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

As a new driver in Ohio, one of the most important systems to understand is the driver's license point system. Managed by the Ohio Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV), this system is designed to track traffic violations and identify drivers who may pose a risk on the road. [7] Earning a driver's license is a significant responsibility, and keeping your driving record clean from the very beginning is crucial for maintaining your driving privileges and keeping your insurance rates down.

This guide will explain how the Ohio point system works, the number of points assigned for common violations, and the consequences of accumulating too many points.

How Does the Point System Work?

When a driver is convicted of a moving violation in Ohio, the court notifies the BMV, which then assigns a specific number of points to the driver's record. [11] These points are based on the severity of the offense. The system serves as a way to monitor driving behavior over time.

Points remain on your record for a period of two years from the date of the conviction. [11] If you accumulate too many points within a specific timeframe, you will face penalties from the BMV.

How Many Points for Common Violations?

Moving violations in Ohio are generally assigned 2, 4, or 6 points. [11]

6-Point Violations (Most Serious)

These are reserved for the most dangerous offenses, including:

• Operating a Vehicle Under the Influence (OVI/DUI) [7]
• Leaving the scene of an accident (hit-skip)
• Street racing
• Fleeing from a police officer
• Vehicular homicide or assault [11]

4-Point Violations

These are for serious offenses that demonstrate a disregard for safety:

• Reckless operation of a vehicle [7]
• Speeding 30 mph or more over the speed limit [7, 11]

2-Point Violations

This is the most common category for traffic tickets. Examples include:

• Speeding (depending on the speed and limit) [7]
• Running a stop sign or red light [7]
• Failure to yield [7]
• Improper lane change or turn
• Following too closely
• Texting while driving [7]

Note on Speeding: The points for speeding can be nuanced. For example, going 10 mph or less over a 55 mph speed limit might carry 0 points, while going 11 mph over would be a 2-point violation. [11]

The Consequences of Accumulating Points

The BMV takes action once your point total reaches certain thresholds.

The 6-Point Warning Letter

If you accumulate 6 points on your license within a two-year period, the BMV will send you a formal warning letter. [7] This letter lists your violations and serves as an official notice that you are halfway to a potential license suspension. Consider this your wake-up call to adjust your driving habits immediately.

The 12-Point Suspension

This is the most severe penalty under the point system. If you accumulate 12 or more points on your license within a two-year period, the BMV will automatically suspend your driving privileges for six months. [7, 9, 16]

If your license is suspended, you will receive a notice from the BMV. The suspension typically becomes effective 20 days after the notice is mailed. [7]

Reinstating Your License After a 12-Point Suspension

Getting your license back after a six-month suspension is not automatic. You must meet several requirements:

1. Serve the full six-month suspension.
2. Complete a remedial driving course. [7]
3. Provide proof of auto insurance (an SR-22 bond). [7]
4. Pay a reinstatement fee. [7]
5. Retake the complete driver's license examination (knowledge test and road test). [7, 16]

How to Keep Your Record Clean and Potentially Reduce Points

• Drive Defensively: The best method is prevention. Always drive safely, obey all traffic laws, and avoid risky behaviors.
• Remedial Driving Course Credit: In Ohio, you can voluntarily complete an approved remedial driving course before you reach 12 points. Doing so provides you with a 2-point credit on your record. [11] This credit is a one-time offer within a three-year period and can be used up to five times in your lifetime. This credit doesn't erase points but effectively raises the suspension threshold from 12 to 14 points.
• Check Your Driving Record: You can order a copy of your unofficial driving record from the Ohio BMV's website to see your current point total. [11]

Understanding the Ohio point system is a key part of being a responsible driver. By prioritizing safety and knowing the consequences, you can protect your driving record and enjoy the freedom of the open road for years to come.