NJ Traffic Ticket Points and MVC Surcharges Explained
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Last verified: October 13, 2026 against njcourts.gov and nj.gov/mvc. Rules and screens can change, so confirm on the official site.
A New Jersey traffic ticket can carry points on your driving record, and enough points can mean a surcharge from the Motor Vehicle Commission (MVC). This guide explains what the MVC publishes. It does not cover insurance prices, which are set by your insurer.
Examples from the MVC points schedule
| Offense | Points |
|---|---|
| Speeding 1-14 mph over the limit | 2 |
| Speeding 15-29 mph over the limit | 4 |
| Speeding 30 mph or more over the limit | 5 |
| Careless driving | 2 |
| Reckless driving | 5 |
| Tailgating | 5 |
| Failure to stop for a traffic light | 2 |
| Improper passing of a school bus | 5 |
| Red light camera violation | 0 (no points) |
This is only a sample. Check the full NJ points schedule for your offense.
When a surcharge applies
The MVC says that if you collect six or more points within three years of your last posted violation, you get a $150 surcharge plus $25 for each point over six. A points surcharge can be billed every year for three years.
The MVC also states that the three-point safe driving credit and the two-point reduction for a defensive driving class do not reduce the point total used for a surcharge.
How surcharges are paid
You receive a billing notice. The MVC says surcharge payments go through NJSVS, not the MVC, and that payment plans are available as described on the bill. Their toll-free number is (844) 424-6829. Unpaid surcharges can lead to collection action.
Paying vs pleading
Paying a ticket means pleading guilty, which can lead to points. Before paying, read pay or plead not guilty.
Related guides
See also: NJMCdirect: what it is and how to pay a NJ traffic ticket online.
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