50 State Guide to Removing Points From Your Driver's License

This comprehensive guide provides the policies and programs for how to remove points from your license in all 50 U.S. states.

Each state section covers eligibility for drivers license point reduction (if applicable), defensive driving or traffic school options, license suspension and reinstatement procedures related to points, and any additional programs to help improve your driving record.

Some states use point systems to track violations, while others do not use points at all.

Multiple or serious violations can still lead to suspensions, even in states without points. Keep your driving record clean and use available programs to mitigate the impact of points against your license.

Find your State Below to find out how to Remove Points from your License

• Alabama
• Alaska
• Arizona
• Arkansas
• California
• Colorado
• Connecticut
• Delaware
• Florida
• Georgia
• Hawaii
• Idaho
• Illinois
• Indiana
• Iowa
• Kansas
• Kentucky
• Louisiana
• Maine
• Maryland
• Massachusetts
• Michigan
• Minnesota
• Mississippi
• Missouri
• Montana
• Nebraska
• Nevada
• New Hampshire
• New Jersey
• New Mexico
• New York
• North Carolina
• North Dakota
• Ohio
• Oklahoma
• Oregon
• Pennsylvania
• Rhode Island
• South Carolina
• South Dakota
• Tennessee
• Texas
• Utah
• Vermont
• Virginia
• Washington
• Washington DC
• West Virginia
• Wisconsin
• Wyoming

Alabama

Point System & Eligibility

Alabama does not offer a point reduction program. Traffic conviction points remain on your record, though after 2 years, they no longer count toward suspension (they stay on the record).

Defensive Driving Courses / Traffic School

Completing a defensive driving course will not remove points in Alabama. Such courses may be taken for an insurance discount or by court order for a specific ticket. Still, they have not reduced points on your license yet.

Suspension & Reinstatement

Alabama suspends licenses for accumulating 12+ points in 2 years (e.g., 12–14 points = 60-day suspension; 15–17 = 90 days). Points “age out” for suspension after 2 years from the violation date (though the conviction stays on record). If suspended, you must serve the suspension and pay a reinstatement fee (around $100) to get your license back.

Record Improvement

Time and safe driving are the only ways to improve your Alabama record. Two years after each offense, its points no longer count toward new suspensions. Drive violation-free, and any old points will become moot for suspension purposes after 24 months.

Alaska

Point System & Eligibility

Alaska drivers can remove 2 points from their record by completing an approved defensive driving course once every 12 months.

Defensive Driving Courses / Traffic School

Completing an Alaska DMV-approved defensive driving course gives you a 2-point reduction on your license. You must not have taken a point-reduction course in the last 12 months. The course provider will notify the DMV, and two points will be deducted.

Suspension & Reinstatement

Alaska suspends licenses for excessive points (12 points in 12 months or 18 points in 24 months). Points drop off your record after 2 years. If you’re nearing suspension, taking a defensive driving course can drop your total by 2 to help avoid it. After a suspension, you must pay reinstatement fees and possibly take a course if mandated by the DMV before your license is reinstated.

Record Improvement

If needed, use the 2-point reduction course proactively each year. Drive for 2 years violation-free so that older points expire and are removed from your total. These steps will help keep your point total low and improve your Alaska driving record.

Arizona

Point System & Eligibility

Arizona has no formal point reduction program once points are on your record. However, if eligible, you can avoid points for a new traffic ticket by completing a defensive driving diversion course (ticket dismissal).

Defensive Driving Courses / Traffic School

If you receive a civil moving violation, you can often attend an Arizona Supreme Court-approved Defensive Driving School before your court date to have the traffic ticket dismissed and no points added for that violation. This option is usually available for one ticket every 12–24 months (and not for criminal or serious violations). Arizona does not allow you to remove or reduce points already on your record via a course.

Suspension & Reinstatement

Arizona suspends driving privileges for accumulating 8 points in 12 months (which usually results in a 3-month suspension or a mandated Traffic Survival School instead of suspension). Certain violations (e.g., DUI, extreme speeding) have their own direct penalties. Points remain on your record, but Arizona considers only the last 12 months for suspension decisions. Completion of Traffic Survival School (TSS) may be required if you commit certain offenses or accumulate too many points. At the same time, TSS doesn’t erase points and is often used to avoid a suspension.

Record Improvement

Prevent points from being added using the Defensive Driving diversion for eligible tickets. For existing points, only time (they effectively “stop counting” after 12 months) will reduce their impact. Also, if you’re ordered to Traffic Survival School due to accumulated points or a serious offense, complete it – it can satisfy the requirement to keep your license. Driving safely so points don’t accumulate is how to maintain a good record in Arizona.

Arkansas

Point System & Eligibility

Arkansas assigns points for violations but does not have a program to reduce points via courses voluntarily. Points remain on your record for three years from the offense date.

Defensive Driving Courses / Traffic School

There is no Arkansas DMV-approved defensive driving course that will remove points from your record. Courts might allow a defensive driving course to dismiss a ticket or waive a fine in some cases, but it doesn’t reduce points already on your license.

Suspension & Reinstatement

Arkansas will suspend your license for 14 points or more in 36 months (14 points ~ 3-month suspension; more points = longer suspension). Points for each conviction automatically expire 3 years after the offense. If suspended, you must attend a hearing (or you would have already had one at 14 points) and pay a reinstatement fee (~$100) to reinstate your license.

Record Improvement

Time is the only remedy. Avoid new violations; after 36 months, the points from prior tickets will drop off your record. Also, since Arkansas holds administrative hearings at 14 points, you may have an opportunity to be placed on probation instead of suspension – at such a hearing, showing improved driving behavior (and possibly completion of a course voluntarily) might convince the hearing officer to allow you to keep your license. But formally, no point reduction courses exist. Focus on safe driving so earlier points age out without reaching suspension level.

California

Point System & Eligibility

California does not have a point reduction program or course. Points from violations stay on your record for 36 months (3 years) for most offenses (longer for serious offenses).

Defensive Driving Courses / Traffic School

While you can’t remove existing points, you can attend Traffic Violator School for an eligible ticket to have the conviction masked from your public record (preventing insurance company from seeing it and keeping it off your countable record). Traffic school can be used once every 18 months for a qualifying infraction. This doesn’t “erase” the point (the DMV still sees it for 3 years). Still, it keeps your record clean for insurance and effectively avoids the point for suspension purposes.

Suspension & Reinstatement

California considers you a negligent operator if you accumulate 4 points in 12 months, 6 in 24 months, or 8 in 36 months, which can lead to a license suspension. Points automatically drop off 36 months after the violation (or 10 years for DUI and some serious violations). There’s no program to remove points sooner. If you reach a suspension level, you may request a DMV hearing. You often can get a probationary license with mandatory Traffic School completion.

Record Improvement

Avoid new points by using traffic school for eligible tickets (so they don’t add to your record). Only the passage of 3 years of clean driving for existing points will remove them from your record (so your point count resets). Also, maintain a good record beyond that – California does not have a forgiveness program beyond automatic expiration. Essentially, keeping your clean driving record for a continuous period is the only way to improve it in California.

Colorado

Point System & Eligibility

Colorado does not offer a course to reduce points. Once points from a violation are on your record, you must wait 24 months for them to stop counting toward a suspension.

Defensive Driving Courses / Traffic School

No Colorado defensive driving or traffic school program will remove points from your driver license. Completing a course voluntarily might help if you have a DMV hearing (it shows effort to improve), but it won’t subtract points from your official total.

Suspension & Reinstatement

Colorado suspends adult drivers for 12 points in 12 months or 18 points in 24 months. Points for each conviction remain on your record indefinitely, but they cease to count for suspension after 24 months. If you accumulate too many points, you get a DMV hearing and likely a license suspension (typically 6 months). After serving a suspension, you pay a reinstatement fee and might be placed on probation. Points older than 24 months no longer count.

Record Improvement

Time is the only way to reduce your countable points. After 24 months, any points from violations older than 2 years are not considered for a new suspension (though they still show on your full record). With no point reduction course, the strategy is to drive safely until existing points age off after 2 years. Suppose you’re facing a hearing for points. In that case, you can request a probationary license and show evidence of improvement (like having taken a voluntary driver course or completed community service). This could shorten a suspension or avoid it, but officially doesn’t reduce points.

Connecticut

Point System & Eligibility

Connecticut does not allow points to be reduced by taking a course. Points for moving violations remain on your record for 24 months and then drop off automatically.

Defensive Driving Courses / Traffic School

There is no point-removal course in Connecticut. However, suppose you accumulate points (7 points in 3 years). In that case, you must attend an Operator Retraining Program. This is mandatory driver education for repeat offenders but does not remove points.

Suspension & Reinstatement

Connecticut issues a 30-day suspension at 10 points. Each moving violation has an assigned point value (1 to 5 points). Points expire 24 months after the violation date. If suspended (30 days for the first 10-point suspension), you must serve the suspension and pay a restoration fee ($175) to reinstate. After suspension, your point total resets to 0.

Record Improvement

The only way to reduce points in CT is to go 24 months without new violations, after which any points on your record from prior offenses will be removed automatically. Additionally, Connecticut law says if you go 1 year without any new points, a previously assessed violation’s points will no longer count toward future suspension (though practically, it uses the 2-year cycle for complete drop-off).

Delaware

Point System & Eligibility

Delaware drivers can take a defensive driving course to get 3 points off their driving record. Once completed, the points are applied to the driver’s total and are valid for 3 years.

Defensive Driving Courses / Traffic School

Taking an approved defensive driving course in Delaware provides a 3-point credit on your license. The credit will not remove current points, but it is subtracted from your total calculated points for DMV actions. The credit is valid for 3 years, and if you take a refresher course (3 hours) before it expires, you can renew the 3-point credit for an additional 3 years.

Suspension & Reinstatement

Delaware suspends licenses at 14 points (4-month suspension) and beyond (16 points = 6 months, 18 = 8 months). However, Delaware halves point values after 12 months and drops them after 24 months of the violation date. The 3-point defensive driving credit is only applied to future violations. If you get a 3-point credit and a 5-point ticket, the DMV will treat it as 2 points for suspension calculation. If suspended, you must complete or have completed a behavior modification course and pay a reinstatement fee to reinstate.

Record Improvement

Keep your 3-point defensive driving credit active by taking the Basic and Refresher courses every 3 years. This gives you a buffer that can prevent a suspension. Also, note that after 12 months, your point total is cut in half, and after 24 months, old points drop off. Driving safely for 1–2 years will naturally reduce existing points.

District of Columbia

Point System & Eligibility

DC drivers who get a moving violation may be eligible to take a DMV-approved defensive driving course to get points off their record. However, before taking the course, they must obtain approval from a DC DMV Hearing Examiner.

Defensive Driving Courses / Traffic School

Once approved, completing the course can remove points assessed for a recent violation. Online defensive driving courses are allowed, but only if specifically approved.

Suspension & Reinstatement

The DC DMV can suspend a license at 10 points. If you accumulate 12 points, that’s a mandatory revocation. If suspended or revoked, you must serve the suspension/revocation period, pay a reinstatement fee, and possibly complete a course before getting your license back.

Record Improvement

Using a defensive driving course with examiner approval is the primary way to remove newly assessed points. Over time, older points typically drop off after 2 years. Always verify with the Hearing Examiner if a course is allowable before you enroll.

Florida

Point System & Eligibility

Florida does not allow point removal via courses after they are on your record. Points for a conviction stay on your record for at least 5 years. However, you can avoid points for a new ticket by electing a Basic Driver Improvement (BDI) course before adjudication.

Defensive Driving Courses / Traffic School

If you receive a moving violation, you may take a BDI 4-hour traffic school (with the court’s approval) before paying the ticket, which results in no points being added for that citation. This option can be used once every 12 months (maximum 5 times lifetime). Florida does not offer a course to subtract points that are already on your record.

Suspension & Reinstatement

Florida suspends licenses for point accumulation:

1. 12 points in 12 months results in a 30-day suspension.
2. 18 points in 18 months results in a 3-month suspension.
3. 24 points in 36 months results in a 1-year suspension.

Each moving violation has a set point value (usually 3 to 6). Points stay on your record for at least 5 years from conviction. If your license is suspended for points, you must complete an Advanced Driver Improvement (ADI) course and pay a reinstatement fee ($45) before reinstatement.

Record Improvement

Prevent new points by using traffic school for eligible tickets. Only time (5 years) for existing points will reduce their impact. Florida law does not automatically reduce point totals annually, so focus on not accumulating further points until old ones expire.

Georgia

Point System & Eligibility

Georgia allows a 7-point reduction once every 5 years. To get this, you must complete a certified 6-hour Driver Improvement (defensive driving) course and then apply to DDS for the point reduction.

Defensive Driving Courses / Traffic School

After finishing a Georgia DDS-approved Driver Improvement course, you can request that up to 7 points be removed from your driving record (but not below 0). You can do this one time in a 5-year period. This course is often taken to reinstate a suspended license or for an insurance premium discount.

Suspension & Reinstatement

Georgia suspends licenses for accumulating 15 points in 24 months (for drivers age 21+). Each moving violation carries 2 to 6 points. Points remain on your record for 2 years from the date of conviction. If your license is suspended for points, you must complete a Driver Improvement course (required for reinstatement), pay a reinstatement fee ($200), and then your point total resets to zero.

Record Improvement

Take advantage of Georgia’s point reduction course. If you have points on your record and haven’t used a reduction in the last 5 years, complete the 6-hour Driver Improvement course to remove up to 7 points. Additionally, note that points expire after 2 years, so drive violation-free for two years, and any prior points will drop off.

Hawaii

Point System & Eligibility

Hawaii has eliminated the point system for tracking traffic violations. While drivers in Hawaii are not assigned points for infractions, traffic violation convictions are still recorded on a driver’s traffic abstract and can result in fines or loss of driving privileges.

Defensive Driving Courses / Traffic School

There is no Hawaii DMV program for point reduction (no points exist). However, traffic courts may occasionally allow a driver to take a driving course in exchange for a reduced fine or dismissal on a case-by-case basis.

Suspension & Reinstatement

Hawaii tracks violations by count/severity. For example, three moving violations within a year might result in a 90-day suspension by the court. You must serve the suspension period and pay a reinstatement fee ($50) if suspended.

Record Improvement

In Hawaii, a clean traffic abstract is key. Avoid new violations so that after a specific time (traffic abstracts typically show the last 10 years, but insurers often consider the previous 3–5), any prior violations become “old” and less impactful. There’s no point total to manage; instead, focus on not adding entries to your driving record.

Idaho

Point System & Eligibility

Every three years, Idaho drivers can lower their drivers license point total by 3 points if they take a defensive driving course approved by the Idaho Transportation Department. The ITD approved driving course must be taken and completed before the license suspension takes place. This will avoid an impending driver’s license suspension for accumulating too many points.

Defensive Driving Courses / Traffic School

By completing an ITD-approved defensive driving course, Idaho will subtract 3 points from your point total. You can use this point reduction at most once in three years.

Suspension & Reinstatement

Idaho suspends at 12 points in 12 months (30 days), 18 points in 24 months (90 days), or 24 points in 36 months (6 months). Points drop off after 3 years from the date of the violation. If your license is suspended for points, you must serve the suspension and pay reinstatement fees. Still, completion of a defensive driving course is often required before reinstating.

Record Improvement

Take a defensive driving course if you have points and haven’t taken one in the last 3 years – this will cut 3 points from your record. Also, remember that points automatically expire after 3 years of incident-free driving. Plan to let points age off: if you got some points 2 years ago, avoid new violations for one more year, and those points will vanish.

Illinois

Point System & Eligibility

Illinois does not presently have a drivers license point reduction program. License points from traffic violations will stay on your driving record for 4–5 years.

Defensive Driving Courses / Traffic School

While you cannot remove points already on your Illinois record, you can avoid convictions (and thus points) via court supervision. Many Illinois courts will grant supervision (often requiring a Traffic Safety School) for a minor ticket, resulting in no conviction or points.

Suspension & Reinstatement

Illinois suspends an adult’s license for three moving violation convictions within 12 months (length depends on total points and offense severity). Points remain until they naturally drop off after 4–5 years. If suspended, you must serve the suspension, pay a reinstatement fee ($70), and possibly take a remedial course if ordered.

Record Improvement

Avoid convictions by obtaining court supervision whenever possible. If you already have convictions/points, only time will improve your record – traffic violations are typically removed at the discretion of the Secretary of State after 4–5 years. Drive safely for several years so that older convictions expire from your record.

Indiana

Point System & Eligibility

Indiana drivers can take the Driver Safety Program to get 4 points off their driving record. This can be used once every 3 years.

Defensive Driving Courses / Traffic School

By voluntarily taking a Driver Safety Program (defensive driving course), you can receive a 4-point reduction on your Indiana driving record. You’re eligible for this course credit once every 3 years.

Suspension & Reinstatement

Indiana suspends licenses if you accumulate too many points (for example, 20+ points can trigger a hearing and potential suspension). Points stay active on your record for 2 years. After a suspension, you’ll need to serve the suspension term and pay reinstatement fees; completing a DSP is often required to reinstate.

Record Improvement

Complete a Driver Safety Program if you have points and haven’t taken one in the last 3 years – it will subtract 4 points from your total. Also, note that points expire 2 years after the conviction date. So if you avoid new violations every 2 years, your point total will decrease as older points drop off.

Iowa

Point System & Eligibility

Iowa does not have a point reduction program. Points stay on a driver’s record for 12 months. Instead of using a point system for moving violations, Iowa tracks the number of convictions.

Defensive Driving Courses / Traffic School

There’s no official Iowa program to remove points via a course. Some Iowa courts might allow a driving course in exchange for dismissing a minor ticket, but this is discretionary, not statewide.

Suspension & Reinstatement

Iowa suspends licenses for repeated moving violations (e.g., three within 12 months). Serious offenses carry their own suspensions. You can regain your license after serving the suspension and paying a $20 reinstatement fee.

Record Improvement

Avoid multiple violations so you don’t meet the suspension threshold. Time without new violations helps prior convictions become less relevant, and many minor violations eventually drop off your record after a few years.

Kansas

Point System & Eligibility

Kansas does not have a point system for traffic violations. However, the DMV keeps a record of past convictions on a driver’s history. Accumulating serious or multiple violations can result in license suspension or revocation.

Defensive Driving Courses / Traffic School

No program to remove points exists because there is no point system. However, a defensive driving course could help you get an insurance premium discount or, in some cases, dismiss a ticket if the court allows it.

Suspension & Reinstatement

Kansas may suspend a license for repeated serious violations. If your license is suspended, you must serve the suspension and pay reinstatement fees to get your license back.

Record Improvement

Without a point system, improvement is about not accumulating convictions. Older violations drop off over time (often 3 years for insurance, 5 for the driving record).

Kentucky

Point System & Eligibility

Kentucky does not have a point reduction program. Points from common traffic violations stay on a driver’s record for 2 years from the date of conviction. Still, the conviction itself stays on record for 5 years.

Defensive Driving Courses / Traffic School

Kentucky drivers who get a violation but have not been convicted may be eligible to take traffic school to prevent points from being added to their records. Eligibility requires a referral from the district court handling the violation and is limited to once every 12 months.

Suspension & Reinstatement

Kentucky suspends at 12 points in 2 years (6-month suspension). Points expire after 2 years, though the conviction remains on record for 5 years. After suspension or a hearing, you pay fees to reinstate.

Record Improvement

Drive 2 years without new violations, so those points drop off. Use traffic school for new tickets to prevent new points from appearing in the first place.

Louisiana

Point System & Eligibility

Louisiana has no point system, but your past convictions are on your record. Repeated or serious offenses can lead to license suspension or revocation.

Defensive Driving Courses / Traffic School

With no points, a driving course won’t change your record except potentially through court arrangements. Some Louisiana courts or the LSU Driver Improvement Program may allow a driver to take a remedial course for a ticket to be dismissed or not reported.

Suspension & Reinstatement

Louisiana suspensions are based on multiple serious violations or repeated offenses. If your license is suspended for repeated traffic violations, you must serve the suspension and pay reinstatement fees. Without points, improvement is about reducing convictions.

Record Improvement

Keep your driving record clear of convictions. Louisiana’s driver records usually reflect the last 5 years for minor violations. There’s no point system to worry about, so focus on not accumulating reported violations.

Maine

Point System & Eligibility

Maine drivers who complete a Driving Dynamics course get 3 points off their record. You can only take this course once every 365 days.

Defensive Driving Courses / Traffic School

Completing the Maine Driving Dynamics course will add a 3-point credit to your record. This credit is used to offset existing demerit points (cannot exceed the total in effect).

Suspension & Reinstatement

Maine suspends at 12 points. Points expire after 1 year from the conviction date. If you accumulate 12 points, you receive a suspension (usually 15 days the first time). After suspension, you pay a $50 fee to reinstate.

Record Improvement

Take the Driving Dynamics course to deduct 3 points immediately. Also, drive for 1 year without violations so that any points older than 12 months fall off your record. Combining these methods, you can stay well below 12.

Maryland

Point System & Eligibility

Maryland MVA will automatically expunge your record—remove points and violations—3 years after a conviction as long as you don’t have any other moving violations within that time frame.

Defensive Driving Courses / Traffic School

There’s no Maryland MVA defensive driving course to remove points. If you accrue points, the MVA imposes corrective actions at 5 or 8 points. – e.g., at 5 points, you must attend a Driver Improvement Program (DIP), but this doesn’t remove existing points.

Suspension & Reinstatement

Maryland issues a warning at 3 points, requires a DIP course at 5 points, suspends at 8 points (60 days), and revokes at 12 points. Points drop off after 2 years from the date of the offense. If you go three consecutive years with no violations, you may be eligible for automatic expungement of your record.

Record Improvement

Safe driving for three years is the key. Maryland will automatically clear your driving record (points and violations) if you have no new incidents in three years and meet specific criteria. Maryland doesn’t let you reduce points via a course on your own, but compliance with the required DIP can prevent escalation.

Massachusetts

Point System & Eligibility

Massachusetts doesn’t have a point reduction program. Traffic violation points affect your auto insurance for 6 years from the date they were assessed.

Defensive Driving Courses / Traffic School

Completing a driver retraining course in MA is only required if you have three surchargeable events in 2 years (it doesn’t remove points). There’s no voluntary course to lower your insurance points or avoid a suspension for habitual traffic offenses.

Suspension & Reinstatement

Massachusetts suspends licenses for three surchargeable events in 2 years (until a required driver retraining course is completed) and five events in 3 years (30-day suspension). Also, a serious offense, like three speeding violations in 1 year, automatically triggers a 30-day suspension.

Record Improvement

Time and safe driving are the only remedies. If you avoid new violations for 6 years, previous surcharge points won’t affect your insurance rates anymore. Massachusetts does not have a points-forgiveness program beyond that.

Michigan

Point System & Eligibility

Michigan does not presently have a drivers license point reduction program. License Points from traffic violations will stay on driving records for 2 years after the date of the conviction.

Defensive Driving Courses / Traffic School

Michigan’s Basic Driver Improvement Course (BDIC) can be used for an eligible new ticket to keep points from going on your public record. Still, it does not remove points once they are already there.

Suspension & Reinstatement

Michigan may require a driver reexamination if you accumulate 12 or more points, which can lead to suspension. Points drop off after 2 years from each conviction date. After suspension, pay a $125 reinstatement fee and comply with any probation or driver course if ordered.

Record Improvement

Use the BDIC program when offered to avoid new points. For existing points, only time (2 years) will be removed. There’s no official point of forgiveness beyond that.

Minnesota

Point System & Eligibility

Minnesota doesn’t have a point system, but DVS keeps a record of all of your past convictions. Repeated or serious offenses can lead to license suspension or revocation.

Defensive Driving Courses / Traffic School

There is no Minnesota state program to erase traffic violations via course. However, drivers 55+ can get an insurance discount by taking a defensive driving class.

Suspension & Reinstatement

Minnesota will suspend a license for habitual violations despite the lack of a point system. You must serve the suspension term and pay reinstatement fees ($30) if suspended.

Record Improvement

With no points to reduce, improvement means avoiding new violations. Over time, older violations become less relevant (3–5 years for insurance). Courts sometimes allow a safe driving course for ticket dismissal or fine reduction.

Mississippi

Point System & Eligibility

Mississippi doesn’t have a formal point system. Still, DPS keeps records of past convictions, and serious or repeated infractions can result in license suspension or revocation.

Defensive Driving Courses / Traffic School

No official statewide program exists to remove convictions. Some courts might offer a course for dismissal if you’re a young or first-time offender, but that’s not guaranteed.

Suspension & Reinstatement

Mississippi suspends licenses for specific numbers of violations or specifically serious offenses. You must serve the suspension and pay a reinstatement fee (~$100) to reinstate.

Record Improvement

Drive with no additional offenses, so older convictions become less significant. Mississippi doesn’t have points; the only “improvement” is letting time pass without new violations.

Missouri

Point System & Eligibility

Missouri doesn’t have a point reduction program. Missouri DPS reduces points on your record. Every year, there are no new violations. After 1 year, points are reduced by 1/3; after 2 years, the remaining points are reduced by 1/2; after 3 years, all points are removed.

Defensive Driving Courses / Traffic School

Missouri does not have a course that directly subtracts points. However, some courts will allow a driver to take a Driver Improvement Program to avoid a conviction on a specific ticket (resulting in no points for that ticket).

Suspension & Reinstatement

Missouri suspends a license for 8 points in 18 months (30-day suspension for first suspension). Points remain on your record for 3 years from conviction, but the effective total decreases with each year of safe driving. If suspended, you must complete a Driver Improvement Program if required and pay a reinstatement fee ($20).

Record Improvement

Drive safely for extended periods to take advantage of Missouri’s automatic point reduction: after 1 year with no new points, your remaining points drop by 1/3; after 2 years, by 1/2; after 3 years, they go to 0. Also, use court options to avoid points for new tickets.

Montana

Point System & Eligibility

Montana does not presently have a drivers license point reduction program. Drivers license Points from traffic violations will saty on a driving record for three years after the date of the traffic conviction.

Defensive Driving Courses / Traffic School

No official program in Montana subtracts points. Courts rarely dismiss tickets in exchange for a course. However, a judge might offer a defensive driving school to reduce the fine for some minor violations.

Suspension & Reinstatement

Montana’s point system primarily identifies habitual traffic offenders (30 points in 3 years). Points drop off your record after 3 years. If you reach HTO status, you face a 3-year revocation. After revocation, reinstatement requires a hearing.

Record Improvement

Time is the only healer. Points in Montana expire after 36 months. Avoid new violations to prevent reaching high totals.

Nebraska

Point System & Eligibility

Nebraska doesn’t offer a point reduction program. Drivers License Points from traffic violations will stay on a drivers record for five years.

Defensive Driving Courses / Traffic School

There’s no Nebraska DMV course to remove points. However, a driver improvement course is required after a suspension for points before reinstatement.

Suspension & Reinstatement

Nebraska suspends at 12 points in 2 years (6-month suspension). Points drop off 5 years after the offense, but only points in the most recent 2 years count toward the 12-point threshold. After serving a suspension, you must complete an 8-hour driver improvement course and pay a fee to reinstate.

Record Improvement

Drive violation-free for 2 years because Nebraska only counts the last 2 years for suspensions. Points fully drop off after 5 years. There’s no direct course to reduce points sooner.

Nevada

Point System & Eligibility

Nevada drivers with 3-11 points on their record can take a Traffic School course for 3 points. However, drivers with pending traffic violations cannot take the course for point reduction.

Defensive Driving Courses / Traffic School

Completing a Nevada DMV-approved 5-hour traffic safety course will remove three demerit points from your record. You’re eligible once every 12 months if you have at least 3 points.

Suspension & Reinstatement

Nevada suspends a license for 12 points in 12 months (6-month suspension). Points drop off after 12 months from the violation date (or 24 months entirely). If you reach 12 driver’s license points, your license is suspended, and you pay a $75 fee to reinstate.

Record Improvement

If you’re nearing 12 points, use the 3-point reduction course strategically. Also, let points age off after 1–2 years. Combining these allows you to manage your Nevada record and stay below suspension thresholds effectively.

New Hampshire

Point System & Eligibility

New Hampshire drivers with 3+ points can take a Driver Improvement course to remove 3 points. The course must be taken in person in the state (online courses are not accepted). If you don’t take a Driver Improvement course, points will stay on your record for 3 years.

Defensive Driving Courses / Traffic School

NH drivers who accumulate points may be ordered or allowed by a hearing officer to attend a Driver Improvement Program (defensive driving class). Upon successful completion, 3 points are removed from your record. Generally, this opportunity is offered when a driver has 6+ points and attends a hearing.

Suspension & Reinstatement

New Hampshire suspends licenses based on point thresholds: for adults, 12 points in 3 years = up to 3-month suspension. If you accumulate 12 points, you’ll have a hearing – you might be given a chance to attend the Driver Improvement Program to reduce points and avoid or lessen suspension. Points expire after 3 years.

Record Improvement

Drive safely for 3 years so older points expire. If you have a high point total and a hearing is scheduled, request the chance to attend a Driver Improvement course to remove 3 points. This can save your license.

New Jersey

Point System & Eligibility

New Jersey driver’s license holders can lower their driver’s license point total by 2 points once every five years if they take and complete a state approved Defensive Driving course.

Defensive Driving Courses / Traffic School

Completing a NJ MVC-approved defensive driving course (online or in-person, ~6 hours) will remove 2 points from your license. You may do this once every 5 years for a point reduction (you’ll also get an insurance discount).

Suspension & Reinstatement

NJ suspends at 12 or more points. How many points and prior suspensions determine the length of suspension? You must pay a $100 restoration fee after suspension. Once reinstated, your points might be reduced automatically.

Record Improvement

If you have points and haven’t done so in 5+ years, take a defensive driving course (2 points off). Also, New Jersey deducts 3 points for every 12 consecutive months you drive without any moving violation conviction or license suspension. Combining these two methods can significantly reduce your point total.

New Mexico

Point System & Eligibility

New Mexico does not have a drivers license point reduction program. Suppose your driver’s license is suspended due to excessive point accumulation. In that case, you may be required to take a Driver Improvement course to reinstate your license.

Defensive Driving Courses / Traffic School

There’s no program to reduce points once on your record. However, a New Mexico court might allow a traffic safety course in exchange for dismissing a minor ticket, thus avoiding new points.

Suspension & Reinstatement

New Mexico suspends at 7 points in 12 months (3-month suspension) or 12 points in 12 months (1-year revocation). Points older than 1 year drop off automatically. After suspension, you must complete an 8-hour driver improvement course and pay a reinstatement fee (~$25).

Record Improvement

Avoid acquiring points – if you get a ticket, ask the court about a possible driving school diversion to keep it off your record. Since points only last 1 year for counting, drive for 12 months without new violations, and your point total returns to 0.

New York

Point System & Eligibility

New York drivers can reduce their total license points by 4 points every 18 months by completing a state approved Defensive Driving course. However:

1. The reduction only applies to points from violations in the last 18 months before course completion.
2. Points cannot be used as credit for future violations.
3. Total points cannot be reduced to 0.
4. The point reduction will not reverse this action if your license is already suspended or revoked.
5. Taking the course does not cancel or prevent a mandatory suspension or revocation for severe violations like DWI, DWAI, or three speeding tickets in 18 months.

Defensive Driving Courses / Traffic School

By taking a PIRP (Point & Insurance Reduction Program) course (6 hours, online or in the classroom), New York will subtract up to 4 points from your active point total. You also receive a 10% insurance discount for 3 years.

Suspension & Reinstatement

New York suspends a license for 11 points in 18 months. A PIRP course can bring a driver below 11 points, preventing a suspension. After a suspension (usually 31 days for first-time 11+ points), you pay a $50 fee to reinstate.

Record Improvement

Take a PIRP defensive driving course if you have points on your record (especially if nearing 11). Points older than 18 months don’t count toward the 11-point limit anyway, so combine safe driving for 18+ months with a PIRP course to manage your total effectively.

North Carolina

Point System & Eligibility

A judge or driver’s license hearing officer may order North Carolina drivers with 7 points on their record to take a Driver Improvement Clinic. Upon completion, 3 points will be deducted. Eligibility requires a conference with a driver’s license hearing officer.

Defensive Driving Courses / Traffic School

There is no public NC program for taking a course to remove points on your own. However, suppose you accumulate points and attend a DMV hearing (typically at 7 points). In that case, the DMV may offer you the chance to complete a Driver Improvement Clinic to deduct 3 points. Some NC courts also allow drivers to take a 4-hour course in exchange for a ticket reduction/dismissal.

Suspension & Reinstatement

NC suspends a license for 12 points in 3 years (60-day suspension first time). Points drop off 3 years after the offense date. After suspension, you must serve the suspension and pay a $50 fee to reinstate; point total resets to zero.

Record Improvement

Drive for 3 years without new violations, so older points expire and are removed. If you’re nearing or above 7 points and get called for a hearing, take advantage if they allow you to attend the Driver Improvement Clinic for a 3-point reduction – it can drop you below the suspension level. Also, use Prayer for Judgment Continued (PJC) in court to keep points off for minor tickets.

North Dakota

Point System & Eligibility

North Dakota drivers can have 3 points removed from their record by taking a state approved Traffic School course every 12 months. This removes existing points and cannot be used as credit for future violations.

Defensive Driving Courses / Traffic School

Completing an approved 4-hour defensive driving course will reduce your point total by 3. You can do this once per year. You must do it before hitting 12 points (the suspension threshold).

Suspension & Reinstatement

ND suspends a license for 12+ points, with a suspension of 7 days per point over 11. Points drop off your record entirely if you go 12 months with no new convictions. If suspended, you pay $50 to reinstate; your point total typically resets to 11.

Record Improvement

Take the defensive driving course if you have points and haven’t taken it in the last 12 months – this removes 3 points. Also, going 12 months without new violations wipes all points to 0. Together, these can keep your record clear.

Ohio

Point System & Eligibility

You can earn 2-12 points on your Ohio license by taking a Remedial Driving Course for 2 points. This course doesn’t remove existing points but credits you for future violations.

Defensive Driving Courses / Traffic School

Completing an 8-hour approved remedial driving course in Ohio will remove 2 points from your official total. You can do this once every 3 years, up to 5 times a lifetime.

Suspension & Reinstatement

Ohio suspends a license for 12 points in 2 years (6-month suspension). After serving a suspension, you must complete a remedial course (if not already done), file SR-22 insurance, and pay a reinstatement fee ($40) to regain your license. Points expire 2 years after conviction.

Record Improvement

If you have points, use the 2-point credit course strategically. Also, drive for 2 years without further violations to let older points drop off. Combining these is key to staying below 12.

Oklahoma

Point System & Eligibility

Oklahoma drivers may receive a 2-point credit to their driving record after completing an state approved Defensive Driving course. The defensive driving course may only be taken once every two years.

The drivers license points will automatically be lowered by two points if a driver goes one year without any traffic convictions that carry points. If an Oklahoma driver goes three consecutive years with no traffic violation convictions, the license points on their driving record will be removed with an end result of zero points.

Defensive Driving Courses / Traffic School

Completing an Oklahoma-approved defensive driving or driver compliance course yields a 2-point credit on your license. This credit is limited to once every two years.

Suspension & Reinstatement

Oklahoma suspends a license if you accumulate 10 points. Points remain on record for 5 years from conviction. Still, the effective total can be reduced by driving without further convictions (2 points off each clean year). After suspension, pay a $50 fee to reinstate; your point total resets to 0.

Record Improvement

Combine the 2-point defensive driving course every 2 years with automatic 2-point annual reductions. Three years with no violations = 0 points. These measures let you manage your record effectively.

Oregon

Point System & Eligibility

Oregon doesn’t use a point system for tickets. However, the DMV keeps a record of past convictions on your driving history. Accumulate serious or repeated tickets, and your license may be suspended or revoked.

Defensive Driving Courses / Traffic School

There are no points to remove. A local court might use a traffic safety course to dismiss a ticket, but not statewide.

Suspension & Reinstatement

Oregon suspends drivers for four moving violations in 24 months (30-day suspension). After suspension, you pay a $75 fee and typically get a 1-year probation (any new abuses during that period can lead to another suspension).

Record Improvement

Without points, improvement is purely about avoiding repeated offenses. Going 24 months violation-free will prevent another suspension if you have multiple recent violations. Over time, minor violations drop off your record (3–5 years for insurance).

Pennsylvania

Point System & Eligibility

Pennsylvania doesn’t allow points to be removed from your record by taking a Driver Improvement course. However, 3 points will fall off if your license is ticket-free for 12 months. If your record is zero points and stays that way for 12 months, any future points will be considered a first offense.

Defensive Driving Courses / Traffic School

There is no elective point removal course in PA. Only if mandated by PennDOT after multiple offenses might you be assigned to a Driver Improvement School, which can remove 2 points. But this is not voluntary.

Suspension & Reinstatement

Pennsylvania suspends at 11 points (5 days per point over 10). Points drop off automatically as you drive without violations: 3 points are removed every 12 months of violation-free driving. After a suspension, you pay a $94 restoration fee, and your point total is often reduced.

Record Improvement

Drive safely for 1 year to remove 3 points automatically. Continuing safe driving eventually gets you to 0 points. If PennDOT orders a special course or exam, completion can remove 2 points. That’s the only formal route to subtract points aside from time.

Rhode Island

Point System & Eligibility

The Rhode Island DMV doesn’t use a point system for tickets. However, records of past convictions are kept as part of your driving history. Repeated or severe tickets may result in license suspension or revocation.

Defensive Driving Courses / Traffic School

There is no official “point reduction,” as points don’t exist. Courts may allow a driver to attend a course to reduce a fine or dismiss a violation, but it is not guaranteed statewide.

Suspension & Reinstatement

Multiple or serious violations in RI can trigger suspension under Habitual Offender laws. If suspended, you must serve your suspension and pay a $150 fee to reinstate.

Record Improvement

Keep violations off your record; older ones often drop after 3 years. Courts sometimes use a “good driving statute” if you have 3+ years clean to dismiss a minor ticket.

South Carolina

Point System & Eligibility

South Carolina drivers with points on their license can take a Driver Training course to reduce their total points by 4 points. This in-person course is 8 hours long and must be taken in South Carolina. You can take this course every 3 years.

Defensive Driving Courses / Traffic School

Completing this 8-hour defensive driving course reduces your point total by 4. You can only do this once every 3 years.

Suspension & Reinstatement

South Carolina suspends at 12 points. For example, 12–15 points = 3-month suspension. Points automatically halve after 1 year and drop off altogether at 2 years. If suspended, serve the term, pay a $100 reinstatement fee, and your points reset.

Record Improvement

Combine the 4-point reduction course with South Carolina’s time-based reductions. If you have 10 points now, taking the course lowers them to 6. One year without violations halves them to 3; at two years, they go to 0.

South Dakota

Point System & Eligibility

South Dakota’s Department of Public Safety doesn’t have a point reduction program, and it doesn’t use a point system for standard traffic violations.

Defensive Driving Courses / Traffic School

There is no official program for point reduction. Courts might reduce fines if you attend a course, but it doesn’t remove anything from a record.

Suspension & Reinstatement

South Dakota can suspend a license for multiple convictions in a short period or serious offenses. You must pay a $50 fee to reinstate after serving the suspension.

Record Improvement

With no points, just avoid frequent violations. Minor violations typically drop from your record after a few years.

Tennessee

Point System & Eligibility

Tennessee does not have a point reduction program. However, if you get 12 or more points in a 12-month period, you will receive a notice of proposed suspension and be allowed to request an administrative hearing. In most cases, you can take a Defensive Driving course to either wipe out the suspension or shorten it.

Defensive Driving Courses / Traffic School

Tennessee doesn’t let you take a course on your own to remove points. However, if you accumulate 12 points, the Department of Safety may allow you to avoid or reduce a 6-month suspension by completing a defensive driving course and going on probation.

Suspension & Reinstatement

At 12 points in 12 months, TN issues a proposed suspension (6 months). You can attend an administrative hearing; for the first time, they often grant probation + an 8-hour driver improvement course. If you get additional points during probation, your license is suspended. Points expire after 2 years.

Record Improvement

Points drop off after 2 years. If you are facing a 12-point suspension, attend the hearing and accept probation with the course – that keeps your license. Some Tennessee judges allow traffic schools for minor violations to avoid a conviction.

Texas

Point System & Eligibility

Texas does not have a drivers license point reduction program. Texas repealed its point system in 2019, so there are no points to remove.

Defensive Driving Courses / Traffic School

Texas drivers can take a Driving Safety Course (DSC) to dismiss one eligible ticket every 12 months. This keeps that citation off your record entirely.

Suspension & Reinstatement

Since points are gone, suspensions come from repeated or severe violations (e.g., four convictions in 12 months). After a suspension, pay a $100 fee and fulfill SR-22 insurance if needed.

Record Improvement

Without a point system, focus on avoiding multiple convictions. Dismissing minor tickets via DSC keeps them off your record. Over time, older violations drop off insurance look-backs (usually 3 years).

Utah

Point System & Eligibility

Utah drivers can have 50 points removed from their record by taking an approved Driver Improvement course once every three years.

Defensive Driving Courses / Traffic School

An approved defensive driving course yields a 50-point reduction. You can only do this once every 3 years.

Suspension & Reinstatement

Utah suspends at 200 points (or less for younger drivers). Points remain on your record for 3 years. Still, the state automatically halves your total after 1 year of violation-free driving and clears it after 2 years. After suspension, pay fees and possibly show proof of a course to reinstate.

Record Improvement

Combine the 50-point reduction course with time-based reductions. One year of clean driving halves your points; two years clear them entirely. This quickly manages your point total.

Vermont

Point System & Eligibility

The state of Vermont does not have a drivers license point reduction program. If you get 10 or more points in a two-year period, your license will be suspended.

Defensive Driving Courses / Traffic School

There is no official program to subtract points. Some courts may allow a ticket amendment or partial dismissal, but not a statewide standard.

Suspension & Reinstatement

10 points in 2 years = suspension. You must serve the suspension and pay fees. Points expire after 2 years from conviction.

Record Improvement

Only time or avoiding new violations helps. Once 2 years pass from the conviction date, those points drop off.

Virginia

Point System & Eligibility

Virginia license holders can voluntarily take a DMV-approved Driver Improvement Clinic every 24 months to earn five safe driving points on their record.

Defensive Driving Courses / Traffic School

An 8-hour driver improvement clinic yields +5 safe driving points. This effectively offsets future demerits rather than removing existing demerits.

Suspension & Reinstatement

Virginia suspends for excessive negative points. If you accumulate too many demerit points, you face suspension and are required to complete a clinic. After a suspension, pay fees and possibly provide an SR-22 to reinstate.

Record Improvement

You can voluntarily visit the 8-hour driver improvement clinic every two years to add five safe points. Over time, negative points drop (usually after two years) while safe points remain, improving your overall standing.

Washington

Point System & Eligibility

Washington DOL does not use a driver’s license point system to track traffic violations. However, it maintains a record of past convictions. Serious or repeated violations may result in license suspension or revocation.

Defensive Driving Courses / Traffic School

There is no official course to remove points (none exist). Some courts may offer ticket dismissal courses, but that’s not statewide.

Suspension & Reinstatement

Washington suspends licenses for habitual offenses (20+ moving violations in 5 years or three major offenses in 5 years). After a revocation (often 7 years for Habitual Traffic Offender), you pay reinstatement fees and may need SR-22.

Record Improvement

Avoid repeated violations. Over time (3–5 years), older convictions lose impact for insurance and license status.

West Virginia

Point System & Eligibility

West Virginia drivers can take a DMV-certified Defensive Driving course once every 12 months to remove 3 points from their driving record. The defensive driving course must be taken in person; online courses are not allowed.

Defensive Driving Courses / Traffic School

Completing this course reduces your active point total by 3. However, you can’t use it as “credit” for future violations. It must be taken once every 12 months.

Suspension & Reinstatement

West Virginia suspends at 12 points. For example, 12 points = a 30-day suspension. Points drop off after 2 years. If your license is suspended, you must serve the suspension term and pay fees, and you may be required to complete a course to reinstate it.

Record Improvement

If you have active points, use the 3-point reduction once a year. Also, drive safely so that old points drop off after 2 years.

Wisconsin

Point System & Eligibility

Wisconsin drivers can reduce their drivers license point total by 3 points by taking a state approved Traffic Safety course. This can only be done once every 3 years.

Defensive Driving Courses / Traffic School

Completion of an approved Traffic Safety course yields a 3-point reduction. You can do this every 3 years.

Suspension & Reinstatement

Wisconsin suspends at 12 points in 12 months (2-month suspension). Each violation’s points stay on your record for 5 years. After suspension, pay a $60 fee to reinstate.

Record Improvement

Take the Traffic Safety course to knock off 3 points if you have points. Let older points expire after 5 years. Courts may allow a course for a new ticket, so no points are assessed.

Wyoming

Point System & Eligibility

Wyoming DOT does not have a point system for traffic violations. However, it keeps a record of past convictions. Serious or repeated offenses may result in license suspension or revocation.

Defensive Driving Courses / Traffic School

There is no point system to reduce. Courts might allow a course to dismiss or amend a ticket.

Suspension & Reinstatement

Suspensions occur for repeated or severe offenses. You must serve the suspension, pay reinstatement fees, and fulfill court-ordered courses.

Record Improvement

Since there are no points, keep your driving record free of convictions. Over time (3–5 years), older violations become less relevant to insurers.

Final Tips for Removing Points from your Drivers License

1. Check Eligibility Early
2. If you receive a traffic citation, determine whether your state (or local court) allows a defensive driving course or diversion before the conviction finalizes. Often, this prevents points or convictions from ever showing up.
3. Monitor Your Record
4. Request a copy of your driving record regularly (e.g., yearly). This helps you see any errors or if older violations have dropped off.
5. Use Time Wisely
6. Many states reduce or drop points after a set period (1–3 years). Plan to keep your record clean so older points or violations expire.
7. Leverage Courses
8. Even in states without official “point reduction,” a course might help with insurance discounts, court plea bargains, or showing good faith at a DMV hearing.
9. Stay Proactive
10. Use any defensive driving course or hearing to reduce or avoid a license suspension if you’re near a suspension threshold. Safe driving is the best “point reduction” over time.

Disclaimer: Traffic Laws and policies can change. Always verify current requirements with your local DMV or official state website, as each jurisdiction may update rules, fees, or procedures without notice.