How Does the Missouri Driver's License Point System Work?
Understanding the Missouri Driver's License Point System
If you are a licensed driver in Missouri, it is important to understand the point system used by the state's Department of Revenue. This point system is used to keep track of your driving record and to enforce safe driving habits among all motorists.
How it Works
Every time you are convicted of a moving violation, a certain number of points will be added to your license. These points range from 2 to 12, depending on the severity of the offense. For example, failing to come to a complete stop at a stop sign will result in 2 points, while leaving the scene of an accident will result in 12 points. A reference for the point value of Missouri Traffic Offenses can be found here: https://dor.mo.gov/forms/899.pdf
If you accumulate too many points within a certain timeframe, your license could be suspended or revoked. Here's a breakdown of the point accumulation and consequences:
4 points within 12 months: You will receive a warning letter from the Department of Revenue.
8 points within 18 months:
First suspension: Your license will be suspended for 30 days.
Second suspension: Your license will be suspended for 60 days.
Third suspension: Your license will be suspended for 90 days.
12 points within 12 months: Your license will be revoked for one year.
18 points within 24 months: Your license will be revoked for one year.
24 or more points within 36 months: Your license will be revoked for one year.
It's important to note that not all moving violations result in points being added to your license. For example, a seat belt violation will not result in any points being added. Or, if the Imposition of Sentence is Suspended (SIS), points will not be assessed unless you have a Commercial Driver’s License (Class A CDL).
Missouri Driver's License Point System - Point Reduction
After your driving privileges are reinstated in Missouri, the Department of Revenue provides a path for point reduction on your record. The process involves reducing your total points to 4. Furthermore, if you maintain a clean driving record without any new points for consecutive years, your points will progressively diminish:
1 year: One-third of your remaining points will be removed.
2 years: Half of the remaining points will be removed.
3 years: All points will be reduced to zero.
Note that fractional points may result from the clean driving record reduction in points
This process allows drivers to regain their good standing and encourages safe driving habits on the roads of Missouri. By consistently driving without any traffic violations, you can gradually eliminate the points on your record and maintain a clean driving history.
Remember, adopting responsible driving practices not only helps in the reduction of points but also promotes a safer environment for everyone on the road. Stay attentive, follow traffic laws, and drive defensively.
Keeping Your Record Clean
It's always best to avoid traffic violations altogether to ensure your license stays clean. This can be achieved by following the rules of the road, driving defensively, and always being aware of your surroundings.
If you do receive a traffic violation, you may be able to avoid having points added to your license by hiring an experienced traffic attorney who can negotiate the outcome of your traffic ticket to avoid a conviction, points, and/or a suspension/revocation. The availability of a no-points amendment or SIS depends on the type of ticket, your driver’s record, and the jurisdiction in which you were ticketed, and can even vary judge to judge in the same city or county. If your ticket cannot be amended, and you are not able to obtain or interested in an SIS, you can reduce the point value of your offense to zero by taking a Driver Improvement Program (“DIP”). This course costs about $15, takes approximately eight hours to complete, and can be done online. Note that DIP can only be completed once every three years, and must first be ordered by the Court in order for the ticket to be DIP-eligible if you do not pay the ticket out of court without a lawyer. Information on DIP can be found here: http://mosafetycenter.com/grants/driver-improvement-program/ , but it may be worth it to avoid having your license suspended or revoked.
Conclusion
Understanding the Missouri driver's license point system is important for all drivers. It's essential to follow the rules of the road and to avoid accumulating too many points on your license. If you find yourself in a situation where you are facing the consequences of a traffic ticket, contact the experienced attorneys and their staff at Faber Law Firm for more information on how we can assist you in keeping your driver’s record clean and your driver’s license free of points.