When Traffic Tickets Result in Points on Your Driver License

You have probably heard it before, “Driving is a privilege, not a right.” The DMV can take your driver’s license even though you “need” to get to work or school. The government, through the California DMV, monitors drivers by using points in the Negligent Operator Point System. You have probably heard the phrase “points on your license” a number of times, but have you ever really thought about what it means?

Points are a way to monitor drivers who consistently get traffic citations. Ultimately, getting points on your license can lead to having your California driver license taken away. Points can be put on your driver license for a number of different reasons. The points you receive on your driver license for minor offenses generally remain for three years. The criminal record and notations you acquire from misdemeanor convictions, such as DUI, stay on your license for ten years. Here is a brief synopsis of the Negligent Operator System and what you need to know.

Actions that result in points on your license:

• One Point – Radar or Lidar speeding tickets, an unsafe lane change, running a red light or a red light photo ticket, and being at fault for an accident will result in a point on your license.
• One and one half point if you are a commercial driver.
• Two Points – If you are involved in a hit-and-run, DUI, you drive on a restricted or suspended license or if you are convicted for reckless driving, you will receive two points on your California driver license.

The number of points you receive over a period of time determines if you are considered a negligent driver. You are considered negligent if you have:

• Four points in one year
• Six points in two years
• Eight points in three years

Being deemed a negligent driver will cost you your driver’s license. You are certainly in danger of losing your driver’s license if you have been arrested for driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs. This is why it is important to contact a California traffic ticket lawyer to fight any charges that will add points to your license.

If you have a red light citation, a speeding ticket or other type of traffic ticket in Orange, Los Angeles or Ventura counties, please contact Sitkoff & Hanrahan at 1-866-430-8383. The more points you have, the more your insurance will cost and the closer you will be to losing your ability to legally drive in California. Call us today to find out how we can help you with your traffic violation case.