DMV Point System in Kentucky
Driving isn't a game—and the points you collect on your license don't mean you're winning. In fact, they could cause you to lose out on a lot.
Keep reading to find out more about how Kentucky's Division of Driver Licensing (DDL) point system works, and how it could affect your driving privileges.
Kentucky Point System Basics
When you're issued a traffic ticket in Kentucky, you're not just getting fined. A certain number of points come attached to each citation, with the specific amount of points depending on the severity of the violation.
If you pay your traffic ticket or are convicted of the offense in court, those points are added to your driving record. Points count against you in Kentucky for 2 years after the date of conviction or payment.
The Kentucky Transportation Cabinet will schedule a required hearing once you've reached a certain number of points, based on your age:
- 18 years old and up: 12 points or more.
- Younger than 18 years old: 7 points or more.
When you appear at this hearing, the department may give you probation instead of a license suspension, depending on your specific circumstances and driving history. This may consist of attending a driver improvement course. Once you've utilized probation, you are NOT eligible again for 2 years after the ending date.
If you miss your hearing, the KYTC will automatically suspend your license based on how many times you've reached your points threshold:
- 1st time reaching 12 points: 6 months.
- 2nd time reaching 12 points: 1 year.
- Any subsequent times reaching 12 points: 2 years.
Aside from losing your right to drive, you could see serious damage to your auto insurance rate if you rack up too many points.
NOTE: Kentucky CDL drivers may face additional penalties.
How high is your auto insurance rate? If you accrue too many points on your KY driving record, it could get even higher.
Find out more on why your insurance rate is so high and tips on how to keep it as low as possible.
KY Point System Schedule
The number of points your KY traffic ticket is worth correlates to the severity of the violation in question. Some common citations include:
- Failure to yield: 3 points.
- Driving:
- The wrong way down a one-way street: 3 points.
- Too fast for conditions: 3 points.
- Too closely behind another vehicle: 4 points.
- 16 to 25 MPH over the posted speed limit: 6 points.
- Reckless driving: 4 points.
- Passing someone improperly: 5 points.
Check out the Kentucky DDL's full list of examples.
Reducing Driving Record Points
Nervous about the number of points you've racked up? Don't worry, there's a class for that.
If you successfully complete a KY defensive driving course, you could have the points from your ticket dismissed.
You can attend traffic school in KY once every 12 months.
Check out the Kentucky DOT's information on specific classes and enrollment.
Otherwise, from the date of your conviction or traffic ticket payment, point totals will:
- Actively count against you for 2 years.
- Remain on your driving record for 5 years.
They say knowing is half the battle. Make sure you're as prepared as possible by knowing how many points you have when you order your KY driving record.
Of course, the best way to avoid points on your driving record is to always drive safely and defensively. For tips and tricks, visit our guides to Kentucky safety laws and distracted driving prevention.