Too Many Driver’s License Points?

The state of Pennsylvania has a vested interest in making sure that licensed drivers operate vehicles safely, and to advance that goal have instituted a punitive driver’s license points system. Under the system, when drivers are found to have committed moving violations points are added to their driving record. The more egregious the violation, the higher the number of points, and once drivers accumulate six or more points, they must take certain actions to assure the state that they are aware of the seriousness of the matter.

Under the state’s driver’s license points system, there are different repercussions for different circumstances, as summarized below:

• Drivers under the age of 18 who accumulate six or more points (or who are found guilty of driving 26 miles or more per hour over the posted speed limit) will have their license suspended for 90 days. If this happens again the suspension will be 120 days.
• Drivers who have accumulated six or more points once will receive notice that they have to take a written exam to demonstrate their knowledge of safe driving, of the punishment for unsafe driving, and of safety issues. The test must be taken within 30 days of the notice or the driver’s license will be suspended pending the exam being passed. Drivers who pass the exam within 30 days will have two points removed from their record.
• Drivers who have accumulated six or more points twice are required to attend a hearing at which they will be faced with three possible outcomes: a 15-day suspension, being required to take an on-road driver’s exam or no consequence. The last will not result in any points being removed, but either of the first two will result in two points being removed upon completion. Failure to attend the hearing will result in a 60-day license suspension.
• Drivers who have accumulated six or more points three or more times will have to attend a special hearing at which an examiner will review their record and decide whether to impose a 30-day license suspension. Failure to appear will result in a suspension of the driver’s license until the driver appears.

Accumulating driver’s license points not only puts you at risk for having your driver’s license suspended but also increases your auto insurance rates. For assistance with minimizing the impact of a moving violation charge, contact our experienced attorneys today.