How the points work
Points increase in bands as the alleged speed over the limit rises. A high-speed charge can carry a large enough number that a single ticket brings a driver close to the eleven-point suspension threshold.
The DMV schedule assigns 3 points for 1–10 mph over the limit, 4 for 11–20, 6 for 21–30, 8 for 31–40, and 11 for more than 40. Speeding in a work zone carries 8 points. Under the current rules, 11 points within 24 months may lead to suspension.
Three qualifying speeding and/or misdemeanor traffic violations committed within 18 months require revocation under VTL §510(2)(a)(iv). The DMV driver manual states a minimum six-month revocation. This rule operates separately from points.
Why the charged speed matters more than the actual speed
The points follow the speed written on the ticket. Where a charge can be negotiated down into a lower band — or to a non-moving violation — the consequences change substantially even though the underlying incident does not.
That is the practical work in a speeding case. Not usually a trial about whether you were speeding, but a question of what the disposition ends up being.
Where the speed came from
How the speed was measured can matter: radar, laser, pacing by a following vehicle, or an officer’s visual estimate. Each has requirements around calibration, training, and conditions. Whether any of that helps depends entirely on the specifics, and it is not the main route to a good outcome in most cases — but it is worth someone looking.
What it costs beyond the fine
- Points, which accumulate toward suspension
- Insurance, which may increase under the insurer’s own rating rules
- The DMV assessment at 6 or more points within 18 months, separately from the 24-month suspension calculation
- Possible suspension at 11 points within 24 months, or mandatory revocation for three qualifying speeding/misdemeanor traffic violations within 18 months
If you hold a CDL
Separate and stricter rules apply, and some dispositions available to other drivers are not available to commercial drivers. If you drive commercially, get advice before doing anything with the ticket — including before paying it.
Frequently asked questions
How many points is a speeding ticket in New York?
Ordinary speeding carries 3, 4, 6, 8 or 11 points, depending on the speed over the limit. Work-zone speeding carries 8. Points follow the conviction; 11 within 24 months may lead to suspension.
What happens if I get three speeding tickets?
Three qualifying speeding and/or misdemeanor traffic violations committed within 18 months require revocation, independently of points. Three tickets alone are not three convictions; review the dates and dispositions.
Can a speeding ticket be reduced?
Often, depending on the charge, the court, and your record. A reduction to a lower band or to a non-moving violation changes the points and the insurance consequence.
Should I just pay it?
Paying is a guilty plea and accepts every consequence that follows. For a minor overage on a clean record it may be reasonable. For a high-speed charge, an existing point balance, or a CDL, it usually is not.
Does a speeding ticket affect insurance?
A conviction can affect premiums. Insurers have their own rating rules, so the effect depends on the conviction and driving record.
Related: Traffic Tickets & Violations · DWI Defense · back to Criminal & Traffic Defense
Written by Dale Riedel, Esq. · Admitted in New York, Bar No. 5837539 · Last reviewed October 6, 2026