VTL 516: How Your Driving Violations Will Affect You

It is important for all drivers to be aware of the vehicle and traffic laws in their state. If you live in New York or New Jersey, you should be informed about VTL 516, which is commonly known as the "Driver License Compact".

VTL 516 states that because "the safety of streets and highway is materially affected by a driver's degree of compliance with state driving ordinances and that violation of those laws by a driver is evidence that the driver regularly engages in unsafe behavior while operating a motor vehicle", states in agreement with the VTL 516 Compact will report driving convictions that occur in other states to the driving authority of the person's home state. For example, if a New York driver is convicted of a DUI in New Jersey, it will affect his license at home in New York just as if it had occurred in New York.

Other convictions that are mandatory to report in VTL 516 States include manslaughter or negligent homicide, DWI, any felony in the commission of which a motor vehicle is used, and failure to stop and render aid in the event of a motor vehicle accident which results in the death of personal injury of another.



This means that New York drivers should be cautious if they commit any driving violations in New Jersey. As a result of VTL 516, offenses committed in New Jersey can and will be reported to New York and will have an effect on your New York driving license. Furthermore, even if the driving points do not transfer back to New York, your car insurance company may informed of any violations you commit, which may increase your insurance payment.

VTL 516 also mandates that the driving licensing agency, upon receiving an application for a driver's license, must first determine whether an applicant has ever held or is currently the holder of a driver's license in another state. VTL 516 instructs the licensing agency to deny the license request if the applicant has a suspended or revoked license in another state. This means it is no longer possible to "get around" having a suspended license by applying for one in a neighboring state.

For these reasons, it is important that you contact an experienced attorney if you commit a driving or traffic violation of any kind. These violations can have serious consequences on your driving privileges. If you have questions or concerns, feel free to call my office at 718-317-5007.

- Kevin P. McKernan