Out-of-State Drivers with New York Traffic Tickets

You cannot Ignore a New York Traffic Ticket Even if you are Licensed in another State

As a result of the Driver’s License Compact, all states (except Georgia, Massachusetts, Michigan, and Wisconsin) share information about drivers who are convicted of traffic violations in its jurisdiction. This means that an out-of-state driver’s home state will be notified that they have received a NY traffic ticket. How each state handles out-of-state offenses depends on the local licensing authority.

1.  Your home state can add New York traffic violations to your driving record

Some states apply all NY points to a motorist’s driving record and some assign a different point system based upon the violation.  You must check your local state’s procedure to determine your its policy.

2.  A New York Driver ID will be assigned to you if you don’t have a NY license

If you do not respond to your traffic ticket the following will occur: 

• • You can be found guilty by default and be assessed the maximum fine; and
  • If the fine is not paid, a judgment may be entered against you which will affect your credit rating.

3.  New York will assign points to your NY driving record

Refer to our website for a list of the most common NY traffic violation points

• • If you accumulate 6 or more points, the NY DMV will charge you a Driver Responsibility Assessment; and
  • If you accumulate 11 or more points, the NY DMV will suspend your right to drive in NY

4.  New York can suspend or revoke your right to drive in NY

Although the New York State DMV cannot suspend or revoke an out-of-state license, if you receive too many points, fail to appear in court or fail to pay your fine, your privilege to drive in NY can be suspended or revoked regardless of the state in which you are licensed.  This has several negative consequences:

• • Many states reciprocate the suspension or revocation and you will lose your privilege to drive in your home state;
  • Most states will not renew your license after it expires if you have a suspension or revocation in another state; and
  • If you drive in NY you can be arrested for a misdemeanor called Aggravated Unlicensed Operation 

5.  A New York traffic ticket can impact your out-of-state auto insurance

Many states keep a record of out-of-state convictions.  As a result, a NY traffic conviction can cause an increase in your insurance premium.

As you can see, even if you are licensed in another state, a New York traffic ticket can have many negative consequences if not handled properly.