If you’ve recently received a traffic citation in North Carolina, you may have come across terms like “DMV points” and “insurance points.” While both can arise from the same traffic violation, they serve very different purposes and have distinct impacts on your driving record and wallet. Here’s a breakdown of what these points mean and how they affect you.
DMV Points: What Are They?
DMV points, also known as driver license points, are assigned by the North Carolina Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV) to monitor your driving behavior. Points are added to your driving record when you are convicted of certain traffic violations. The more serious the violation, the more points you receive. For example:
Speeding over 55 mph: 3 points
Running a red light: 3 points
Reckless driving: 4 points
Passing a stopped school bus: 5 points
If you accumulate 12 or more points within a three-year period, the DMV may suspend your driver’s license. After a suspension, accumulating 8 or more points within three years can result in another suspension.
Clearing DMV Points:
Points will naturally fall off of your driving after three years from the date of conviction of each charge.
Insurance Points: What Are They?
Insurance points, on the other hand, are part of North Carolina’s Safe Driver Incentive Plan (SDIP). These points are assigned by your auto insurance company and directly affect your insurance premiums. The more insurance points you accumulate, the higher your rates will go. Here’s a quick look at how insurance points translate to premium increases:
- 1 point: 30% increase
- 2 points: 45% increase
- 3 points: 60% increase
- 4 points: 80% increase
- 12 points: 340% increase
Common violations that result in insurance points include:
- Speeding 10-25 mph over the limit in a zone under 55 mph: 2 points
- At-fault accident causing over $3,000 in damage: 2 points
- Driving while impaired (DWI): 12 points
How Long Do Insurance Points Last?
Insurance points typically remain on your record for three years, and during this time, they will continue to affect your premiums. DWI remains on for five years.
Key Differences Between DMV Points and Insurance Points:
| Aspect | DMV Points | Insurance Points |
| Assigned By | NC DMV | Auto insurance companies |
| Purpose | Track driving behavior and penalize repeat offenders | Calculate insurance premium increases |
| Impact | Risk of license suspension | Higher auto insurance rates |
| Duration | Points accumulate over 3 years | Points last 3 years for insurance rates |
| Reduction Options | Speak with a lawyer | Clean driving record over time |
What Should You Do If You Receive a Traffic Violation?
If you’ve received a citation, it’s crucial to consider the potential impact on both your DMV record and insurance premiums. Here are some steps you can take:
- Call your favorite attorney, Keith Metz: I help you negotiate reduced charges or get your ticket dismissed, which could save you from accumulating points altogether.
- Understand Your Insurance Policy: Talk to your insurance provider to understand how a violation might affect your premiums.
Final Thoughts
While DMV points and insurance points may seem like two sides of the same coin, their consequences are distinct. Being mindful of both systems can help you maintain your driving privileges and keep your insurance costs manageable. The best strategy, of course, is to drive safely and avoid violations altogether. But if you do find yourself facing a traffic ticket, knowing the difference between DMV points and insurance points can help you make informed decisions.
If you are looking for an experienced traffic attorney to help save you from points, contact Keith Metz at 980-320-0519 or email keith@keithmetzlaw.com