Understanding the Ohio Driver’s License Point System
The Ohio driver’s license point system is applicable to all drivers in Ohio. Under this system, the Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV) assigns points for different traffic offenses. Any points assessed stay on record for a period of 2 years. The number of points increases with the gravity of the offense.
Understanding the Ohio Driver’s License Point System
Point Distribution Based on the Type of Violation
2-Point Violations
- Operating a motor vehicle by violating a restriction imposed by the BMV
- Reckless operation
- Speeding
- One-way traffic violation
- Driving center or left
- Crossing yellow line
- Improper passing
- Stopping a school bus
- Driving on a closed highway
- Using a prohibited U-turn
- Failure to turn
- Other moving violations
- Towing violations
- Violating traffic control lights and stop signs
4-Point Violations
- Disregard for the safety of pedestrians or property
- Driving under the influence of unlawful concentration of alcohol if you are under 21 years
6-Point Violations
- Drag racing
- Driving with an invalid or suspended license
- Hit and run
- Vehicular manslaughter
- Eluding or fleeing a law enforcement officer
- Driving under the influence of alcohol (OVI)
- Driving a motor vehicle with the consent of the owner
- Assault/vehicular homicide
- Felony involving a motor vehicle
What Happens If You Accumulate 12 Points or More?
Once you accumulate 12 points or more for conviction of offenses listed above, your license will be suspended for up to six months. Even if you plead guilty and pay the fine, the conviction status remains the same. The points reflect on your license for two years post-conviction.
Once you complete the six-month suspension, you will be required to complete a remedial driver’s education class, provide insurance proof, and take the driving test again to get your license reinstated. Moreover, if you complete an approved remedial driver’s education class prior to the accumulation of 12 or more points, you receive a two-point credit. You can take the remedial driver’s education course at the most five times in your lifetime, but three years apart.
How to Reduce Ohio Driver’s License Points
The best way to reduce your driver’s license points is to get in touch with a professional for help. Experienced lawyers can help you reduce the number of points on your license, advise you on how to get your license reinstated, and obtain exceptional privileges on your suspended license. Prosecuting attorneys have the authority to amend charges or reduce them. However, in the majority of cases, the prosecuting attorney does not amend or reduce the charges.
Contact us today for a free consultation of your case.
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