Driving is a privilege, not a right. With this privilege comes responsibility, and the state of Georgia takes road safety seriously. Every driver in Georgia is subject to a points system, which keeps track of traffic violations. If you rack up too many points, you risk having your license suspended.
But how many points does it actually take to lose your license in Georgia? The answer depends on your age, the nature of your violation, and how often you commit infractions. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll break down the Georgia point system, explain license suspension rules by age group, and provide tips on how to protect your driving record.
Can a Driver’s License Be Suspended in Georgia?
Yes — Georgia law allows a driver’s license to be suspended or revoked under certain conditions. Suspensions can be temporary or long-term, depending on the offense. Here are some of the most common reasons for suspension:
- Driving Under the Influence (DUI)
A DUI is one of the fastest ways to get your license suspended. Georgia has a zero-tolerance law for drivers under 21 and strict blood alcohol content (BAC) limits for adults. - Reckless or Aggressive Driving
Endangering other drivers by weaving through traffic, tailgating, or road rage incidents can lead to penalties and license suspension. - Failure to Pay Fines or Court Judgments
Ignoring tickets, unpaid child support, or other legal obligations can trigger a suspension. - Too Many Demerit Points
Every traffic violation adds points to your record. If you cross the threshold for your age group, your license can be suspended.
Suspensions act as a deterrent to unsafe driving and encourage drivers to obey traffic laws for the safety of everyone on the road.
What Are Demerit Points?
Think of demerit points as strikes against your driving record. Each time you commit a traffic violation, the Georgia Department of Driver Services (DDS) assigns a set number of points based on the severity of the offense.
Here’s how the Georgia point system works:
- 1 to 2 points – Minor offenses like not wearing a seatbelt.
- 3 to 4 points – Mid-level violations like running a red light or reckless driving.
- 6 points – Serious offenses, such as aggressive driving or unlawful passing of a school bus.
The more points you accumulate, the closer you get to license suspension.
Georgia License Suspension by Age Group
Georgia’s license suspension rules vary depending on the age of the driver. Let’s break it down:
🚗 Drivers Under 18
Young drivers are under strict scrutiny since they are new to driving.
- License suspended if you earn 4 or more points in 12 months.
- Example: Two speeding tickets (worth 2 points each) in a year could take your license away.
🚙 Drivers Between 18 and 20
This age group gets a little more leeway, but the rules are still strict.
- License suspended if you earn 15 or more points in 24 months.
- Automatic suspension if you commit a single violation worth 4+ points.
- Example: A reckless driving charge (4 points) will immediately trigger a suspension.
🚘 Drivers Aged 21 and Older
For adult drivers, the rules mirror those of 18-20-year-olds (minus the single-offense rule).
- License suspended if you earn 15 or more points in 24 months.
- Example: Multiple speeding tickets, reckless driving, or failure to yield can quickly add up.
Georgia Traffic Violations and Point Values
To better understand how points add up, here’s a breakdown of common Georgia traffic offenses and their point values:
- 1 Point – Operating with defective equipment, improper use of a seatbelt.
- 2 Points – Failure to obey traffic-control devices, speeding 15-18 mph over the limit.
- 3 Points – Improper passing, failure to yield, speeding 19-23 mph over the limit.
- 4 Points – Reckless driving, improper passing on a hill, speeding 24-33 mph over.
- 6 Points – Aggressive driving, unlawful passing of a school bus, speeding 34+ mph over.
👉 Note: Commercial drivers (CDL holders) may face stricter penalties and federal consequences.
What Happens When You Reach the Limit?
Once you hit the suspension threshold for your age group, here’s what typically happens:
- Notice of Suspension – You’ll receive a notice from the Georgia DDS informing you of your suspension.
- Period of Suspension – The length varies depending on your age and severity of the violation (commonly 6-12 months).
- Mandatory Defensive Driving Course – To reinstate your license, you’ll often need to complete a certified driving improvement course.
- Reinstatement Fee – Drivers must pay a reinstatement fee, ranging from $200-$210, to get their license back.
Can You Reduce Points on Your License in Georgia?
Yes! Georgia allows drivers to reduce their points by taking approved courses.
- You can request a points reduction once every 5 years.
- Completion of a DDS-approved Defensive Driving or Driver Improvement course can knock up to 7 points off your record.
This option is especially helpful if you are nearing the suspension threshold.
Difference Between Suspension and Revocation
It’s important to know the difference:
- Suspension – Temporary withdrawal of your driving privileges. After the suspension period, you can reinstate your license.
- Revocation – Permanent termination of your license. You’ll need to reapply for a brand-new license if eligible.
Most traffic offenses result in suspension, but repeated serious offenses like multiple DUIs may lead to revocation.
How to Check Your Points in Georgia
To avoid surprises, you should regularly check your driving record. Here’s how:
- Visit the Georgia DDS website.
- Log into your account or create one.
- Order a Certified Driving Record (MVR) online.
- Review your current points, violations, and license status.
Keeping track of your record helps you stay proactive in managing points.
Tips to Avoid License Suspension in Georgia
- Drive the speed limit – Speeding is the most common reason for points.
- Don’t use your phone while driving – Texting and driving can lead to citations.
- Pay fines on time – Ignoring tickets can cause suspension.
- Take defensive driving courses – Not just for point reduction, but also to improve your skills.
- Be cautious near schools – Passing a school bus illegally is one of the highest-point offenses.
Why Georgia Takes the Point System Seriously
Georgia’s point system isn’t about punishing drivers — it’s about keeping roads safe. By tracking and penalizing repeat offenders, the state encourages drivers to adopt safer habits. Suspensions are meant to protect the public and reduce the chances of serious accidents.
FAQs About Georgia License Suspension
1. How many points does it take to suspend a license in Georgia for drivers under 18?
Just 4 points in 12 months.
2. Can one violation suspend my license if I’m under 21?
Yes. Any violation worth 4 points or more will trigger suspension.
3. How long is a typical suspension?
Usually 6-12 months, depending on the offense.
4. Can I drive during suspension?
No. Driving with a suspended license can lead to jail time, fines, and extended suspension.
5. Can I fight a suspension in court?
Yes. You can request a hearing with the Office of State Administrative Hearings (OSAH) within 30 days of receiving notice.
Final Thoughts
The Georgia points system is straightforward: too many points equals suspension. For younger drivers, the threshold is much lower, while adult drivers face suspension at 15 points within 24 months. But remember, even a single violation can trigger suspension if you’re under 21.
By keeping your record clean, driving responsibly, and taking advantage of defensive driving courses, you can avoid license suspension altogether. At the end of the day, safe driving isn’t just about protecting your license — it’s about protecting lives.