Like many other states, Georgia operates a “points system” when it comes to driver licensing. The general concept is straightforward: Accumulate too many points within a given period of time, and you risk losing your driving privileges. But how exactly does this system work in Georgia? When could you lose your license, and what happens if you accumulate too many points?
Your License Could Be Suspended
According to the Georgia Department of Driver Services, your license will be suspended if you accumulate 15 points within a two-year period. How easy is it to accumulate this many points over 24 months? It depends on how often you drive and receive traffic tickets. It also depends on the types of tickets involved, as some carry more points than others. Some traffic violations carry no points at all.
For reference, you would need to get caught texting and driving 15 times in two years to lose your driving license since each of these violations is worth one point. You might also “fail to obey a traffic-control device” five times since this violation is worth three points. If you have a habit of speeding, you could potentially reach the 15-point threshold with just three or four violations, assuming that you drastically exceeded the posted speed limit on some of these offenses. The most serious violations are worth 6 points each, and they include aggressive driving and unlawfully passing a school bus.
What if I am Close to Having Too Many Points on My License?
If you are close to having too many points on your license, you might want to take legal action before you cross the 15-point threshold. For example, you might be just three points away from losing your license.
One option is to take a certified driver improvement course, which reduces your total points by up to seven points. This is also known as a “defensive driving course.” However, you can only take one of these courses every five years. Once you remove points from your license in this manner, you cannot use this strategy again for the foreseeable future.
Perhaps a more effective option is to fight your last ticket with help from an attorney. If you recently received a traffic ticket and you are close to the 15-point limit, consider speaking with a lawyer. It may be possible to have your ticket dismissed – and the points will not be applied to your license if you are successful.
Can a Traffic Ticket Lawyer in Georgia Help if I Have Too Many Points?
If you are concerned about accumulating too many points on your license, a traffic ticket lawyer in Georgia may be able to help. With help from one of these legal professionals, you may be able to fight your most recent traffic ticket. This could prevent you from getting too many points on your license, and it may allow you to continue driving. That being said, the most appropriate strategy depends entirely on your unique circumstances – so discuss your specific situation with Lankford & Moore Law today.
