In most states, any moving violation– running a stop sign or driving under the influence, for example, will add demerit points to a driving record.
When you accumulate too many points or are in a single incident that adds a lot of points to your driving record, you could be looking at pretty harsh consequences, including a suspended license.
In this post, we’ll go over some tips for how to remove points from your driving record to keep your driving record in as good shape as possible and give you a chance to right any wrongs that may be on your record.
How many points are applied based on the type of incident can vary from state-to-state. Common infractions that result in points on a person’s driving record include: speeding, not having car insurance, and running a red light. When a driver gets too many points on their license, they risk losing it. Here are some examples of how points vary by the situation. A driver may:
- get a warning letter at five points
- have to complete defensive driving courses at ten points
- face a six-month license suspension at 12 points
Some states, including Michigan, even assess license points if you’re driving something other than a car, like a snowmobile or ATV.
In some states, drivers can pay to have points removed. In other states, points will automatically be removed after three years. The good news is that every state allows for Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) points removal.
States that don’t use the driver’s license points system include:
- Hawaii
- Kansas
- Louisiana
- Minnesota
- Mississippi
- Oregon
- Rhode Island
- Washington
- Wyoming
Violations still go on your record even if you live in one of the states that do not use the points system and your insurance premiums are still likely to be affected.
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Consequences Of Too Many Points On Driving Records
- Have your license revoked or suspended
- Higher insurance rates
- Greater likelihood of having your license suspended after another infraction, even if it’s small
- Points for more severe infractions can stay on your record for ten years. That’s a decade of being really close to having your license suspended at all times if you get another ticket.
As you can see, the consequences can be pretty dire when you get too many points on your driving record. If you have recently received a ticket that put points on your driving record, here’s what you should do next:
Book An Appointment At The Dmv
The DMV is a great resource when it comes to learning how to get your driving record cleared, and as we mentioned, every state allows DMV points removal. The DMV can also explain the type of points that are on your record and the options to have them reduced or removed. Find out if you are eligible in your state to take advantage of any of the options for taking points off your driving record. For example, some drivers may be able to attend defensive driving classes in exchange for points dropped from their driving records.
Wait It Out
In most states, the points will drop off the driving record after a number of predetermined years. If this is an option in your state, you can just wait for the points to drop automatically.
Find An Experienced Attorney
If you’re serious about exploring all viable options to get points removed from your driving record, contact an experienced attorney. Attorneys are well-versed in the laws in the state you live in and will be able to explain the traffic infractions and points to you as well as help you find resources to get points removed from your record.