HOW VIRGINIA’S POINT SYSTEM WORKS
Virginia’s system runs in both directions. You start at zero, and for each full year with a clean record you earn one safe-driving point, up to a maximum of five; completing a driver-improvement clinic can add five more. Convictions, on the other hand, add demerit points — three for minor violations, four for moderate ones, and six for the most serious, like reckless driving, DUI, or driving on a suspended license. The balance between the two is what defines a good record versus a risky one.
Those points don’t vanish overnight. Most demerit points count against you for two years, but the underlying conviction can stay on your record for up to eleven years for serious offenses — long enough to affect insurance and employment. And if you accumulate too many too quickly, the DMV steps in with advisory letters, required clinics, and ultimately suspension. Knowing where you stand — and acting before a conviction lands — is how you keep control of your record.
VIRGINIA LICENSE POINTS: WHAT TO KNOW
How do demerit points work?
Convictions add 3, 4, or 6 demerit points depending on severity. Six-point offenses include reckless driving, DUI, racing, and passing a stopped school bus. Minor violations like going 1–9 over add three.
How do I earn positive points?
One safe-driving point for each full year with no violations or suspensions, up to five — plus five for voluntarily completing a driver-improvement clinic. Positive points help offset demerits.
When does the DMV suspend my license?
Under DMV rules, accumulating 18 demerit points in 12 months, or 24 in 24 months, results in suspension. Fewer points can still trigger advisory letters or a required driver-improvement clinic.
How long do points stay on my record?
Most demerit points count for two years, but serious convictions can remain on your driving record for three to eleven years, affecting insurance and background checks.
Can I get points removed?
Completing a driver-improvement clinic adds safe-driving points that offset demerits. The most effective step, though, is fighting the underlying charge before it’s ever added — which is where a lawyer helps most.
WHY DRIVERS CHOOSE DECKER
EXPLORE OTHER TRAFFIC & DUI TOPICS
PROTECT YOUR DRIVING RECORD, CONTACT DECKER LAW
Whether you’re staring down a suspension or trying to keep one conviction off your record, the time to act is before it posts. Reach us by text, chat, phone, or email, or call 757-622-3317.