How a New Jersey DWI Conviction Affects Your New York Driver’s License

• Dan T. Matrafajlo
• Thu May 2025
• DWI,
• 0

If you’re a New York licensed driver who has been charged with DWI in New Jersey, you may be wondering how it affects your driving record and license back home. While New York and New Jersey are separate states, they share traffic violation information through the Driver License Compact (DLC)—but not everything transfers equally.

Here’s What Transfers—and What Doesn’t:

1. New Jersey Points Do NOT Transfer to New York

New York does not assess points for out-of-state violations, including those from New Jersey. So, if you’re cited for a moving violation in NJ that would typically result in points, you won’t see them added to your NY record. But that doesn’t mean you’re in the clear.

2. Refusal to Take a Breathalyzer in New Jersey Does NOT Transfer

Unlike a DWI conviction, a refusal to submit to a breath test in New Jersey does not trigger administrative penalties or license suspension in New York. However, you will still face significant penalties in New Jersey, including a license suspension within the state.

3. A New Jersey DWI Conviction WILL Transfer to New York

This is critical: a DWI conviction in New Jersey will appear on your New York driving record. The NY DMV treats an out-of-state DWI as if it occurred in New York. This can lead to:

• License suspension or revocation
• DMV-imposed fines
• Increased insurance premiums
• Points toward permanent revocation for repeat offenders

4. New York Convictions DO Transfer to New Jersey

If you’re convicted in New York for DWI, DWAI, or refusal to take a breathalyzer test, New Jersey will treat those offenses as if they happened within its borders for penalty and suspension purposes.

Why This Matters

While certain penalties may not directly transfer between states, the consequences of a DWI conviction in New Jersey are still serious—even for New York drivers. You could face:

• A criminal record
• Mandatory court appearances in NJ
• Substantial fines and surcharges
• Loss of driving privileges in New Jersey (and potentially NY)
• Long-term impact on your job, insurance, and reputation

What You Should Do Next

If you’re a New York driver charged with DWI in New Jersey, don’t take chances. You need a New Jersey-based attorney who understands how to protect your rights in both states.

At Beninato & Matrafajlo, we represent out-of-state drivers facing serious charges in New Jersey courts. We’ll help you navigate the legal system, fight to minimize penalties, and work to protect your New York license.

Call us today at (908) 355-7100 or contact us online for a free consultation. We’ll give you the facts, the strategy, and the legal support you need—right when you need it most.