Indiana courts may assign drivers “points” to a driver’s license as punishment for traffic violations. The Indiana Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV) keeps track of these points in order to identify drivers who need to improve their habits behind the wheel. If you accumulate too many points—that is, 20 or more—your license will likely be suspended.
If you are pulled over while driving, you probably know to expect a citation. When you attend your assigned court date, you face two possible penalties for a violation: a fine and points being added to your driving record. Too many points can have major consequences on your driving privileges, but there are ways to reduce those points—and they do expire over time.
Points don’t just put you at risk for license suspension; they can also drive up your car insurance
rates. Fortunately, car insurance super app and licensed broker Jerry
is here with everything you need to know about driver’s license points in Indiana. We can even help you find the best car insurance rates in Indiana
. How many points can you have on your license before it’s suspended in Indiana?
Indiana drivers who accrue 20 or more points
face license suspension
. You’ll generally receive a warning letter from the BMV when you’ve accumulated 14 points, outlining the exact penalties of future traffic violations. The duration of your suspension will depend on the exact number of points on your license:
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How the point system works in Indiana
When you are pulled over by law enforcement in Indiana, you will likely receive a traffic ticket. That ticket will require you to attend a court date, where—if you’re found guilty—the punishments for your violation could include a fine and points on your license.
The exact amount of points assigned will depend on the severity of the citation
. Some common citations and their corresponding point values are as follows: | |
|---|
Speeding 1-15 mph over the limit | |
Failure to use headlights | |
No brake or signal lights | |
Speeding 16-25 mph over the limit | |
Disregard stop/yield sign | |
| |
| |
| |
Improper motorcycle headgear | |
Improper motorcycle passenger | |
Speeding 26+ mph over the limit | |
Failure to yield to emergency vehicle | |
Following too closely (“tailgating”) | |
| |
| |
How to reduce points
The best way to avoid having your license suspended is to avoid accumulating points altogether. Driving safely and following all traffic laws will ensure you never get pulled over.
However, if you’ve already begun accumulating points and are concerned that your license will be suspended, there are ways to reduce the amount of points on your license.
Point expiration. All assigned points expire two years after the conviction date. Keep in mind that the conviction will remain on your record, but the points associated will no longer be counted.
Point credit. Drivers can earn a point credit by completing a BMV-approved driver safety program.
Driver safety program
If you are convicted of a traffic violation and the BMV assigns points, you may qualify to take the Driver Safety Program (DSP) or Defensive Driving Course (DDC). Successful completion of these courses will allow you to receive a 4-point credit on your driving record. Keep in mind that you are only able to take these courses for credit once every three years.
Additionally, the courts may require you to complete DSP or DDC as part of your punishment. Often, if a person is convicted of two or more offenses in a 12-month period, a driver safety program will be required. You will still receive the point credit, even if the course is required. If you fail to complete the course in time your license faces suspension.
How to save on car insurance
Accumulating points on your license doesn’t just put you at risk for suspension—it can also drive up your car insurance rates. Driving history is one of the biggest factors that insurance companies consider when pricing your policy. Fortunately, car insurance
super app Jerry
can help you comparison shop to get the best rates, regardless of your driving record. Jerry is the easiest and most effective way to find a car insurance policy that is customized for you.
After providing you with a comprehensive cross-analysis of the best policies across providers, Jerry will handle the phone calls, paperwork, and renewals for your top pick so that you don’t have to. They can even help cancel your old policy!
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