Traffic violations, such as speeding or driving through a stop sign, can raise your car insurance premiums for several years. Fortunately, you may be able to reduce the points or keep them off your driving record altogether, allowing you to minimize or prevent rate increases. To get started, learn more about the point system in North Carolina below. 

How Does the Point System Work in North Carolina?

In North Carolina, the Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV) uses a point system to keep track of traffic violations. Each traffic violation carries a certain number of points, ranging from one to five points. For instance, speeding tickets usually carry two or three points while running a red light can add three points to your license.

If you accumulate too many points within a certain period, the DMV can take action against your license. For drivers under the age of 18, accumulating just one point can result in license suspension. For drivers 18 years or older, accumulating 12 or more points within three years can result in license suspension.

How Can You Avoid or Remove Points?

The good news is that there are ways to keep points off your license. One option is to attend a defensive driving course. By completing a course, you can have up to three points removed from your license. However, this option is only available once every five years.

Another option is to contest the traffic violation in court. If you believe that you were wrongly accused of the violation, you can plead not guilty and fight the ticket in court. If you win the case, no points will be added to your license.

If you have already accumulated points on your license, there are ways to remove them. One option is to wait for the points to expire. In North Carolina, points remain on your license for three years from the date of the violation. Once the three years have passed, the points will be removed automatically.

Alternatively, you can request a hearing with the DMV to have the points removed. This option is only available if you have accumulated less than eight points within three years. You can request a hearing by completing the appropriate form and paying a fee. If the hearing officer agrees that you have a good driving record, they may remove some or all of the points from your license.

If you’re facing points due to a traffic violation, you may need the help of an attorney to avoid losing your license. Fulcher Law Firm in Albemarle, NC, protects the rights of drivers in Montgomery and Stanly counties and brings nearly 20 years of service to each case. Find out more about how they can help with traffic tickets online or call (704) 984-6060 to schedule a consultation today.