Texas Driver’s License Points System: Everything you Need to Know
If you’ve ever been pulled over or received a traffic ticket in Texas, you may be wondering how it will affect your driver’s license. In Texas, the Department of Public Safety (DPS) uses a points system to track and penalize drivers who accumulate traffic violations. This points system is designed to encourage safe driving behavior and hold drivers accountable for their actions on the road.
So, does Texas do points on driver’s licenses? The short answer is yes. When you receive a traffic ticket in Texas, you may be assigned points on your driver’s license depending on the severity of the violation. These points can add up quickly and lead to consequences such as license suspension or higher insurance rates.
How the Points System Works in Texas
In Texas, the points system is designed to penalize drivers who exhibit unsafe driving behaviors. The number of points assessed for a traffic violation is based on the severity of the offense. For example, a minor traffic violation may result in one or two points, while more serious offenses can lead to six or more points.
If you accumulate a certain number of points within a specific timeframe, your driver’s license may be suspended. In Texas, a driver’s license can be suspended if you receive:
– 4 points within a 12-month period
– 8 points within a 24-month period
– 12 points within a 36-month period
It’s important to note that the points system in Texas is separate from the fines and other penalties associated with traffic violations. Even if you pay the fine for a ticket, you may still receive points on your license.
How to Check Your Driver’s License Points in Texas
If you’re unsure how many points you have on your Texas driver’s license, you can check your driving record online through the DPS website. You will need to create an account and provide some personal information, such as your driver’s license number and date of birth.
Once you access your driving record, you can see how many points you have accumulated and when they were assigned. This information can help you understand if you are at risk of having your license suspended and take steps to improve your driving record.
How to Reduce Points on Your Texas Driver’s License
If you have accumulated points on your Texas driver’s license, there are ways to reduce or remove them. One option is to take a defensive driving course approved by the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR). Completing a defensive driving course can remove up to three points from your driving record and prevent them from being added to your record for traffic violation convictions.
Another way to reduce points on your Texas driver’s license is to avoid receiving additional traffic violations. Points stay on your driving record for three years, so driving safely and obeying traffic laws can help prevent your license from being suspended.
How Points on Your Driver’s License Affect Your Insurance Rates
In addition to the risk of license suspension, accumulating points on your Texas driver’s license can also lead to higher insurance rates. Insurance companies use your driving record, including any points you have, to determine your risk as a driver. The more points you have, the higher your insurance premiums are likely to be.
If you have points on your driver’s license, you may want to shop around for insurance quotes to find the best rates. Some insurance companies offer discounts for safe drivers or may be willing to overlook minor violations on your record.
Ultimately, it’s essential to drive safely to avoid accumulating points on your Texas driver’s license. By obeying traffic laws, staying focused while driving, and being aware of your surroundings, you can maintain a clean driving record and avoid the consequences of having points on your license. Remember, safe driving benefits everyone on the road and helps to keep our communities safe.
