How Long Do Points Stay on Your License in Maryland?

In Maryland, points for traffic violations generally remain “current” for two years from the date of the offense, meaning the Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA) can use them during that period to assess warnings, suspension, or revocation. If no additional violations occur, points may be automatically removed after three years, although the underlying conviction can remain on your driving record. Even after points are no longer current, insurance companies may still review your driving history when setting premiums.

What Gets You Points on Your License?

Maryland has a point system that tracks traffic violations in the state. The Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration administers these points. Traffic offenses can result in points on your driving record if you are convicted of them or if you pay a fine.

While many people might consider traffic violations to be minor offenses, the Maryland Department of Transportation (MDOT) has set some rules for motorists.

Some of the traffic offenses that attract penalties include:

Driving beyond the set speed limit
Driving below the minimum posted speed limit, like on highways
Driving limited speed vehicle on a forbidden highway
Driving a vehicle while intoxicated by drugs and alcohol
Driving fast in bad weather conditions
Driving with a suspended license
Driving without a license
Failing to make way for an emergency vehicle or permit vehicle
Not stopping for a school bus
Failing to obey traffic control device
Ignoring a flashing traffic signal
Reckless and aggressive driving

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MVA Point Assessment Process

The Maryland driver’s license point system is managed by the Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA). After a conviction for a moving violation, the court notifies the MVA, which records the offense and assigns the correct number of points. These points remain “current” for a two-year period, and only those within that timeframe are considered when evaluating penalties.

As totals increase, the MVA may issue a warning letter at four points, require Driver Improvement Program enrollment at five to seven points, or send a suspension notice at eight points. Reaching 12 points can lead to revocation, the most serious consequence.

How Long Do Points Stay on Your Driving Record in Maryland?

It takes two years for the MVA to officially delete the points from your record. This two-year duration dates back to when you committed the traffic offense and not when the MVA added points to your record.

After this time, the points are not considered “current points” and can’t be used to suspend your license.

Hearings and Legal Help

If the MVA issues a suspension notice, you may be able to request a hearing (often within a limited deadline stated on the notice). A Maryland traffic lawyer can help you understand your options, prepare for an administrative hearing, and challenge whether points or procedures were applied correctly.

Contact a Maryland Traffic Defense Attorney Today

If you have received a traffic citation or notice from the MVA regarding points on your license, it is important to understand how those points may affect your driving privileges.

The attorneys at Scrofano Law represent drivers throughout Maryland in traffic and license-related matters. We can review your case, explain how the point system applies to your situation, and discuss available options.

Contact Scrofano Law today to schedule a consultation and learn more about protecting your Maryland driver’s license.

Frequently Asked Questions About Maryland License Points

1. What is the Maryland driver’s license point system?

Maryland’s driver’s license point system is a method the state uses to track certain traffic violations. When a driver is convicted of a qualifying offense, the Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA) may assess points on the driver’s record based on the type and severity of the violation.

2. How long do points stay on your driving record in Maryland?

Points assessed by the MVA do not stay permanently, but they can remain on a driving record for a period of time depending on Maryland’s recordkeeping rules. Even after points are no longer active for enforcement purposes, a violation may still appear on a driver’s record for other administrative or insurance-related reasons.

3. How many points can lead to a suspension or revocation in Maryland?

In Maryland, accumulating a certain number of points can trigger administrative action by the MVA. Higher point totals may result in consequences such as required driver improvement programs, suspension, or revocation, depending on the driver’s record and the total points assessed within the applicable timeframe.

4. What happens if the MVA schedules a hearing about your points?

If the MVA schedules a hearing, the driver may have an opportunity to appear and respond before the agency makes a decision about license restrictions, suspension, or revocation. These hearings typically focus on the driver’s point accumulation and driving history, and the outcome may depend on the specific circumstances and record.

5. Can points affect insurance rates or driving privileges even without a suspension?

Yes, points and traffic convictions may affect more than just license status. Even if a driver is not suspended, points may lead to increased insurance premiums, eligibility issues for certain driving-related privileges, or additional administrative requirements depending on the driver’s history and the nature of the violations.

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