Michigan’s Traffic Violation Point System

In Michigan, traffic offense convictions normally result in fines and fees. Many traffic violations also lead to the Michigan Secretary of State assessing demerit points to the driver’s record. This article explains Michigan's traffic violation point system and the consequences of racking up too many points.

How Does Michigan's Traffic Violation Point System Work?

For most traffic violation convictions, the Secretary of State will assess points to the driver's record. The number of points depends on the seriousness of the violation (see chart below).

Drivers who accumulate too many points face certain consequences, which can include license suspension. However, points expire after several years, and drivers have options for avoiding points altogether (see below).

License Suspension and Consequences of Getting Too Many Points in Michigan

A driver with at least four points will often receive a warning letter from the Secretary of state, informing the driver of the possible penalties of future violations. A driver with nine points will likely receive a letter requesting the driver appear for an "interview." The interview will not result in license penalties, but failure to appear for the interview can result in three added points.

A driver with at least 12 points (or six speeding tickets in two years) will ordinarily receive an order to appear for "examination." The examiner will review the driver’s history and may require the driver to retake the licensing test or complete a driver improvement course. The examiner can also suspend the driver’s license for up to one year. Failure to attend the examination will result in indefinite license suspension.

New drivers holding a learner’s permit or probationary license can be suspended for acquiring six points or for committing a single violation that’s worth at least four points.

How Long Do Points Stay on Your Driving Record in Michigan?

The points from a conviction remain on the driver’s record for two years before expiring.

How You Can Avoid Points for a Violation in Michigan

Certain minor traffic violations are eligible for point forgiveness. A driver who commits one of these violations will generally receive a notice from the Secretary of State indicating the option for point forgiveness. A driver who completes a basic driver improvement course within 60 days of notification will not have any points assessed to his or her license.

You Can Appeal a Point-Related Suspension in Michigan

Drivers can appeal the examiner’s decision to the local court for review within 63 days. The local court has the authority to overturn, affirm, or modify the suspension. The court is also permitted to issue a restricted license, which can authorize limited travel during the suspension period.

Point Values for Traffic Tickets in Michigan

Here are the numbers of points for various violations in Michigan.

Some violations, such as texting and driving, don’t result in points.