The A, B and C on a restaurant window come from a point score. Here is what the City says counts, what the ranges are, and what happens after a high score.
Every restaurant in New York City is scheduled for an unannounced inspection at least once a year. Inspectors assign points for violations, and the City's rule is simple: lower is better. According to the Health Department, "An inspection score of 0 to 13 is an A, 14 to 27 points is a B, and 28 or more points is a C."
Only sanitary violations are scored. The Health Department's FAQ states that other violations are not scored and do not contribute to the grade, and that sanitary violations shown in red are the most critical. Grade cards must be posted where people passing by can easily see them.
A restaurant that scores 0 to 13 on the initial inspection receives an A. A restaurant that scores 14 or more is reinspected. If it again scores 14 or more on the reinspection, the Health Department describes the result as Grade Pending: after reinspection the restaurant may post either its letter grade or a Grade Pending card until the final grade is determined at a hearing at the Office of Administrative Trials and Hearings (OATH).
The Health Department's inspection cycle chart shows that restaurants with low initial scores are inspected less often than those with high scores. Its examples: after an initial score of 0 to 13, the next cycle's initial inspection comes in 11 to 13 months; after 14 to 27 points, in 5 to 7 months; after 28 or more points, in 3 to 5 months. The chart also notes that the Department may order a restaurant to close to correct a public health hazard that cannot be corrected immediately, or when a restaurant is operating without a valid permit.
Because only sanitary violations are scored, the useful question is which sanitary items are most likely to be cited in your kitchen. A mock inspection against the same categories the City scores is the cheapest way to find out. You can also try our free Grade Risk assessment for a quick read on where your kitchen is exposed.
Every figure above comes from these official pages. Rules and fees change, so confirm against the current source before you act. Last checked October 17, 2026.
This is general information, not legal advice, and it is not affiliated with the City of New York. If you have a pending inspection, a grade problem, or a summons and want a second set of eyes, book a free discovery call.