The West Virginia Point System Explained: Protecting Your Driving Record

As a new driver in West Virginia, your primary focus is on being safe and following the rules of the road. A crucial part of this is understanding the West Virginia Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV) point system. This system is designed to promote highway safety by monitoring the driving habits of motorists. Earning a traffic ticket isn't just about paying a fine; it can also result in points being added to your driving record, which can lead to serious consequences, including the suspension of your license.

This article will break down the West Virginia point system, explaining how points are assessed, the penalties for accumulating too many points, and what you can do to keep your record clean.

How Does the West Virginia Point System Work?

The DMV assigns a specific point value to different traffic violations based on the severity of the offense. When you are convicted of a moving violation, whether in West Virginia or another state, the corresponding points are added to your driving record.

Here are some examples of common traffic violations and their point values in West Virginia:

• 8 Points:
  • Fleeing from a police officer
• 6 Points:
  • Reckless driving
  • Hit and run (property damage only)
  • Speeding in a school zone
• 5 Points:
  • Speeding 15 mph or more over the speed limit
• 3 Points:
  • Speeding 10 to 14 mph over the speed limit
  • Failure to obey a stop sign or traffic light
  • Improper lane change or passing violation
  • Failure to yield the right-of-way
• 2 Points:
  • Speeding 5 to 9 mph over the speed limit
  • Following too closely
  • Improper turn or failure to signal

If you are convicted of multiple offenses from a single incident, you will only be assessed the points for the most serious offense.

The Consequences of Accumulating Points

The West Virginia DMV keeps a close watch on the number of points a driver accumulates.

• Warning Letter: If you accumulate 6 or more points, you will receive a warning letter from the DMV urging you to drive more cautiously.
• License Suspension: If you accumulate 12 or more points, your driver's license will be suspended.

The length of the suspension depends on the number of points on your record:

• 12 to 13 points: 30-day suspension
• 14 to 15 points: 45-day suspension
• 16 to 17 points: 60-day suspension
• 18 to 19 points: 90-day suspension
• 20 or more points: Your license will be suspended until your point total is reduced to 11 or fewer.

It's important to note that driving while your license is suspended can lead to an additional suspension period.

How Long Do Points Stay on Your Record?

In West Virginia, the points for a specific violation remain on your record for two years from the date of conviction. However, the record of the conviction itself will stay on your driving record for five years.

Can You Reduce the Points on Your Record?

Yes, there is a way to proactively reduce the number of points on your license.

• Defensive Driving Course (DDC): Any driver who voluntarily completes a state-approved Defensive Driving Course can have three points removed from their record.
• Limitations: You can only take a DDC for point reduction once every 12 months. This option is available to drivers with fewer than 14 points.
• Avoiding Suspension: If you have 12 or 13 points and are facing a 30-day suspension, you may be able to avoid it by completing the DDC and paying the reinstatement fee before the suspension start date.

Tips for Maintaining a Clean Driving Record

• Know the Rules: The best way to avoid tickets and points is to know and follow all traffic laws.
• Stay Focused: Avoid distracted driving, such as using your phone, eating, or anything else that takes your attention away from the road.
• Be Patient: Don't let impatience lead you to speed or make aggressive maneuvers.
• Drive Defensively: Always be aware of your surroundings and be prepared for the unexpected actions of other drivers.
• Check Your Record: You can request a copy of your driving record from the DMV to see your current point status.

As a new driver, you have a clean slate. By understanding the West Virginia point system and making a commitment to safe driving, you can keep it that way. A clean driving record not only keeps you legally on the road but can also help you save money on car insurance. Drive safely!