Delaware’s Traffic Violation Point System

Delaware established the "Driver Improvement Problem Driver Program" to identify problematic drivers and prevent crashes. To this end, drivers who are convicted of a traffic infraction will receive demerit points on their record. This article explains Delaware's traffic violation point system and the consequences of getting too many points.

How Does Delaware's Traffic Violation Point System Work?

Under Delaware's point system, drivers will receive points on their records for most traffic tickets. The number of points depends on the seriousness of the violation (see chart below).

Driving who rack up too many points face license suspension and educational requirements. However, points won't stay on your record forever, you can voluntarily take a defensive driving class to get points off your record (explained below).

License Suspension and Consequences of Acquiring Too Many Demerit Points in Delaware

Drivers who accumulate at least eight points must participate in the Problem Driver Program. These drivers will receive an advisory letter outlining the program.

Drivers with at least 12 points are subject to the following license-related penalties:

Delaware Drivers With 12 Point Must Complete a Driver's Education Course

At 12 points, drivers are sent a notice to complete a behavior modification driving course. Failure to complete this course within 90 days will result in a two-month suspension.

14 or More Points Leads to License Suspension in Delaware

At 14 points, the driver's license will be suspended for four months. The suspension length increases by two months (up to 12 months) for every two additional points. For example, the driver would receive a six-month suspension for 16 points and a 12-month suspension for 22 points. All drivers who reach 14 or more points must complete the behavior modification driving course prior to license reinstatement.

Drivers facing suspension can request an interview with a driver improvement officer to discuss their record, extensions of time, and alternative penalties like reexamination.

How Long Points Stay on Your Record in Delaware

Twelve months after a violation, the ticket's point value is reduced by half. The point assessment will be removed altogether 24 months after the violation.

Getting Points Off Your Record in Delaware

Completion of a certified defensive driving course will remove up to three points from the driver's record.

Getting an Occupational License After a Point Suspension in Delaware

Drivers suspended for excessive points can request an occupational license. This license can be used to drive to and from work and school. However, the driver must complete 30 days of the suspension prior to becoming eligible for an occupational license, and drivers with 15 or more points are not eligible for the license at all.

Points Values for Specific Traffic Violations in Delaware

Here are some of the point values for common Delaware moving violations. Even if the violation occurs in another state, Delaware will still assign the associated points.

Points Values for Specific Violations in Delaware

Here are some of the point values for common Delaware moving violations. Even if the violation occurs in another state, Delaware will still assign the associated points.

Violation	Points assessed
Speeding 1 to 9 miles per hour over limit	2
Speeding 10 to 14 miles per hour over limit	4
Speeding 15 to 19 miles per hour over limit	5
Speeding 20 or more miles per hour over limit	5
Passing a stopped school bus	6
Reckless driving	6
Operation causing death	6
Aggressive driving	6
Traffic sign violation	3
Any other moving violation	2

More serious violations carry a separate suspension and additional license-related penalties.