The North Carolina Point System Explained: How to Keep a Clean Driving Record
When you get your North Carolina driver's license, you also become subject to the state's Driver License Point System. This is the method the N.C. Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV) uses to track your driving convictions. When you are found guilty of a moving violation, a specific number of "demerit points" are added to your driving record.
Think of it as a score you want to keep as low as possible. Accumulating too many points in a set period identifies you as a driver who may pose a risk on the road, triggering actions that can range from a warning letter to a full license suspension. Understanding how this system works from day one is essential for protecting your driving privileges and keeping your insurance rates in check.
How the North Carolina Point System Works
The system is straightforward: the more serious the traffic violation, the more points are assigned to it. If you accumulate a certain number of points within a specific timeframe, the DMV will take action.
The two key numbers to remember are 7 and 12.
- If you accumulate 7 points, you may be assigned to a Driver Improvement Clinic.
- If you accumulate 12 points within a three-year period, your license may be suspended.
It's also important to know that accumulating 8 points within three years after your license has been reinstated from a prior suspension will trigger a second suspension.
Common Violations and Their Point Values
While there is a long list of violations, knowing the point values for common offenses shows how quickly they can add up.
| Violation | Driver License Points | Insurance Points (Typical) |
|---|---|---|
| Passing a stopped school bus | 5 | 4 |
| Aggressive driving | 5 | 8 |
| Reckless driving | 4 | 4 |
| Hit and run (property damage) | 4 | 4 |
| Following too closely | 4 | 2 |
| Speeding over 55 mph | 3 | 2 or 4 |
| Speeding in a school zone | 3 | 4 |
| Failure to yield right-of-way | 3 | 1 |
| Running a stop sign or red light | 3 | 1 |
| Driving on the wrong side of the road | 4 | 2 |
| Illegal passing | 4 | 2 |
| Texting while driving | 0 | 1 |
Driver License Points vs. Insurance Points
It is crucial to understand that North Carolina has two separate point systems:
- Driver License Points (DMV Points): These are assessed by the NCDMV and are used to determine if your license should be suspended.
- Insurance Points (SDIP Points): This is a separate system created by the N.C. Department of Insurance. Your insurance company uses these points to determine how much to raise your premium after a conviction. As you can see in the chart, insurance points are often much more severe. A conviction for aggressive driving is 8 insurance points, which can lead to a premium increase of nearly 200%.
The Consequences of Accumulating DMV Points
The penalties for gaining points are progressive.
- At 7 Points: The DMV may send you a warning letter and give you the option to attend a Driver Improvement Clinic. Completing this clinic can remove 3 points from your DMV record.
- At 12 Points (within 3 years): This is the trigger for a license suspension. Your first suspension may last for up to 60 days.
- After Reinstatement: If you accumulate 8 points within three years following your license reinstatement, you face a second suspension, which can last for up to 6 months. A third suspension can last for up to 12 months.
How to Manage and Reduce Your DMV Points
While the best method is to drive safely and avoid violations, you have options if you do receive points.
Attending a Driver Improvement Clinic
- Voluntary Attendance: You can choose to attend a state-approved, 4-hour Driver Improvement Clinic.
- Point Reduction: Upon successful completion, the clinic will notify the DMV, and 3 points will be removed from your DMV driving record.
- Limitations: You can only receive a point reduction from this clinic once every five years.
- Mandatory Attendance: If the DMV orders you to attend a clinic (at 7 points), you must complete it to avoid suspension. Completing it under these circumstances will also remove 3 points.
How long do points stay on your record?
DMV points from a conviction are automatically removed from your record after three years. However, the record of the conviction itself remains on your driving abstract permanently and can be viewed by insurance companies and law enforcement.
Your driving record is a direct reflection of your commitment to safety. By understanding the North Carolina point system, the difference between DMV and insurance points, and the options available for point reduction, you can protect your license, keep your insurance costs manageable, and contribute to safer roads for everyone.
