How Does the Illinois DMV Point System Work?

 Posted on January 30, 2020 in Traffic Offenses

Many people have heard of the Illinois DMV point system, but they are not entirely sure of how it works. It is important all drivers are aware of the system, and the penalties they may face for committing certain traffic offenses. While many motorists only consider the fine they may have to pay for a traffic violation, the point system can also levy some other serious consequences.

The Illinois DMV Point System

Any time a driver is convicted of a traffic violation, such as speeding, the Illinois Secretary of State will add points to that person’s license. Typically, serious violations incur a greater number of points than minor traffic offenses. Once a driver has incurred a certain number of points, their driver’s license can then be suspended or revoked. Sometimes an offense, such as a DUI, are so serious that a person may have their license suspended or revoked for that one violation alone.

Number of Points Imposed for Traffic Violations

So, how many points can a driver incur for certain violations? The most common traffic violations, and the number of points associated with them, are as follows:

• Speeding: 5 to 50 points
• Under the minimum speed limit: 5 points
• Screeching tires: 10 points
• Speeding on a bridge or on an elevated roadway: 10 points
• Failure to follow traffic signs: 20 points
• Failure to remain in proper lane: 20 points
• Speeding in a school zone: 20 points
• Under the minimum speed limit on a state tollway: 20 points
• Driving in the ‘fast lane’ when moving slower than traffic: 20 points
• Having an open container of alcohol in the vehicle: 25 points
• Fleeing the scene of an accident that caused property damage: 25 points
• Fleeing the scene of an accident that caused injury or death: 50 points
• Reckless driving: 55 points

It is important to understand that many of these violations, such as leaving the scene of an accident, have many more penalties than just incurring points. Many of these are criminal activities that could cause someone to serve several years in jail if they are convicted.

License Suspensions for Points Imposed

The length of a driver’s suspension will depend on how many points a driver has incurred. According to the Illinois Administrative Code, the length of suspensions for points imposed are:

• Zero to 14 points: No suspension
• 15 to 44 points: Two months
• 45 to 74 points: Three months
• 75 to 89 points: Six months
• 90 to 99 points: Nine months
• 100 to 109 points: Twelve months
• Over 110 points: License revocation

The length of the suspension period is extended when a person has had their license suspended within the last seven years. Typically in these cases, the suspension period is doubled.

An Illinois Criminal Defense Lawyer can Help You Avoid Points

If you have been charged with a traffic offense, there is much more on the line than just a fine. You may incur points, which can eventually lead to a license suspension or revocation. At the Law Offices of Christopher M. Cosley, our skilled Rolling Meadows criminal defense lawyer can help you beat the charges so you can retain your freedom, and keep your license. Call us today at 847-394-3200 to schedule your free consultation.

Sources:

http://www.ilga.gov/commission/jcar/admincode/092/09201040sections.html

http://www.ilga.gov/legislation/ilcs/fulltext.asp?DocName=062500050K11-501