Understanding Demerit Points and License Suspension
Virginia uses a demerit points system to track traffic violations and unsafe driving behavior. Points accumulate on your driving record when you're convicted of traffic violations. Too many points within a specific timeframe results in automatic license suspension. Understanding this system helps you make safer driving choices and manage your driving record effectively.
Virginia's point system operates on a 12-month rolling period. This means the state looks at violations occurring within any consecutive 12-month period, not calendar years. Points stay on your record for longer periods, but only recent violations count toward suspension thresholds.
Common Virginia Traffic Violations and Points
Here are typical violations and their point values:
- Speeding 1-9 mph over limit: 3 points
- Speeding 10-19 mph over limit: 4 points
- Speeding 20+ mph over limit: 6 points (reckless driving)
- Improper passing: 4 points
- Failing to yield right of way: 3 points
- Failing to obey traffic signals: 4 points
- Improper lane changes: 3 points
- Reckless driving: 6 points
- Hit and run: 12 points
- DUI/DWI: 12 points
Each violation is assessed individual points based on severity and danger to others.
License Suspension Thresholds
Your license is suspended if you accumulate these points within 12 months:
- 12 points: automatic 60-day suspension
- 18 points: automatic 90-day suspension
- 24 points: automatic 6-month suspension
If you receive points for another violation while your license is suspended, you cannot drive until the suspension period ends, and additional penalties apply.
How to Reduce Your Points
Virginia offers several ways to reduce demerit points. Taking an approved defensive driving course can reduce up to 5 points from your record, and you can do this once every 12 months. Completing the course shows commitment to safer driving and may help with insurance companies as well. Another option is reaching a 12-month period with zero violations--points eventually age off your record, though serious violations remain much longer.
Additionally, if you can demonstrate at a hearing that the violation has already caused sufficient consequences, administrative law judges sometimes exercise discretion in reducing points. Consult with a traffic attorney for advice specific to your situation.
Long-Term Points and Your Record
Points stay on your Virginia driving record for different periods depending on the offense. Minor violations may drop off after 3 years, while serious violations like reckless driving and DUI remain for 11 years. This is why it's crucial to drive safely and avoid accumulating violations that can haunt your record for a decade or more.
