What Are Points?

What Are Points?

Points are the MDOT MVA’s way of keeping track of your driving offenses and indicating how severe your offense is.

For example:

Speeding 1-9 mph over the limit --> 1 points
Speeding 10 mph or more over the limit --> 2 points
Following too closely for conditions --> 2 points
Failing to stop for a school bus w/ flashing red lights --> 3 points
Speeding by 20 mph or more in a posted 65 zone --> 5 points

A complete list of offenses and the points assigned to those offenses can be found at mva.maryland.gov.

The number of points assigned to an offense is determined by the state legislature and enforced by the court system.  The MVA simply keeps track of the points assigned.

How Do I Accumulate Points?

After you are convicted of a traffic offense in court or mail in the fine,  points will be added to your driving record.

If you receive several tickets at the same time, you will only:

  • receive the points for the most severe offense,
  • BUT…..all convictions will be on your record.

1) A driver does not get assigned points when given a citation, even in a DUI case.
2) He/she will have the opportunity to go to court and to prove innocence or guilt.  After the court date, then points will be assigned.
3) If a driver mails in the fine and does not go to court, it is the same as pleading guilty to the offense, and the points will be placed on a driver’s record.
4) If a driver receives several citations at the same time, he/she will only be charged with the most serious offense.

Please Note:

Unlike programs in other states, points cannot be removed from a driver’s records after completion of DIP class.  Points come off a driver’s record two years after conviction. 

Why Do Points Matter?

  1. After being convicted, points are added
  2. At 3 points, a driver will receive a warning from the MDOT/MVA.
  3. At 5 points, a driver will be required to attend DIP or risk suspension for failing to attend the class.
  4. At 8 points, a driver’s license will be suspended and he/she will have to complete a suspension period before being allowed to drive again.
  5. At 12 points, a driver’s license will be revoked.  After a license is revoked, a driver will have to attend classes, participate in treatment, and pay additional fees to get his/her license back. There is also no guarantee that a driver will get his/her license back.

Please note:  Penalties for new drivers (with learner’s permits or provisional licenses) may have far more severe penalties.  New drivers who receive suspensions or revocations may be ineligible to receive a license until they turn 21.