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Demerit Point System in DC

If you are a driver in Washington, DC there is certain information that you should know about the demerit point system and how it can affect your license. If you are facing suspension or revocation, consult with a DC DUI lawyer today to discuss your case and develop a defense.

Every moving violation in the District of Columbia has an associated number of points that are assessed to your driving record if you are found guilty. Even low-level offenses, including a seat belt violation carries points. When a person fails to wear their seat belt while driving, this can result in a three point ticket.

If a judge finds you guilty, three points will be assessed on your license. These demerit points are usually reported to insurers who may increase the cost of your premiums because of the points. Insurance companies consider drivers with more points to be more of a risk to insure.

An offense at the high end of the spectrum may be a DUI or aggravated reckless driving which can cause 12 points to be added to your license. The system works in a way that as you accrue more and more points, you become closer to having your license suspended or revoked. If you amass 10 points within two years, your license may be suspended for a total of 90 days.

Once you hit 12 or more points in a two-year period your license is completely revoked. This means that you will have to go through the entire licensing process again from the beginning. A revocation is not like a suspension where you can just start driving after a couple of months. Also, the points stay on your license for two years.

If a person gets a DUI, 12 points are assessed. If after a person’s license is returned after a year and they drive and receive an offense of more than 12 points within the two year period, the person’s license will be revoked again. This will continue to happen until they get below 12 points each time they receive another moving violation.

Implications of Having Points on Your Record

When a person hits 12 points, their license will be revoked. Prior to a revocation, a person may have their license suspended or they may receive a warning from the DMV that they need to stop accruing points. In addition, as the number of points increase, your car insurance premium will increase. The ability to drive and the cost of your insurance premium are what will change as you accrue more points.

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