Does Georgia Have a Point System?

Are you wondering, “Does Georgia have a point system?” The answer is yes.

If you’re a driver in Georgia, it’s crucial to understand the state’s point system and how it impacts your driving privileges.

In this blog post, we’ll delve into the specifics of the Georgia point system, explaining its implications and how it works.

How Does the Georgia Point System Work?

The Georgia Department of Driver Services (DDS) uses a point system to track drivers who have committed traffic violations.

This system ranges from 2 to 6 points, depending on the severity of the violation.

When you’re convicted of a traffic violation, points are added to your driving record.

If you get more than one traffic ticket when pulled over, and you’re later convicted of each one, you’ll get points for each separate ticket – unless the charges ‘merge’ with each other.

Always make sure to do your research and see what the points consequences are before pleading guilty to any traffic tickets in Georgia.

Consequences of Accumulating Points

Accumulation of points can quickly lead to license suspension.

For instance, if you accumulate 15 or more points within 24 months, your license can be suspended.

It’s also important to note that drivers under the age of 21 face license suspension for any violation that carries 4 or more points.

And drivers under the age of 18 will face automatic suspension if they gain 4 total points in a 12 month period.

Reducing Points on Your License

Fortunately, there are ways to reduce points on your Georgia driver’s license.

Up to 7 points can be reduced from your record once every five years if you take a defensive driving course approved by the DDS.

Always check with Georgia DDS for the most current regulations regarding point reduction.

Also, if you are 21 years old or older, you have the option to plead ‘nolo contendere’ or ‘no contest’ to a moving violation once every 5 years. The benefit of a nolo plea is that your points will be canceled out for that violation.

However, if you are under 21, you cannot plead nolo. So make sure you consult with a local traffic attorney prior to resolving your traffic case.

Checking Points on Your License

It’s important to know how many points you have on your license.

To check for points on your license in Georgia, you can create an online account on the DDS website.

This will allow you to view your driving history, including the points on your license.

For license suspension purposes, the look-back period on points accumulation is 24 months.

But for use of a nolo plea, the look-back period is 5 years.

And for other charges, like DUI, the look-back period for subsequent punishment on the same charge is up to 10 years.

Stay informed – know your points and nolo situation.

Understanding Insurance Requirements

In addition to understanding the point system, drivers in Georgia should also be aware of insurance requirements.

The state mandates that drivers carry at least $25,000 of bodily injury liability insurance per person, with a total of $50,000 per accident.

If you do not carry these minimums, you could face a traffic ticket and even go to jail, if you are later pulled over or involved in a car accident.

The Bottom Line

Georgia does have a point system, and it’s vital for all drivers to understand how this system works.

By keeping track of your points and taking steps to reduce them when necessary, you can preserve your driving privileges and avoid potential legal complications.

Stay safe on the roads, and always be aware of the impact of your driving habits on your point accumulation.