How Driver Points Work in California

Yes, through the Negligent Operator Treatment System (NOTS). Most traffic convictions involving safe driving count 1 point, and serious ones (such as DUI, reckless driving and hit-and-run) count 2; a responsible collision counts 1 point. A Class C driver is presumed a negligent operator at 4 or more points in 12 months, 6 or more in 24 months, or 8 or more in 36 months. NOTS actions run from a warning letter, to a notice of intent to suspend, to an order of one-year probation that includes a six-month suspension. Points from out-of-state convictions count too. Commercial (Class A/B) drivers have higher thresholds in some cases.

A typical speeding conviction is 1 point (for example, Vehicle Code § 22348(a)). Driving over 100 mph (§ 22348(b)) is 2 points. Convictions in a vehicle requiring a Class A or B license count 1½ times the usual value.

Negligent-operator status is measured over 12-, 24- and 36-month periods. The DMV handbook states all DUI convictions remain on the driver record for 10 years.

A court may order or permit a noncommercial Class C or M driver to attend a licensed traffic violator school after paying the fee or bail or pleading guilty or no contest. When the driver finishes by the deadline, the point stays on the record but is hidden from insurance companies, and the conviction does not count toward negligent-operator status. Traffic school is not allowed for violations in a commercial vehicle, DUI, hit-and-run, reckless driving, and certain other serious offenses. The court's courtesy notice says whether a ticket is eligible; a driver can still ask for traffic school after choosing a trial, and the judge decides.