driver’s license, bringing you closer to a clean record and avoiding suspension.
- Insurance Savings: Completing the class can qualify you for a 10% discount on your auto insurance premiums for three years after finishing the course.
- Payment Incentive: If you are affiliated with a Black Car base, you will receive a check for $300 within 8 weeks after attending the class!
How Can I Take a Defensive Driving Class?
First, make sure you’re eligible. You need a valid New York driver’s license with points assessed within the past 18 months. You can double-check the DMV website for details.
The Independent Drivers Guild (IDG) offers a DMV-approved Defensive Driving Class (DDC6) designed specifically for rideshare drivers. This class is held every Sunday, Monday, Tuesday and Thursday from 10am – 6pm.
Sign up for the class here! You can take this course every 18 months to have points reduced off your license. Once you successfully complete the course, the IDG will notify the DMV. After you’ve taken it, within 10 weeks, you should see the points reduction reflected on your driving record.
2. Point Expiration
Points in New York expire after four years from the violation date. This means they are no longer considered when calculating your license suspension risk. However, it’s important to remember that:
- Insurance companies might still consider the points when calculating your rates for up to three years after the violation.
- Getting new points during the waiting period can still lead to a quicker suspension since all points within the past 18 months are counted.
Hire an IDG Legal Preferred Lawyer to Fight Your Tickets
Navigating court procedures can be tricky. 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.
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