Updated—Although not yet implemented, effective November 6, 2024: New York’s DMV announced that it would be extending the look-back period for moving-violation points from 18 months to 24 months, meaning points would remain on your record longer and increase the likelihood of hitting suspension thresholds. Additionally, when this law is placed in effect, illegally passing a stopped school bus (VTL § 1174[a]) will result in 8 points (up from 5), and trigger a Driver Responsibility Assessment Fee (DRAF) of approximately $450 or more. As of 9/1/25, this new law has not been implemented.
We’re often asked about New York school bus violations under VTL § 1174(a) which law is aggressively enforced to protect children entering and exiting school buses.
How much is a ticket for passing a school bus?
- Before Nov 6, 2024: First-time violations carried 5 points and a $250–$400 fine. Second convictions ranged from $600 to $750, and a third ranged from $750 to $1,000.
- Now: The base fine structure remains, but the violation carries 8 points and triggers the DRAF, starting at roughly $450+, depending on your total points.
Note: The standard $88 or $93 New York State surcharge on moving violations still applies. If you hit 6 or more points within an 18-month period, you are subject to a Driver Responsibility Assessment Fee (on top of the fine and surcharge) in the amount of $300 plus $75 per point over six. You can pay this fee in one payment or in one-third payments over 3 years.
Additional consequences:
- License revocation: A conviction within three years of another may result in a 6-month license revocation, plus reinstatement fees.
- Jail time: Judges can still impose up to 30 days in jail for a first offense, and up to 180 days for repeat violations even though such sentences are rare.
- Insurance impact: While a single school bus violation will raise your premium if your driving record is otherwise clean, a second moving violation conviction can result in your rates being increased. A Driver Safety Class (PIRP) can reduce insurance rates by 10%, and also deduct up to 4 points from your driving record total, but only for violations aging within 18 months.
Summary – Key Updates
| Violation & Date | Points Assigned | Base Fine | DRAF / Fees | Other Consequences |
| Pre-Nov 6, 2024 – 1st offense | 5 points | $250–$400 | Surcharge + DRAF if ≥6 pts | Possible jail up to 30 days |
| Post-Nov 6, 2024 – 1st offense | 8 points | $250–$400 | ~$450+ DRAF | Same jail possibility, extended look-back period |
| Repeat offenses (within 3 yrs) | 8 points | $600–$1,000 | Higher cumulative DRAF | Up to 6-month revocation; insurance hikes |
Takeaway: The penalties for passing a stopped school bus are significant. Always stop for school buses (regarding if you are overtaking or passing) and, if you are issued a traffic ticket, feel free to contact us for a free consultation.