New Jersey’s unique surcharge system imposes additional fees on drivers for certain traffic violations and excessive points. This guide explains what the NJSurcharge is and provides clear instructions on available payment options.
The NJSurcharge program functions separately from regular traffic fines and court fees. Drivers with violations like DUI or driving uninsured face steep annual surcharges payable over 3 years. Even accumulated points can trigger charges.
This article lays out all key aspects in a structured fashion to eliminate confusion and anxiety. Actionable advice empowers readers to remit payments properly. Installment plans provide financial flexibility.
| Violation Type | Annual Surcharge (3 Years) |
| DUI 1st or 2nd Offense | $1,000 |
| DUI 3rd Offense (in 3 years) | $1,500 |
| Driving While Suspended | $250 |
| Driving Uninsured | $250 |
What is the NJSurcharge System?
New Jersey’s unique surcharge system generates significant revenue through fees intended to improve public safety. The point system for traffic infractions and set penalties aim to curb offenses by attaching financial consequences.
All licensed drivers face accountability. The Motor Vehicle Commission (MVC) administers annual billings over 3 years. Although bankruptcy may not relieve drivers of their surcharge responsibilities, as mandated by New Jersey law (N.J.S.A. 17:29A-35).
Purpose and Function
- Deter Unsafe Driving: The primary goal is promoting roadway safety
- Revenue Generation: Funds various MVC programs
- Accountability: Holds drivers responsible for actions
Who Pays New Jersey Surcharges?
New Jersey residents and drivers with out-of-state licenses may confront surcharges if particular infractions transpire. Accountability applies universally per state statutes enacted through a democratic process.
| Driver Type | Violation Triggers | NJSurcharge Details |
| In-State | 6+ points on NJ license Specific offenses like DUI/DWI | See tables below for fees & durations |
| Out-of-State | Accumulating points during NJ operation | Equal rules as for NJ licensees |
| All Motorists | Particular serious violations | Financial penalties even for first-time offenses |
Unique surcharge of NJMC system levies financial penalties to out-of-state motorists identical to what residents endure. Non-residents driving within New Jersey, if charged with DUI, face the $1,000 annual surtax statewide law mandates. Courts make no distinctions based on home state.
You are responsible for paying surcharges even if you move out of New Jersey. The surcharges apply regardless of your current license, registration, or insurance status.
Point-Based Violations
| Points | Surcharge |
| First 6 | $150 |
| Over 6 | $25 per additional point |
Surcharges are assessed against drivers who accumulate 6+ points in the preceding three-year period. The accumulation of points is calculated as of the date the point violation is posted to the driver history record.
Points reductions issued for violation-free driving or completing approved courses are not considered when assessing surcharges.
Offense-Specific Penalties
| Violation | Duration | Annual Levy |
|---|---|---|
| DUI 1st or 2nd | 3 years | $1,000 |
| DUI 3rd Offense | 3 years | $1,500 |
| Driving While Suspended | 3 years | $250 |
| Driving Uninsured | 3 years | $250 |
| Unlicensed driver | 3 years | $100 |
| No insurance – MOPED | 3 years | $100 |
If convicted of both drunk driving and refusal resulting from the same arrest, you will only receive one surcharge.
Payment Options for NJ Surcharges
Drivers have flexible ways to remit fees with ease:
| Method | How It Works |
| Online | Pay via NJSVS – Pay By Web (state.nj.us) using MasterCard, VISA, Discover, or e-Check |
| Phone | Call (844) 424-6829 for automated payments 24/7 or speak with representatives 8 AM to 5 PM, Monday-Friday |
| Send bottom portion of notice with check or money order to: New Jersey Surcharge Violation System, P.O. Box 1502, Moorestown, NJ 08057-9704 | |
| In-Person | Pay at NJMVC Regional Service Centers using credit cards, cash, check, or money order |
Installment plans for unpaid fees in place. Call (844) 424-6829 to discuss customized payment timelines.
Consequences of Non-Payment
Failing to pay New Jersey surcharges can lead to adverse consequences for drivers. As per the State’s Set Off of Individual Liability (SOIL) program, the government can divert tax refunds or other money owed to you by the State to clear unpaid surcharge balances instead. This allows New Jersey to collect debts stringently.
In addition, surcharge non-payment can result in indefinite license suspension until all outstanding fees and interest charges are remitted. Drivers would need to pay a $100 restoration charge to regain their driving certification after paying off debts. Those referred to private collection agencies also face dents to their credit standing.
Moreover, additional penalties like steep late fees, legal action, and even wage garnishment may happen per New Jersey’s SOIL guidelines. Certificates of Debt could be filed in court, leading to further civil and criminal liability. Bank account levies are also options the State can exercise.
Overall, promptly paying surcharges as billed prevents considerable financial stress and legal consequences. Drivers facing hardship can call (844) 424-6829 to discuss installment plans. But ignorance or avoidance exacerbates issues. Maintaining good standing with all traffic violation fee obligations is advisable, however unique New Jersey’s additional surcharging system may be.
Managing NJSurcharges
Navigating New Jersey’s complex surcharging system requires awareness and action.
Installment Payment Plans
The State understands cash flow timing issues can cause non-payment. Hence, the option for customized installment plans exists, allowing those unable to remit lump sums upfront to spread balances over months or years.
To be enrolled in an Installment Payment Plan (IPP), you must first remit the installment amount listed on the front of your billing notice by the due date. The remaining surcharge balance will be billed in monthly installments. However, any judgments will remain outstanding until paid in full.
Call (844) 424-6829 to discuss arrangements. Advisors review personal situations case-by-case for win-win accommodations.
Change of Address Requirements
Surcharge notices are mailed to the last address on record with the Motor Vehicle Commission (MVC). You must always maintain a current mailing address with the MVC. If you move, the law requires that you notify the MVC within seven days. Changing your address with the U.S. Postal Service does not change it with the MVC.
You can update your address:
- On the web: www.njmvc.gov
- By mail: MVC Change of Address Database Corrections Unit, P.O. Box 141, Trenton, NJ 08666-0141
Judgment Information
To satisfy a judgment debt, all payments must be made in certified funds (U.S. Postal money order, attorney trust account check, or certified bank check). All uncertified payments (personal check, credit card) will delay the filing of a Warrant of Satisfaction by two months.
Dishonored Payments
All checks returned for insufficient funds or reversed credit card charges will be subject to a $25.00 dishonored payment fee.
Recent Legislative Updates
A new bill (S1522) aims to mandate installment payment options more broadly:
- Up to 4 years for surcharge assessments under $2,300
- Up to 6 years for amounts above $2,300
This provides standardized rules for payment term allowances instead of leaving to MVC discretion. The extended windows let motorists resolve financial obligations slowly without risking license revocation penalties immediately.
Bankruptcy Considerations
While personal bankruptcy filings restrict some debt obligations in New Jersey, surcharges may still remain collectible. The official documentation notes that even if you file for bankruptcy, you may still be responsible for your surcharges. Consult attorneys to understand the implications fully.
License Restoration
If your driver license was suspended or in a suspended status before January 1, 2021, you are still responsible for all outstanding surcharges and payment of the $100 driver license restoration fee before your driving privileges can be restored.
In summary, New Jersey enacted legislation decades ago implementing an additional surcharging system to attach meaningful financial consequences to dangerous driving behaviors. All licensed motorists bear accountability under this policy regime.
The State MVC makes you pay what you owe. But they let you split payments into plans. Drivers can dodge fees by paying on time. Talking to advisors can get you a plan that fits your budget. The system aims to make driving safer and bring in money, which is debated. But most officials think it does both well. The extra fees changed how drivers think and pay for necessary transportation projects.
Knowing the rules on fees, paying on time, and driving carefully makes living in New Jersey easier. Setting up payment plans stops too many fees from piling up while following the laws. Overall, the program gives reasons to drive more safely.
