Florida’s Traffic Violation Point System

The Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (DMV) keeps a record of each driver's moving violation convictions using a point system. Each traffic conviction is assigned a point value, and drivers who accumulate too many points face license suspension.

Florida's Point Values for Traffic Tickets

The following list indicates the number of points assigned for various violations.

A violation that also includes unlawful use of a cellphone in a school zone adds two points.

Consequences of Getting Too Many Points

When a driver accumulates a certain number of points in a set amount of time, the DMV will send a notice indicating the length and terms of the driver's license suspension.

• 12 points in 12 months will result in a license suspension of up to 30 days
• 18 points in 18 months leads to a license suspension of up to three months, and
• 24 points in 36 months results in a license suspension of up to one year.

A driver can also be revoked if deemed a "habitual violator." Having 15 minor violations or three major traffic violations within five years can lead to a habitual violator designation.

The driver must also provide the DMV with proof of valid insurance or face vehicle registration suspension.

Reducing Points

All points expire after three years. Additionally, after reinstatement from a first suspension, the DMV will deduct three points from the driver's record.

For certain traffic offenses, the driver will be eligible for a driver improvement course. By completing this course, the driver can avoid the points for the violation. A driver can do a driver improvement course only once every 12 months.

Appeal

A suspended driver who wishes to appeal a notice of suspension generally must do so by filing a legal document in court. However, the driver can request an administrative hearing to ask for a reduction or hardship license.