How Driver Points Work in Kentucky

Kentucky uses a point system. Drivers start with zero points. A driver age 18 or older who reaches 12 or more points within two years faces suspension or probation (a warning letter is sent at 6 points); for drivers under 18 the threshold is 7 points (warning letter at 4 points). Drivers are offered a hearing first. Suspension for a points accumulation is 90 days to 6 months the first time, 1 year the second time, and 2 years for later accumulations within two years; probation, if granted, lasts twice the suspension period.

Speeding 15 mph or less over the limit is 3 points, and 16 to 25 mph over is 6 points. Speeding 26 mph or more over the limit is treated as a serious violation that can lead to a 90-day suspension or probation after a hearing. The Cabinet's point chart also lists 0 points for 10 mph or less over on a limited-access highway and 3 points for 11–15 mph over on a limited-access highway. Out-of-state speeding convictions are not assigned points.

Points expire two years from the date of conviction (not the citation date). The conviction itself stays on the driving record for five years from the conviction date.

Completing Kentucky State Traffic School prevents points from being assessed, but the conviction still appears on the record (it does not show on the 3-year public record but does show on the 5-year record used by law enforcement, courts and other agencies). A driver may attend only once every 12 months, cannot have been under suspension at the time of the citation, and cannot use it for a conviction carrying a mandatory suspension. Unlicensed and out-of-state drivers are not eligible unless a court orders it. CDL holders' moving convictions still appear on the record. The online course costs $39 and the classroom course $15, completed or enrolled within 30 days of the referral or conviction date.