What happens to my PA License if I get a speeding ticket in NJ?

A:

The penalties for speeding vary from state to state, usually based on how fast you were going at the time you were stopped. If you are ticketed for speeding in your home state, you know what to expect. Unfortunately, if you are from out of state, this can cause some nasty surprises for you when you get home. This is because your home state will reciprocate the penalty based on its own laws, and not those of the state in which the ticket was issued.

• 1-14 mph over the limit: 2 points
• 15-29 mph over the limit: 4 points
• 30+ mph over the limit: 5 points

Pennsylvania gives its citizens a bit of a break, though. They do not assess points for going 5 mph or less above the limit. Then:

• 6 - 10 mph over posted limit: 2 points
• 11 - 15 mph over posted limit: 3 points (plus a 15-day suspension if in a work zone)
• 16 - 25 mph over posted limit: 4 points (plus a 15-day suspension if in a work zone)
• 26 - 30 mph over posted limit: 5 points (plus a 15-day suspension if in a work zone)
• 31+ mph over posted limit: 5 points (plus 15-day suspension if in a work zone, & possible other penalties)

As you can see, for example, a 2 point ticket in New Jersey could be a 3 pointer in PA!  Another trap for the unwary is that pleading to New Jersey’s “no point ticket,” called Unsafe Operation, is a bad idea for PA drivers because it is reciprocated with 2 points.

Have more questions about NJ traffic court?  This article not answer your question?  Get more answers here. You can also get the answers to the most frequently asked questions by downloading my free book, A Guide to Driving Legally in New Jersey and Surviving Traffic Court If You Don't.  It will give you the answers you need all in one place.  Then call me at 888-857-8418 contact me through this site for an appointment for a free consultation to discuss your case.