Points and Driving Records

Many states use a point system for tracking traffic violations and other driving infractions. Every state’s system is different; it’s important to understand how the system works in your state. Excessive points flag you as a high-risk driver for insurance companies, employers, and others who may have reason to evaluate your driving record. High point accumulations may also result in your license being suspended or revoked. With that in mind, here are a few general things you should know:

 

Insurance Companies Use Their Own Points Systems

Because DMV point systems are not consistent from state to state, insurance companies use their own point assessments to determine insurance rates. Insurers assign specific point values to each driving offense; more serious offenses are worth more points. The higher your points, the higher your insurance rates. Often, once points reach a certain level, surcharges are added for the additional risk. Time is also a factor; for example, earning four points in a 6-month period of time suspends your license for six months in California. Again, understanding how the point system works in your state is critical.

 

Not Every Violation Results in Points

In very general terms, moving violations are more likely to result in points, and major violations earn more points than minor violations. The following are examples of moving violations that typically result in one point:

 

●        Speeding under 100 miles per hour

●        Failure to use the turn indicator

●        Following too closely

●        Failure to yield

●        Failure to come to a complete stop

●        Minor accidents

 

At the other end of the spectrum, the following violations may result in multiple points:

 

●        Speeding over 100 miles per hour

●        Reckless driving citations

●        DUI or DWI

●        Hit-and-run accidents

●        At-fault accidents that cause injury or death

 

Parking tickets, fix-it tickets, expired registration citations, and other similar issues don’t usually add points to your record. Texting tickets might, though. It depends on whether or not your state’s laws consider texting while driving to be a moving violation.

 

High Point Accumulations Has Consequences

Lower points are better. High points may result in the following:

●        License suspension or revocation

●        Insurance premium increases

●        Insurance surcharges

●        Less leniency in court when contesting tickets

●        Inability to secure a transportation-related job

 

Points Don’t Last Forever

Points expire over time, anywhere from one to ten years, depending on the violation and the laws in your state. You might also be able to remove points from your record by attending a safe driving class. Some states even grant safe driving points. For example, in Utah, you can earn a safe driving point for going one year without a traffic violation, which will offset any negative points you have.

 

Check Your Driving Record

If you’re concerned about your point totals and you’re applying for or working in a transportation job, it’s important to check your driving record. Your potential employer is required by law to run an employee driving history for new and current employees. Don’t be the last to know that your point totals are too high. Request a copy of your driving history today.