If you have high demerit points, you can take a defensive driving course, work to keep a clean driving record, or simply wait for them to be removed.

Many states use the points system, in which you receive demerit points on your license for certain traffic violations. But having points on your record signals to insurance companies that you’re a higher-risk driver and can negatively impact your

car insurance

rates.

Here, the car owner’s super app

Jerry

is covering what to do if you have

driver’s license points

on your driving record.

What are demerit points?

If you commit a traffic violation, get a ticket, or, in some circumstances, get into an accident, your state DMV could assign points to your driver’s license. These points accumulate on your driving record and indicate to your state and insurance companies whether you have a poor driving record.

Violations that often result in points on your license include:

Speeding

Failing to obey a stop sign or traffic signal

Turning improperly

Following too closely

Passing improperly

Careless driving

Insurance companies use their own point system when setting your premium. They assign point values to moving offenses—the more serious the offense, the more points you receive. Drivers with more points are a high risk for insurers, and thus pay higher premiums.

MORE:

How long do points stay on your record after a speeding ticket?

Do all states use the point system?

No—there are a handful of states that don’t have an official system for assigning demerit points. Instead, they impose penalties for violations on a case-by-case basis. These states are:

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What to do if you have high demerit points

Though demerit points are serious, they aren’t typically permanent marks on your driving record—and you may even be able to remove some of the points you’ve accrued. Here’s how.

Take a defensive driving course

Some states that assign demerit points for traffic tickets or citations offer the opportunity to remove those points if you attend an approved defensive driving course.

The requirements vary by state, but courses are often offered in person and online. Some may take a few hours, while others require a longer commitment. In some cases, like in Washington DC, you may be required to get approval from a DMV Hearing Examiner prior to completing the course.

To determine whether you’re eligible for points reduction with a defensive driving course, contact your local DMV office.

Keep a clean driving record

If you’ve already racked up demerit points on your driving record, it’s imperative that you keep that number from climbing any higher. When you’re on the road, be sure to follow the rules to minimize your chances of another traffic violation.

Drive as little as possible—look at alternate transportation options, such as biking, public transit, or carpooling

Never exceed the speed limit—speeding usually comes with demerit points if you’re caught

Use handsfree devices—most states have laws against distracted driving, so keep the phone away while you’re on the road

Stay sober—a DUI will affect your driving record for up to a decade or more, so never drive while impaired

Wait

Demerit points are usually removed after a set period, the length of which depends on the severity of the violation and the state law. Typically, you can expect points to “fall off” after about two years—though for a more serious infraction, it can take longer.

A severe violation, such as a DUI, typically won't be removed from your record unless there is a plea agreement with that stipulation—for example, if you attend a rehab program. There may also be a probationary period after a first offense that will allow the conviction to be expunged if you do not incur any more violations for a set period of time.

Shop around for insurance

If you have high demerit points, comparison shopping to find the best car insurance is a must.

Insurers consider multiple factors when setting your premium—and some will weigh your driving record and points more heavily than others. Comparing quotes from various companies is the only way to ensure you’re not being wildly overcharged for your coverage.

Jerry

makes shopping around for insurance effortless. It takes less than a minute to sign up and see customizable quotes from more than 50 insurance companies. When you’ve found one you like, Jerry handles all the paperwork and phone calls to finalize it—and even helps cancel your old policy!

MORE: How to get car insurance with a bad driving record

How do driver’s license points affect insurance?

Driver’s license points tell your insurance company that you are a higher-risk driver who is more likely to submit a claim. As a result, your insurance rates will be higher than average.

If you accrue too many points, the state may suspend your license—and this will also raise your insurance rates.

Tickets for moving violations that don’t accrue demerit points will also impact your premiums.

“I have a really bad record, so all of my previous insurance quotes were pretty high. I started using
Jerry
and the fantastic app saved me $130 a month on my insurance.” —Jett A.

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