Receiving a traffic ticket in North Carolina can be frustrating, but many drivers don’t realize just how much those tickets can impact their driving record and license status. Every moving violation adds points to your record, and too many points within a short period can lead to a suspension of your driver’s license. Understanding how North Carolina’s point system works can help you protect your license, avoid higher insurance premiums, and know when it’s time to call a traffic attorney for help.

Understanding the North Carolina Driver License Point System

The North Carolina Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV) uses a driver license point system to track traffic violations and identify repeat offenders. Each time you are convicted of a moving violation, a specific number of points is added to your driving record. The more serious the offense, the higher the number of points you receive.

If you accumulate too many points within a three-year period, the DMV can suspend your driver’s license. The general rule is that:

• Your license may be suspended if you earn 12 points within a three-year period.
• If your license has already been reinstated after a prior suspension, it can be suspended again if you receive 8 points within three years following reinstatement.

Once your license is suspended, it can remain that way for up to 60 days for a first suspension, six months for a second suspension, and up to a year for a third suspension. These penalties make it especially important to keep track of your driving record and address traffic tickets promptly before points accumulate.

How Points Are Assigned for Different Violations

Not all traffic violations carry the same number of points. The North Carolina DMV assigns points based on the severity of the offense. Here are some examples of common violations and their associated point values:

• Passing a stopped school bus – 5 points
• Reckless driving – 4 points
• Hit and run (property damage only) – 4 points
• Following too closely – 4 points
• Driving on the wrong side of the road – 4 points
• Illegal passing – 4 points
• Running a red light or stop sign – 3 points
• Failure to yield right of way – 3 points
• Speeding more than 10 mph over the posted limit – 3 points
• Driving without a license – 3 points
• Failure to properly restrain a child in a safety seat – 2 points

Even minor infractions can add up quickly, especially for drivers who spend a lot of time on the road. It only takes a few mistakes within a few years to reach the threshold that can lead to a suspension.

The Difference Between DMV Points and Insurance Points

Many drivers confuse DMV points with insurance points, but they are not the same thing. DMV points are used by the state to determine whether your driving privileges should be suspended. Insurance points, on the other hand, are used by insurance companies to calculate your premiums under the North Carolina Safe Driver Incentive Plan (SDIP).

Each traffic violation can result in both DMV points and insurance points. For example, a speeding ticket may add three points to your DMV record but two insurance points, which could increase your insurance premium by as much as 45 percent. More serious offenses, such as reckless driving or a DWI, can add multiple insurance points and cause rates to skyrocket for years.

This is why fighting a ticket, even for a seemingly minor offense, can be worth it. The long-term costs in insurance increases and potential license suspension often far exceed the cost of hiring an attorney to handle the case.

How to Avoid License Suspension After Accumulating Points

If you have already accumulated several points, you may still be able to avoid a suspension with the right legal and proactive steps. North Carolina offers a defensive driving course option that can remove up to three points from your driving record once every five years. However, this option may not be available for all violations or if you have already reached the suspension threshold.

In many cases, it’s best to work with a traffic attorney who can challenge the ticket in court. An experienced lawyer can negotiate with prosecutors to have your charge reduced or dismissed, which may prevent any points from being added to your record at all. They can also represent you in DMV hearings if your license is already at risk of suspension.

The traffic violation attorneys at Kastrati Law understand how important your driving privileges are. Whether you drive for work, family, or daily life, losing your license can cause major disruptions. Our firm helps drivers throughout North Carolina fight tickets, reduce penalties, and protect their records from unnecessary damage.

Common Mistakes That Lead to Suspensions

Many North Carolina drivers unintentionally put their licenses at risk without realizing it. Some of the most common mistakes include:

• Ignoring traffic tickets or missing court dates
• Paying a ticket without realizing it counts as a guilty plea
• Failing to complete a required defensive driving course
• Driving while a suspension is already in effect
• Not hiring an attorney for repeat offenses or serious violations

Each of these mistakes can make your situation worse and may lead to additional fines, penalties, or even criminal charges. It’s always better to handle a ticket the right way the first time rather than deal with the consequences later.

Why You Should Consult a Traffic Attorney

While some drivers try to handle traffic tickets on their own, having legal representation can make a major difference. An experienced traffic attorney can identify weaknesses in the state’s case, negotiate with prosecutors, and argue for a reduced or dismissed charge. In many situations, your attorney may even be able to appear in court on your behalf so you don’t have to take time off work.

At Kastrati Law, we represent clients in all types of traffic cases, from speeding tickets and reckless driving to license suspensions and DWIs. We understand how the point system works and how to prevent those points from putting your license in jeopardy. Every case is unique, and we take the time to find the best strategy for your situation.

Protect Your License With Kastrati Law

If you’ve received a ticket or are worried about losing your driver’s license, now is the time to act. Points can add up quickly, and waiting too long can make it harder to protect your record. Our firm is committed to helping North Carolina drivers maintain their driving privileges and avoid costly penalties.

To learn more about how we can help you fight a ticket or prevent a license suspension, contact us today. We’ll review your case, explain your options, and work to keep you safely on the road.