New York Facts
The information below is updated periodically but things often change between updates. Do not rely on this information without checking with another source.
If you see an error, let us know at nma@motorists.org
Points of Interest
All moving violation convictions of New York drivers occurring in the provinces of Quebec and Ontario are reported and recorded in New York. Under special agreements with these provinces, convictions in either are treated exactly as though they occurred in New York. The same is true for drivers from Quebec or Ontario who commit violations within New York.
New York State has strict laws governing illegal possession and transportation of handguns. Law-abiding citizens should therefore be particularly careful since they face severe consequences should they inadvertently violate the state's myriad, technical, anti-gun provisions.
On a divided, multi-lane interstate highway, even if there's a ½-mile median strip, if a school bus is stopped along side the road with its passenger discharge lights on, all lanes of traffic must stop.
Parkways in New York are for passenger vehicles with noncommercial tags only. This includes cars, vans with windows on the side and rear, SUVs and pickups with caps. Pickups without caps are not allowed, even with passenger tags.
Speed Limits
Unless Otherwise Posted
Absolute
 |
|
| Urban | As posted |
| Rural | 55 mph |
| Four-lane highways | 55 mph |
| Interstates | 65 mph |
Speed Limits Enforcement Techniques
Enforced through use of:
|
|
|
| Pacing | Yes |
| Radar | Yes |
| Vascar | Yes |
| Photo Radar | No |
| Aircraft | Yes |
| Laser | Yes |
Tickets
Tickets can be paid in person and some tickets can be paid by mail.
Trial By Declaration Allowed
No
Jury Trial Allowed
|
|
|
| Speeding | No |
| Parking | No |
| Equipment | No |
| DWI | Yes |
Member of Nonresident Compact
Yes
Member of Driver License Compact
Yes
When and Where to File Accident Reports
Accidents involving death, personal injury, or property damage exceeding $1,000 must be reported immediately to the local authorities and within 10 days to the Department of Motor Vehicles, Empire State Plaza, Albany, NY 12228.
Resident Insurance Requirements
Compulsory insurance law and financial responsibility law with security-type law.
Minimum limits: $25,000/50,000/5,000.
No-fault insurance with personal injury protection and property damage protection and uninsured motorists insurance are required.
Regulations
- Open intoxicants are permitted in the vehicle. Consumption by driver or passenger is prohibited.
- The BAC level is .08%.
- "Ability Impaired" is .07% in regards to DWI.
- New York does not have an administrative license suspension law, but does have an implied consent law. The breathalyzer refusal penalty is a minimum 6-month driver's license revocation.
- Rifles and shotguns carried in a vehicle must be unloaded; handguns may not be carried or transported by anyone not posessing a New York license to carry.
- Studded tires are permitted from October 16 to April 30.
- Tire chains are not required.
- New York has a seat belt law with primary enforcement for all occupants. Points are assessed to those who are ticketed.
- New York has a mandatory child restraint law for passengers under 17 years of age. Children under age 5 must use approved car safety seats. Adult safety belt may be used for children ages 5-10 in rear seat only and for children ages 11-16 in all seats.
- New York has a mandatory motorcycle helmet law.
- Registration and insurance card must be carried in the vehicle.
General Information
Telephone: 518/457-3258
Emergency Cellular Phone Number: 911