The NJMC Direct surcharge system is a financial penalty program designed to promote safer driving practices and enforce traffic regulations in New Jersey. These surcharges are additional fees that drivers must pay on top of standard traffic fines when they commit certain violations, such as driving under the influence (DUI) or accumulating excessive points on their driving records. The surcharge system is separate from regular fines and can be charged annually over a period of three years depending on the violation.

Common Reasons for NJ Surcharges

Driving Under the Influence (DUI): If you are convicted of driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, New Jersey imposes hefty surcharge penalties. These surcharges are separate from the court fines and are billed annually for three consecutive years.

Points-Based Violations: Drivers who accumulate six or more points on their driving record within three years will be subject to a surcharge. The more points you accumulate, the higher the surcharge you’ll have to pay.

Driving Without Insurance: Operating a vehicle without proper insurance is another serious offense that triggers a surcharge in New Jersey. This surcharge is applied yearly over three years.

License Suspension: If you’re caught driving with a suspended license, you’ll be penalized with a surcharge in addition to fines and potential legal consequences.

NJ Surcharge Fee Structure

The NJ surcharge fees vary depending on the type of violation. Here’s an overview of common surcharge amounts:

  • DUI Surcharge:
    • First DUI offense: $1,000 per year for three years.
    • Second or subsequent DUI offenses: $1,500 per year for three years.
  • Points-Based Violations:
    • For six points on your license: $150.
    • Each additional point over six: $25 per point.
  • Uninsured Driver Surcharge: $250 per year for three years.
  • License Suspension Surcharge: $250 per year for three years.

These fees can accumulate quickly if multiple violations occur, adding a significant financial burden to the offender.

How to Pay NJ Surcharges

NJ surcharge payments can be made through several methods to make the process easier for drivers:

  • Online Payment: You can pay your surcharges quickly and securely through the official NJ Surcharge Violation System at njsurcharge.com. Simply log in with your driver’s license number and Social Security number to view and settle your surcharges.
  • Phone Payment: Payments can also be made via phone by calling the automated service at 844-424-6829.
  • Mail Payment: To pay by mail, send a check or money order payable to “NJ Surcharge Violation System” along with your surcharge bill to the designated mailing address listed on your bill.
  • Western Union: In-person payments can be made through Western Union locations by providing your surcharge account details.

What Happens if You Don’t Pay NJ Surcharges

Failing to pay NJ surcharges can have serious consequences, including:

  • Driver’s License Suspension: If you do not pay your surcharges on time, your driver’s license may be suspended until the full amount is paid.
  • Additional Fees: Late payments or missed deadlines can result in additional penalties, increasing the overall amount you owe.
  • Debt Collection: Unpaid surcharges may be sent to a collection agency, impacting your credit score and leading to further financial strain.
  • Legal Action: In extreme cases, failure to settle your surcharges can result in court action, where further fines and penalties may be imposed.

Appealing or Contesting NJ Surcharges

While NJ surcharges are typically mandatory, there may be limited circumstances where you can appeal or contest the surcharge:

  • Surcharge Notices: If you believe a surcharge was issued in error, you can contact the New Jersey Motor Vehicle Commission (MVC) to review your case.
  • Point Discrepancies: If you believe the number of points on your driving record is incorrect, you may be able to contest the surcharge by providing proof of any reductions or dismissals in court.
  • Documentation: Supporting documents such as proof of payment, court records, or insurance coverage may be required to successfully appeal or contest a surcharge.

Contact Information and Support

For any inquiries or issues related to NJ surcharges, you can contact customer support through the following channels:

  • Phone: Call 844-424-6829 for surcharge payment assistance or general inquiries.
  • Mail: Send inquiries or correspondence to the NJ Surcharge Violation System’s mailing address as listed on the bill.
  • Website: Visit njsurcharge.com for online support, payment options, and further assistance.

Customer support is available during business hours, and the website provides 24/7 access to your surcharge information.

FAQ on NJ Surcharge

If you accumulate six or more points within three years you are subject to a surcharge of $150. how much is the surcharge for each additional point after the six?
After accumulating six points, each additional point within three years incurs an extra surcharge of $25. So, if you have more than six points, the surcharge is $150 plus $25 for each additional point.

How long do NJ surcharges last?
Surcharges generally last for three years, with annual payments required.

Can I reduce or waive my surcharge fees?
In certain cases, you may be able to contest a surcharge, but it’s rare for fees to be reduced or waived unless errors are found.

What happens if I miss a payment deadline?
Missing a payment deadline can result in your driver’s license being suspended and additional fees being applied.

Are surcharges mandatory for all traffic violations?
No, surcharges are only applied to specific violations, such as DUI offenses, point-based violations, and driving without insurance.