Getting a traffic ticket is never a good situation. Not only are traffic tickets expensive, but they result in points on your license, which can in return, raise your insurance and even cause you to lose your license entirely. But which violations incur the most points? And how many points can you tack onto your record before experiencing serious consequences? We’re detailing everything you need to know about Florida’s DHSMV Point System below.
Florida (Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles) DHSMV Point System
Point systems vary on a state-by-state basis, so it’s important to keep that in mind if you’re traveling or move to another state. For Florida, infractions carry different point values depending on how serious the violation is.
3-Point Driving Infractions in Florida
The least severe penalty includes minor moving and speeding violations (such as driving 15 miles per hour over the speed limit). These will result in three points added to your license and can typically be avoided by taking the basic driver improvement course — as long as you’re not a habitual offender.
Infractions include:
- Failure to yield
- Running a stop sign
- Seatbelt violations
- Curfew violations
- Open container
4-Point Driving Infractions in Florida
These traffic tickets carry a higher point count than three-point violations because they are considered more dangerous to others.
Infractions include:
- Passing a stopped school bus
- Driving more than 15 miles per hour over the speed limit
- Running a red light
- Reckless driving
- Any moving violation that results in an accident
6-Point Driving Infractions in Florida
Six-point infractions include instances considered extremely careless and negligent. These instances typically include a large increase in insurance costs along with steep fines.
Infractions include:
- Leaving the scene of an accident
- Speeding that results in an accident
- Moving violations resulting in bodily harm
How Many Points in Florida Before License is Suspended?
If you receive 12 or more points within a 12-month period your license will automatically be suspended for 30 days. If you accumulate 18 or more points within an 18-month period you will have your license revoked for a period of three months. For extremely careless drivers who accumulate 24 points within 36 months, you will lose your license for, at minimum, one entire year. You will also typically need to take an advanced driver improvement course to get your license reinstated.
Every point you acquire on your license will increase your auto insurance by a certain amount. An accumulation of points will make you a habitual offender.
Helpful Resources for Drivers
- Understanding Your Insurance
- What to Do After a Car Accident in Florida
- License Suspension Information
Contact Clark Hartpence Law for Traffic Violation Attorneys in Tampa Bay, FL
If you have had or are at risk of having your license suspended or revoked, it’s important you have an experienced attorney on your side. The attorneys at Clark Hartpence Law are here if you have any questions or concerns. Please contact us immediately at (855) 680-4911 so we can help guide you through this difficult process and protect your rights under the law.
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