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

When you get your Mississippi 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 Mississippi Department of Public Safety (DPS) tracks traffic convictions.

Unlike many states that use a "point" system, Mississippi's system is based on the number and severity of moving violations on your record. If you accumulate too many convictions in a short period, you will face serious consequences, including mandatory driver improvement courses and the suspension of your license.

How the Mississippi System Works: A Record of Convictions

Instead of assigning points, the DPS simply records each moving violation conviction on your driving record. Certain actions are triggered when you reach a specific number of violations within a set timeframe.

The Habitual Offender Threshold

You will be designated a "habitual offender" if you are convicted of:

• Three or more major violations (like DUI, reckless driving, etc.) in a five-year period.
• Ten or more moving violations that result in a license suspension within a five-year period.

The Consequences of Violations

The DPS takes progressive action as you accumulate convictions.

• Warning Letter: After your first conviction, the DPS may mail you a Warning Letter. This is your first official notice that a violation is on your record and that further convictions will lead to more serious consequences.

• Suspension for a Specific Offense: Many serious violations result in an automatic license suspension, regardless of your prior record. These include:

  • Driving Under the Influence (DUI): A conviction for DUI results in an immediate and lengthy license suspension.
  • Reckless driving.
  • Leaving the scene of an accident.
  • Driving with a suspended license.

A Powerful Tool: Defensive Driving Course / Traffic School

In Mississippi, many local courts offer the option to attend a Defensive Driving Course or Traffic School to handle a minor traffic ticket.

• How it Works: Instead of being convicted, you are allowed to complete the course. If you do so successfully, the court will often dismiss the ticket.
• The Benefit: Because the ticket is dismissed, it does not count as a conviction and is not reported to the DPS. This means it will not appear on your driving record and will not affect your insurance rates.
• Eligibility: This option is granted at the discretion of the judge and is typically only available for your first minor violation.

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 can lead to a conviction.
3. Request Traffic School: If you get a minor ticket, go to your court date and politely request the option to attend traffic school from the judge.

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