Alabama Traffic Points System
If you're driving in Alabama, understanding the state's traffic points system is essential. It not only helps you avoid unnecessary penalties but also keeps your driving record clean and your insurance rates from skyrocketing. Here's a full breakdown of how the Alabama traffic points system works and what it means for your driver's license.
What Is the Alabama Traffic Points System?
The Alabama Department of Public Safety uses a points-based system to track traffic violations. Each time you commit a traffic offense, points are added to your driving record. The more severe the violation, the more points you receive. Accumulating too many points within a certain period can lead to license suspension or revocation.
How Are Points Assigned?
Here's a quick look at common violations and the corresponding points:
- Reckless Driving – 6 points (Reckless Driving in Alabama)
- Speeding (26+ mph over limit) – 5 points (Alabama Speeding Laws)
- Passing a School Bus – 5 points (Alabama School Zone Traffic Laws)
- Speeding (15–25 mph over limit) – 4 points
- Failure to Yield Right of Way – 3 points (Failure to Yield Penalties in Alabama)
- Running a Red Light – 3 points (Running a Red Light in Alabama)
- Running a Stop Sign – 3 points (Running a Stop Sign in Alabama)
- Following Too Closely – 3 points (Following Too Closely in Alabama)
- Improper Lane Usage or Illegal Lane Changes – 2 points
- Failure to Signal – 2 points (Failure to Signal in Alabama)
- Speeding (less than 15 mph over limit) – 2 points
License Suspension Thresholds
If you rack up too many points in a short span of time, your driving privileges may be suspended. Here's how that works:
- 12–14 points in 2 years: 60-day suspension
- 15–17 points: 90-day suspension
- 18–20 points: 120-day suspension
- 21–23 points: 180-day suspension
- 24+ points: 365-day suspension
Points stay on your record for two years from the date of the violation.
Impact of Points on Your Record
Even if your license isn't suspended, having points on your record can still lead to:
- Higher car insurance premiums
- Greater scrutiny from law enforcement
- Risk of losing commercial driving privileges (Commercial Vehicle Violations in Alabama)
Offenses That Can Add Points
Some violations go beyond just points—they carry additional legal and financial penalties:
- DUI Offenses: These come with severe consequences, including automatic license suspension. (Alabama DUI Laws & Penalties)
- Driving Without Insurance: Leads to fines, points, and possibly impoundment. (Driving Without Insurance in Alabama)
- Driving Without a License: A serious offense that can lead to arrest and heavy penalties. (Driving Without a License in Alabama)
- Evading Police: Adds points and is considered a criminal offense. (Evading Law Enforcement in Alabama)
- Road Rage or Aggressive Driving: These can escalate into criminal charges. (Alabama Road Rage Laws)
Reducing Points and Improving Your Record
Here are a few ways to keep your record clean:
- Drive defensively and always obey traffic rules.
- Consider taking a defensive driving course—some courts allow point reduction through approved classes.
- Avoid repeat offenses—especially those like Alabama Move Over Law or Open Container Violations.
What to Do If Your License Gets Suspended
If you've hit the points threshold and your license is suspended, here's your game plan:
- Understand the cause – Refer to our guide on Alabama License Suspension
- Reinstate your license after the suspension period and pay applicable fees (Alabama Driver's License Fees)
- Avoid further violations—a second suspension comes quicker if you're already on record
Staying informed about the Alabama Speeding Laws, Wrong-Way Driving Laws, and even Parking Violations can help you avoid trouble altogether.
Driving responsibly doesn't just keep you and others safe—it also protects your driving privileges, your wallet, and your peace of mind. Make it a habit to check up on traffic rules, stay aware of your point status, and always drive smart.