Speeding and Drivers Under the Age of 18
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Speeding and Drivers Under the Age of 18

Are you a driver under the age of 18 in Georgia? If so, then you already know that driving safely is essential to staying on the right side of state law and keeping your license. Unfortunately, it's not uncommon for new drivers to find themselves facing speeding tickets - but with this comes important caution. A driver under the age of 18 years old who accumulates four points on their driving record within 12 months faces license suspension according to Georgia state law - meaning they will not be able to drive without taking further action. Speeding tickets in Georgia usually come with points added to your driving record. Read on for important info about handling speeding tickets as an under-18 driver in Georgia.

Georgia Laws and Consequences Surrounding Speeding Tickets and Drivers Under the Age of 18

Georgia laws on speeding apply to everyone on the road - whether you are a new driver or have been driving for years. In the state of Georgia, speeding is defined as driving at an unreasonable speed under the existing conditions and above the posted limit. This includes drivers operating with a provisional driver's license (Class D provisional) - which would be most drivers under the age of 18. Speeding tickets in Georgia are considered misdemeanors, and that means your punishment for a conviction is a fine of up to $1,000 and possible time in jail of 12 months - or if not in jail, you could be put on probation.

Speeding tickets also come with points that go on your driving record if you are convicted. The points are assessed as follows:

  • 14 mph over or less = 0 points
  • 15 mph to 18 mph over = 2 points
  • 19 mph to 23 mph over = 3 points
  • 24 mph to 33 mph over = 4 points
  • 34 mph over or more = 6 points

Also, for under 18 drivers, some courts and judges will require you to take a teen driving impact course or other defensive driving type course, so you know the severity of what happens when you don't obey the rules of the road - like people being injured or even dying as a result of the many traffic accidents that happen every year. You could also have to do community service.

Nolo contendere or No Contest pleas do not work for drivers under 18 years of age. If you are over 21, you could utilize such a plea to avoid points on your driving history. However, for drivers under 18, you cannot do so and whatever final speed you end of convicted of in court, you will have to take the points associated with it.

What Happens if You're Under 18 and Get Too Many Points on Your License

Getting too many points on your license is serious business if you are a Georgia driver under the age of 18. If this happens, it will lead to suspension of your license. All points count in the total, including any speeding tickets and other violations issued within a twelve month period. The state of Georgia takes driving safety quite seriously and has implemented strict regulations to ensure everyone stays safe on the roads. If you find yourself in this position, make sure to utilize all available resources so that you can get back behind the wheel as soon as possible.

Anyone under eighteen who accumulates four or more points within twelve months due to speeding or any other traffic violations will find their license suspended until further notice. There is no option for a limited driving permit if you are under the age of 18, and your license will be suspended for at least 6 months. These laws ensure that our young drivers take more caution and emphasize the importance of responsible driving for those still in their formative years.

In order to get your license back after a points-suspension, you will have to complete a Georgia DDS (Department of Driver Services) approved Defensive Driving Course, and pay a $200 reinstatement fee (bumped up to $210 if you pay in-person) - for a first time points suspension. For a second time points suspension, the suspension period jumps from 6 months to 12 months, you still have to take another DDS approved Defensive Driving Course, and your reinstatement fee is up to $300 ($310 if paying in person).

Tips for Keeping Your License after Receiving a Speeding Ticket

If you’re a driver under the age of 18 living in Georgia, it’s important to stay aware of your driving record and the impact that speeding tickets may have on it. In Georgia, four points in 12 months will result in suspension of your license, so if you’ve received a speeding ticket of 2 or 3 points, be sure to remain mindful of this number. Limit trips taken for unnecessary travel and drive responsibly — contest instead of pay a ticket if found guilty, or take advantage of defensive driving courses offered by the state. By following these simple tips and avoiding further violations, you can keep your license safe while still going places here in Georgia.

How a Lawyer Can Help Drivers Under 18

To help teen drivers avoid the consequences of receiving a speeding ticket and the possible suspension of their license, having a lawyer experienced in juvenile traffic law can make all the difference. They are familiar with the complexities of laws surrounding young drivers, and understand that mistakes can happen easily. A lawyer can assist in minimizing or removing points by helping reduce the underlying charge or speed, or by exploring other options to reduce damage done to your driving record. Knowing your legal rights is key, and getting sound advice from an expert may be invaluable when trying to navigate court proceedings or fighting for lower fines. Don’t leave your future at risk - get help from a qualified attorney working in juvenile traffic law.

Drive Safe No Matter Your Age

Speeding tickets can be serious business for those under 18, but the good news is that by taking the proper precautions and stepping up your driving game, you can avoid getting too many points on your license. If you do happen to get pulled over for a speeding ticket, there are options available to help keep your license if you act quickly enough. A lawyer specializing in traffic law can provide valuable advice as to what steps need to be taken. Ultimately, it’s always important to keep in mind the serious consequences of speeding Tickets and Exercise caution while driving, no matter how old you are- After all, safety comes first!