Understanding the Point System in South Carolina

According to the South Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles, the state uses a point system to penalize those who disobey traffic laws and receive a traffic fine. Additionally, each traffic violation is assigned a certain number of license points. Drivers should keep in mind that the number of points added to their driver’s license reflects a cumulative total of the traffic violations they commit in South Carolina and in other states.

Excessive Points and License Suspension

When drivers have six or more points added to their driving record, they will receive a letter from the SCDMV that asks them to drive in a more careful manner. Drivers should remember that if they continue to commit multiple driving violations, not only will points be added to their license, but they also run the risk of losing their driver’s license. When a driver has more than 12 points posted to their driving record, he or she will face the consequences associated with license suspension.  However, some traffic violations are not subject to the point system. For example, when a driver operates a vehicle under the influence of alcohol, his or her driver’s license will be automatically suspended, regardless of how many points are on his or her driving record.

Avoiding Driver’s License Points

Drivers who would like to avoid having points added to their driver’s license can reduce four points from their record upon completion of a defensive driving course. However, drivers only have the option to do this once every three years.  In addition to taking a defensive driving course, drivers can also fight the traffic charges brought up against them in court in order to avoid potential license suspension and having points added to their license. Drivers in this situation can reach out to the attorneys at Nosal & Jeter, LLP for assistance reducing or eliminating the points associated with a traffic citation.