At some time in your driving career, you might have faced a traffic stop or heard people talk about driver’s license points. Some may say they want to avoid them, others might talk about how they need to reduce them. Whatever the case may be, people generally want to avoid points on their license.
Driver’s License Points: What They Mean
What do the points represent?
The amount of driver’s license points you receive depends on the charge. Different charges result in different points. The points add up, and depending on the situation, you can lose your license.
- Two Points — In order to receive two driver’s license points, your violation could be going ten miles per hour or less over the legal speed limit. Other basic violations of traffic laws could have a two point penalty.
- Three — Careless driving, improper passing, and going eleven to fifteen miles per hour over the speed limit could result in three driver’s license points. Failure to stop for a school bus or at a railroad crossing are also charges that could result in three points.
- Four — As the points increase, so do the violations. Drag racing and impaired driving will result in four points. If you are going over sixteen miles per hour over the speed limit you can get four points, too!
- Six — Arguably the most serious of the infractions, six driver’s license points is a result of reckless driving, failure to stop at an accident, and fleeing a police officer. In addition, manslaughter or negligent homicide involving the use of a vehicle will result in six points.
Where are the points valid?
The points are valid in any state that uses a point system. Insurance companies are also notified of your driver’s license points. They can raise your rates as a result of your points.
Can I remove the points?
In South Carolina, you can reduce your number of driver’s license points by attending a defensive driving course. There are certain requirements for this course. You must take it in South Carolina, in person, and there must be eight hours of classroom training. In addition, it must be taken after the violation date. Additionally, you can only make a reduction once in a three-year period. Also remember that if you are in fear of a license suspension, take the course as soon as possible. Once the suspension begins, you cannot cancel the suspension.