All the rules of the road you abide by and the procedures at the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) are based on New York's vehicle and traffic law, often referred to as the vehicle code. This legislation sets forth the regulations related to automobile equipment and registration, safe driving, licensing, financial responsibility, minors, auto dealers, and more.
You can refer to the vehicle code to look up an infraction listed on a traffic ticket you received, or simply to refresh your memory of the laws or find out more details about the rules―it's smart to be informed.
If you've recently received a traffic ticket, the New York motor vehicle and traffic regulations statutes may be a useful resource to determine whether or not you'd be able to contest your citation.
On this page you'll find information about accessing the motor vehicle codes which are sometimes referred to as New York insurance codes.
Here is a sampling of the information you'll find in New York's vehicle code, with direct links to partial sections published on the Department of Motor Vehicles' website.
Passing a vehicle on the left or the right.
Vehicles approaching or entering an intersection.
Vehicles approaching traffic circle or island.
Pedestrians' right of way in crosswalks and crossing at places other than crosswalks.
Blind or visually impaired persons.
Operating a motor vehicle while under the influence (DUI/DWI).
Arrest, testing, and evidence in relation to driving under the influence (DUI)-related offenses.
Penalties for drinking and driving if you're underage.
Ignition interlock device program regulations and requirements.
This sections contains information about the operation of vehicles with safety seats and safety belts.
Traffic laws that apply to motorcycles.
Whenever you need or want to check the status of your New York driver's license, you can order a driving record report. This record will spell out if your driver's license is currently valid. Should your license have been revoked or suspended, the report will indicate that according to what's on record at the Department of Motor Vehicles. This report will also show points against your license and, in some cases, information on any accidents you have had.
A driver's license suspension, cancellation, or revocation.
Court fines and penalties, if applicable to your offense.