Washington D.C.’s Traffic Violation Point System

To keep track of traffic violation convictions, Washington D.C. uses a point system. This article explains how D.C.'s traffic ticket point system works, including the consequences you'll face if you get too many points on your record.

How Does Washington D.C.'s Traffic Ticket Point System Work?

After a motorist is convicted of a traffic violation, the court reports the conviction to the D.C. Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV). The DMV then assigns points to the driver's record. The number of points for each traffic violation depends on the severity of the offense (see chart below).

D.D. motorists who rack up too many points can face suspension, probation, or license revocation. The good news is that points don't stay on your record forever and it's sometimes possible to avoid license suspension even if you exceed the number of points that would normally lead to license loss (explained below)

License Suspension and Other Consequences of Traffic Violation Points in Washington D.C.

In D.C., points can certainly result in the loss of driving privileges. However, license suspension isn't always mandatory.

License Suspension for Too Many Points in the District of Columbia

A driver with at least eight points in two years is subject to license-related penalties. At eight or nine points, license suspension isn't mandatory, but is at the discretion of the DMV.

For drivers who accumulate ten points, a 90-day suspension is mandatory.

License Revocation for Too Many Points in the District of Columbia

When a driver reaches 12 points, the DMV will issue a driver's license revocation notice. The minimum revocation period is six months. A driver who has a prior point revocation faces a revocation of up to one year. The minimum revocation is two years for drivers with two prior point suspensions.

Probation and Requesting a Hearing Following a Point Suspension or Revocation in D.C.

The suspension or revocation will generally take effect ten days after the notice is sent but can be stayed if the driver files an objection and requests a hearing. The administrative hearing officer is allowed to review the record and make corrections.

The hearing officer can also order probation depending on the circumstances. Probation requirements might include license restrictions and completion of a defensive driving course. But by completing the conditions of the probation, the driver can avoid suspension or revocation.

Getting an Occupational License in D.C. Following a Point-Related Suspension or Revocation

The hearing officer can also issue an occupational license for drivers who can show the loss of driving privileges would amount to extreme hardship. This license can be used to drive to work or school but is usually limited to certain hours and routes. Committing a traffic violation with an occupational license will result in immediate revocation and the doubling of the initial suspension or revocation period.

Drivers with 16 or more points are not eligible for the occupational license.

How Long Do Traffic Ticket Points Stay on Your D.C. Driving Record?

All points are deleted two years from the date of the assessment.

Drivers will also accumulate safe driving points for going 12 months without traffic violations. One safe driving point is issued annually, and drivers can accrue up to five points credits.

Points Values for Specific Traffic Violations in Washington D.C.

The District of Columbia assigns the following point values to moving violations. Both in-district and out-of-district violations are counted. Violations resolved via a diversion or payment program can also result in a point assessment.

Violation	Points Assessed
Permit restriction violation	4
Unlisted violation	2
Unlisted violation contributing to accident	3
Speeding 11 to 15 miles per hour over limit	3
Speeding 16 to 20 miles per hour over limit	4
Speeding 21 or more miles per hour over limit	5
Hit and run (property damage)	8
Hit and run (injuries)	12
Reckless driving	6
Aggravated reckless driving	12
Driving while suspended or revoked	12
Using license of another person	12
Felony involving motor vehicle	12
Misdemeanor involving motor vehicle	6
Failing to give right-of-way to emergency vehicle	6
Tailgating	2
Failing to stop for school bus signals	4
Fleeing or eluding an officer	12
Expired license (less than 90 days)	2
Failure to give right-of-way to pedestrian or cyclist	3 (6 if results in collision)
Overtaking vehicle at crosswalk	3
Seatbelt violation	2 (3 for repeat offense)