How to Get a Copy of Your NJ Driver History Abstract & Get Points Removed from Your License

Here is everything you need to know about getting a copy of your New Jersey Driver’s Abstract and getting points removed from your license in New Jersey.

If you are issued a driving infraction of any kind in New Jersey, it is critical to know the dates of any prior convictions and how many points you have on your license. That is because the dates of prior convictions can affect the penalties associated with any current charges and the accumulation of points can lead to the automatic suspension of your driver’s license.  Knowing your driving history is vital to avoiding any long-term problems with the New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission (NJMVC).

Your Driving Record and Expungement

In New Jersey, your driving “history” or “record” is tracked by the NJMVC in a document called a Driver History Abstract. This is how you or your attorney can tell how many points you have on your license and what prior convictions you may have.

Your driving record cannot be expunged. So if you are convicted of a driving infraction, whether it is a DUI/DWI or otherwise, it cannot be removed or expunged from your record.  This is just another reason why you should consult with an attorney before pleading guilty or “just paying” any ticket.

How to Get a Copy of Your NJ Driver History Abstract

“Permitted Users” may request copies of Driver History Abstracts.  Permitted Users include Attorneys, Employers, Insurance Companies and Agencies, Municipal Courts and Individual Motorists (aka You!)  For purposes of this blog, the information provided is limited to how “you” can get a copy of your own Driver History Abstract.

You can get a copy of your own New Jersey Driver History Abstract Online, by Mail or in Person.

Online: You can go online you can get a copy emailed to you immediately. You will need:

1. Your New Jersey Driver’s number;
2. Your Date of Birth;
3. A picture of your Driver’s License, Passport or other form of ID;
4. Pay the $15.00 fee (and $0.85 service fee) via credit card.

Request the “Non-Certified Driver History Abstract“. Follow the instructions, upload a copy of your Driver’s License or other form of identification and pay the fee. Once your request and payment are approved you will get a passcode protected copy of your New Jersey Driver’s Abstract.

By Mail: Complete a Driver History Abstract application and mail it along with a copy of your valid driver license and a check or money order for the $15.00 fee to NJ Motor Vehicle Commission, Abstract Unit, 225 East State Street. P.O. Box 142, Trenton, New Jersey 08666-0142

In Person: Visit any NJMVC Agency or Regional Service Center and provide the following:

1. Completed Driver History Abstract application
2. Proof of valid photo ID
3. Payment of processing fee ($15.00)

How to Remove Points from Your Driver’s Abstract

Since you cannot get your driving history expunged, your only option is to get points removed from your license.  There are two (2) ways to get points removed from your New Jersey Driver’s abstract. Drive “offense free” for one (1) year or participate in a “remedial program”.

Remain “Offense Free” for One Year:

For every year of offense free driving, the NJMVC will remove three (3) points from your driver’s abstract. If you get a ticket during that one-year time period, even if it is a zero-point ticket, you will have to start the “offense free” time period all over again. The year begins on the date of violation or your most recent restoration.

Remedial Programs:

Defensive Driving Program: This will remove two (2) points from your driver’s abstract and can only be used once every five (5) years.

List of NJMVC Approved Defensive Driver Programs

Driver Improvement Program: A Driver Improvement Program (DIP) will remove three (3) points from your driver’s abstract and may only be used to subtract points once every two (2) years in response to MVC proposed action. The DIP is a classroom course provided by approved New Jersey-licensed providers throughout the State. You will have received a notice in the mail from the MVC giving you the option of taking this course. This program is offered in lieu of a 30-day suspension for drivers who accumulate twelve (12) to fourteen (14) points in more than two (2) years. A $75 administrative fee payable to the MVC is required prior to scheduling a class with a New Jersey-licensed provider. Drivers will be required to pay an additional training fee to the provider for the classroom instruction.

Probationary Driver Program: A Probationary Driver Program (PDP) will remove three (3) points from your driver’s abstract and can only be completed one time when ordered by the MVC.  Drivers that are issued a driver’s license permit for the first time are probationary drivers and will have to serve a two-year probationary period. While in the probationary period, drivers who are convicted of two (2) or more moving violations with a total of four (4) or more points, will receive a Fee Due notice to pay for and enroll in the PDP to correct improper or dangerous driving practices. This program is a four (4) hour classroom program provided by approved New Jersey-licensed providers throughout the state. Up to three (3) points will be removed from your driving record if you successfully complete the program. A $75 administrative fee payable to the MVC is required prior to scheduling a class with a New Jersey-licensed provider. Drivers will be required to pay an additional training fee to the provider for the classroom instruction.

Speak to an Experienced Defense Lawyer Today

 If you are charged with a DUI or any other traffic violation in the State of New Jersey, we can help.  At Rosenberg, Perry & Associates, LLC, we are committed to protecting your rights and advocating on your behalf against any charges that you may be facing. Contact our offices for an appointment today by calling or texting us at (609) 216-7400 or looking us up online.