How Many Points Before License Suspended In Florida
Learn how many points before license suspended in Florida with key thresholds, penalties, and steps to protect your driving record.
Attorney Advertisement | Office in Broward
This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Consult a licensed attorney in Florida for guidance specific to your situation.
Table of Contents
Quick Summary
Florida License Suspension Point Limits
Understanding Point System Basics
Checking Your Florida Driving Record
Consequences Of Reaching Suspension Points
Florida Point Thresholds And Examples
Practical Steps To Protect Your License
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Reading
Quick Summary
Points Accumulated | Time Frame | Suspension Length |
|---|---|---|
12 | 12 months | 30 days |
18 | 18 months | 90 days |
24 | 36 months | 1 year |
Under 21: 6 | 12 months | License suspended |
CDL: 12 | 12 months | Federal disqualification |
Florida License Suspension Point Limits
In Florida, the Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (DHSMV) applies demerit points for moving violations. Crossing demerit thresholds leads to license holds:
12 points in 12 months = 30-day suspension
18 points in 18 months = 90-day suspension
24 points in 36 months = 1-year suspension
Drivers under 21 face a suspension at 6 points in 12 months, and CDL holders risk federal disqualification at 12 points in 12 months.
For a detailed breakdown of point values tied to specific violations, see Florida points on license.
Understanding Point System Basics
Florida’s demerit system assigns 2–4 points for moving violations and 0 points for non-moving infractions. Points remain on your record for 3 years from the conviction date unless you complete an approved driver improvement course (once per 12 months) to remove 2 points.
Moving Violations: 2–4 Points
Non-Moving Infractions: 0 Points
Points Expire After 3 Years
DHSMV Traffic School: –2 Points (Once Every 12 Months)
Time Frame | Threshold | Suspension |
|---|---|---|
12 Months | 12 Points | 30-Day Hold |
18 Months | 18 Points | 90-Day Hold |
36 Months | 24 Points | 1-Year Hold |
Under 21 (12 Mo) | 6 Points | Suspension |
Why Points Matter
6 Points → Likely Insurance Premium Increase
12 Points → CDL Suspension Risk
Employer Reviews May Affect Job Prospects
International comparisons show demerit systems can reduce traffic incidents by 21% and fatalities by 10% (in this study).
Checking Your Florida Driving Record
Access your driving record via the DHSMV portal with your license number, birth date, and last four of your SSN:
Go to the DHSMV record request page
Enter details and select certified or standard copy
Pay the fee by credit card and submit
Requesting Certified Records
Cost: $8, delivered in ~7 business days
Official state seal for employers or courts
Review your record regularly: check for dismissed citations, duplicate entries, and correct point totals. Detailed steps are in our guide on viewing your driving record in Florida.
Consequences Of Reaching Suspension Points
Suspension impacts more than your ability to drive:
Insurance premiums can rise 20–50% for 3 years
Annual state assessments may exceed $150
CDL holders risk job loss at 12 points
Higher bail amounts at subsequent traffic stops
Suspensions remain visible for at least 5 years
Suspension | Length (Days) | Typical Collateral Cost |
|---|---|---|
30 | 30 | $175 fee + 30% insurance hike |
90 | 90 | $225 fee + 50% insurance hike |
365 | 365 | $350 fee + 75% insurance hike |
For penalties related to suspended-license driving, see for driving with a suspended license.
Florida Point Thresholds And Examples
Points Accumulated | Time Frame | Suspension Length |
|---|---|---|
12 Points | 12 Months | 30 Days |
18 Points | 18 Months | 90 Days |
24 Points | 36 Months | 1 Year |
Under-21 drivers: 6 points in 12 months
CDL holders: 12 points in 12 months
Approved traffic school: –2 points per year
Example Scenarios
A Miami commuter accumulated 6 points from three 2-point speeding tickets; no suspension but higher premiums.
A commercial driver reached 12 points and faced federal disqualification, impacting contract work. Prospective clients may not obtain the same or similar results.
Practical Steps To Protect Your License
Request an administrative hearing within 30 days of your notice
Enroll in DHSMV-approved traffic school to remove 2 points
Gather evidence: calibration logs, photos, or witness statements
Consider legal counsel early to explore plea options
Our practice focuses on traffic and DUI defense across Florida. We handle criminal traffic matters statewide, and our goal is to protect your license and driving record. Past results do not guarantee future outcomes.
Free Consultation | Submitting information does not create an attorney-client relationship. Confidentiality Notice: Information submitted through our secure form is protected under HIPAA standards.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is The Point Duration On My Record?
Points stay for 3 years from conviction. Traffic school credit erases 2 points once per 12 months. Some convictions (e.g., DUI) may be visible longer. See DHSMV Rule Chapter 15B-2.
How Can I Correct Wrongly Assessed Points?
Request a hearing within 30 days of posting. Submit certified court documents or receipts to challenge discrepancies.
Are There Special Rules For Commercial Drivers?
Under FMCSA rules, 12 points in 12 months on a CDL triggers automatic disqualification. Serious convictions may bring immediate federal suspension.
When Should I Consult An Attorney?
Consider counsel if you’re near 10 points, face a DUI or reckless-driving charge, or encounter complex evidence issues. A licensed attorney can discuss options; this is not legal advice.
Understanding Traffic School Impact
One approved course every 12 months erases 2 points. It can keep you below suspension thresholds but is not a guaranteed fix.
Monitoring My Points Online
Log into DHSMV quarterly with your license number, birth date, and SSN. Early detection helps you avoid surprises.
