The Kentucky Point System Explained: How to Keep Your Driving Record Clean

When you get your Kentucky driver's license, you also receive a clean driving record. Keeping it that way is one of your most important responsibilities. To encourage safe driving and identify high-risk drivers, the Kentucky Transportation Cabinet (KYTC) uses a demerit point system.

Understanding this system from the moment you get your license is crucial. Every time you are convicted of a moving violation, points are added to your record. If you accumulate too many points, you will face serious consequences, including mandatory traffic school and the suspension of your license.

How the Kentucky Point System Works

The concept is straightforward: the state assigns a point value to different moving violations. The more serious the offense, the more points you receive. When you pay a ticket or are found guilty in court, the KYTC adds those points to your driving record. Points remain on your record for two years (24 months) from the date of the conviction.

The KYTC will take action based on the number of points you accumulate.

Point Values for Common Kentucky Traffic Violations

It's essential to know which actions carry the most weight. Here are the point values for some of the most common violations in Kentucky:

• 3 Point Violations:

  • Speeding (1-15 mph over the limit)
  • Failure to obey a stop sign or traffic light
  • Careless driving
  • Most other minor moving violations

• 4 Point Violations:

  • Reckless driving
  • Following too closely

• 5 Point Violations:

  • Improper passing

• 6 Point Violations:

  • Speeding (16-25 mph over the limit)
  • Leaving the scene of an accident

• Automatic Suspension Offenses:

  • Speeding (26 mph or more over the limit)
  • Passing a stopped school bus
  • Driving Under the Influence (DUI): A conviction for DUI results in an immediate and mandatory license suspension that operates outside the standard point system.

The Consequences of Accumulating Points

The KYTC takes progressive action as you accumulate points.

• Warning Letter: If you accumulate 6 points in a two-year period, the KYTC will mail you a Warning Letter. This is your first official notice that you are accumulating points and are at risk of further action.

• At 12 Points (for Adults 18+): This is the critical threshold. Once you accumulate 12 points in a two-year period, the KYTC will schedule you for a hearing, which could result in a license suspension.

• Stricter Rules for Teen Drivers (Under 18):

  • If a teen driver accumulates 7 points, the KYTC may require them to attend a hearing and could suspend their license.

A Powerful Tool: State Traffic School

Kentucky offers a way for some drivers to avoid a point-based suspension. If you are facing a suspension for accumulating too many points, you may be given the option to attend a State Traffic School.

• How it Works: Instead of having your license suspended, you can complete the traffic school course. Upon successful completion, your driving privilege will be placed on probation for a period of time.
• The Benefit: This allows you to continue driving, but any further violations during the probationary period will result in a suspension.
• Limitations: You can only use this option once every two years.

How to Keep Your Record Clean

1. Drive Safely: The most effective method is to avoid getting tickets in the first place by obeying all traffic laws.
2. Understand GDL Laws: For teens, violating your driving restrictions is a moving violation that will add points to your record.
3. Attend Traffic School: If you are given the option by a court or the KYTC, attending traffic school is a smart way to keep your license.

Your driving record is a direct reflection of your choices behind the wheel. By understanding the Kentucky point system, you can make informed decisions that will keep your record clean and keep you safe on the road.