DMV Point System in Michigan

If you're convicted of a traffic violation in Michigan, you'll have more than a fine to contend with. On top of paying the fee, you'll have points added to your MI driving record, which could affect your license status, among other issues.

Read below to find out more about how MI keeps track of your driving record points and their effects.

Michigan Point System Basics

Like they say in fashion: Less is more. When it comes to the number of points on your driving record, the same philosophy holds.

The Michigan Secretary of State office (SOS) has several categories of violation types, based on the severity of the offense. Each category carries a certain number of points.

Points & Consequences

You'll face consequences after hitting a certain number of points within 2 years, including:

  • 4 points or more:
    • A warning letter from the Michigan Secretary of State office (SOS).
  • 8 points or more:
    • An additional warning letter from the SOS.
  • 12 points or more:
    • A request to come in for a driver reexamination, which can entail any or all of the following:
      • Vision test.
      • Knowledge test.
      • On-road test.
      • Request for vision or medical records.

You may also have your license suspended as a result of a reexamination.

Accumulating Points

Points will be officially added to your MI driving record each time you:

All points you receive from MI moving violations will stay on your driving record for 2 years after your conviction. The state will also include points acquired from snowmobile and off-road vehicle violations on your official driving record.

*NOTE: Some especially serious violations, like driving under the influence (DUI), can carry greater consequences, like jail time. If you're facing a serious infraction, consider hiring a Michigan traffic attorney.

Higher Points, Higher Rates

Your auto insurance rate is on the line! Points on your MI driving record could affect more than the status of your license.

Use our guide to points and car insurance to find out more about how to protect your current rate.

MI Point System Schedule

You'll receive a certain number of points on your Michigan driving record each time you're convicted of or plead guilty to a driving violation. The number of points depend on the severity of the violation.

For more information on how the number of points you receive will specifically affect you, contact your local MI SOS office.

*NOTE: Commercial motor vehicle drivers may face additional punishments for receiving these citations.

6-Point Violations

Typically, citations adding 6 points to your driving record in Michigan are reserved for the most severe violations, including (but not limited to):

  • Manslaughter.
  • Operating a vehicle under the influence.
    • Applies to both alcohol and drugs.
  • Reckless driving.
  • Refusal to take a chemical test.
  • Fleeing or eluding a police officer.

4-Point Violations

In Michigan, violations worth 4 points are slightly less severe. They're included on traffic tickets you receive for:

  • Drag racing.
  • Operating a vehicle while visibly impaired.
  • Driving with any bodily alcohol contact while under 21 years old.
  • Driving 16 MPH or faster over the limit.
  • Failure to yield for an emergency vehicle.

3-Point Violations

Moving violations that are worth 3 points are typically more common and less severe. They include (but are not limited to):

  • Driving 11 through 15 MPH over the posted speed limit.
  • Careless driving.
  • Disobeying a traffic signal.
  • Improper passing.
  • Failure to stop at a railroad crossing.
  • Failure to stop for a school bus.

2-Point Violations

The Michigan Secretary of State office assigns 2 points to the most common types of violations, including:

  • All other moving violations of traffic laws.
  • Having an open alcohol container in the vehicle.
  • Refusing a preliminary breath test if you're under 21 years old.
On the (Driving) Record

Make sure you're not blindsided! Always know exactly how many points you've accumulated by ordering your Michigan driving record for review.

Reducing Driving Record Points

You may be able to chip away at your point total by completing a Michigan Basic Driver Improvement Course (BDIC).

The classes are state-approved, though not run through the state. Prices and coursework may vary.

Contact the Michigan SOS to ask about whether taking a course could help reduce the points on your license.

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