As of February 16, 2026, New York revised critical regulations involving the DMV point system. To read about all the changes, read our article titled “Major Changes to New York DMV’s Point System Starting February 16, 2026“. Some of the changes will have a significant impact on truck drivers and their CDL licenses. While you should know all the laws, we highlight three CDL-relevant changes you should have on your radar.
Work-zone Speeding Ticket (VTL §1180[f]) is now a 8 points
Before February 16, 2026, points from speeding in a work zone were based on how far over the posted work-zone limit you were driving. Now, however, a conviction for Speed in a Construction Zone (VTL §1180[f]) will carry 8 points regardless of how fast you are traveling. And 8 points will subject you to a $450 Driver Responsibility Assessment Fee in addition to any fines and surcharges. More importantly, a “serious traffic violation” under a CDL license is, among other things, speeding 15+ above the posted limit. Now any work zone speed becomes impactful due to it carrying 8 points.
Important nuance: whether you end up with 8 points depends on what you’re ultimately convicted of, not just what happened on the roadside. Consult with an experienced New York traffic lawyer to find out your options to obtain a more favorable outcome.
Over-height / Bridge-strike Tickets (VTL §385[2] and §385[14]) jump from 0 points to 8 points
Before February 16, 2026 these over-height/bridge-strike violations carried 0 points. Starting February 16, 2026: these tickets will now carry 8 points. Overheight violations are triggered when a truck driver operates his or her over-height vehicle over, under, on, or through highways, bridges or highway structures, or strikes of a bridge or highway structure. With 8 points attached, these incidents now create immediate place your license in jeopardy.
DMV’s “look-back” window expands to 24 months
Points from moving violations convictions will now be measured for 24 months. Previously, convictions were held against you for only 18 months. For example, two separate events nearly two years apart may now be counted together when DMV evaluates whether to take action. Therefore, it makes even more sense than ever to consider fighting any moving violations issue to you in New York. Feel free to call us at 212-683-7373 for a free consultation, or just email the front of your ticket(s) to lawyer@nytrafficticket.com.