Ohio License Points: How Many Until You Lose It?

Understanding points on license Ohio requires navigating several interconnected elements. The Ohio Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV) maintains records of driving infractions, and the number of points assigned to these offenses varies. Accumulating excessive points can trigger consequences defined by Ohio Revised Code, including license suspension. Driving safety courses often offer opportunities to remove points, but consulting a legal professional is advisable when facing serious traffic violations related to points on license Ohio.

Image taken from the YouTube channel Online Two Point Driving Classes , from the video titled Impact of Points on Your Driver's License in Ohio .
Understanding Ohio License Points and Suspension Thresholds
Ohio's driver's license point system is designed to track and penalize unsafe driving behavior. Accumulating too many "points on license ohio" can lead to a driver's license suspension. This guide explains how the system works, the point values for various offenses, and what happens when you reach the suspension threshold.
How Ohio's Point System Works
Ohio assigns points to your driving record when you are convicted of certain traffic violations. The number of points you receive depends on the severity of the offense. These points remain on your record for two years from the date of the violation.
Point Accumulation and Consequences
The primary consequence of accumulating points is the potential for license suspension. Here's a breakdown of the key thresholds:
- Zero to Eleven Points: Generally, no direct action is taken by the BMV (Bureau of Motor Vehicles), though your insurance rates may increase.
- Twelve or More Points within a Two-Year Period: This triggers a mandatory driver's license suspension.
Offenses and Point Values
Understanding the point values associated with different traffic violations is crucial for avoiding suspension. Below is a list of common offenses and their corresponding point values:
Offense | Points |
---|---|
Speeding (Over Posted Limit) | |
* 30 mph or more over the speed limit | 4 |
* 1-29 mph over the speed limit | 2 |
Reckless Operation of a Vehicle | 4 |
Operating a Vehicle Under the Influence (OVI) | 6 |
Hit-and-Run (Property Damage Only) | 6 |
Failure to Stop After an Accident | 6 |
Drag Racing | 6 |
Failure to Control | 2 |
Violating a Traffic Control Device | 2 |
Operating with a Temporary Permit in Violation | 2 |
Note: This is not an exhaustive list. For a complete listing of offenses and their point values, refer to the Ohio Revised Code or the Ohio BMV website.
The Suspension Process
Once you accumulate twelve or more points within a two-year period, the BMV will notify you of your impending suspension.
Suspension Length and Reinstatement
The standard suspension period for accumulating twelve or more points is six months.
Reinstatement Requirements
To reinstate your driving privileges after a suspension, you will typically need to fulfill the following requirements:
- Complete the Suspension Period: Serve the entire suspension period as outlined by the BMV.
- Pay a Reinstatement Fee: The fee varies and must be paid to the BMV.
- Provide Proof of Insurance: Demonstrate that you have valid auto insurance.
- Retake the Driving Test (Potentially): The BMV may require you to retake the driving test.
- Take a Remedial Driving Course (Potentially): The BMV may require you to take a remedial driving course.
It is crucial to check with the Ohio BMV directly to confirm the specific reinstatement requirements applicable to your situation, as these requirements can vary. You can do this via their website or by contacting a local BMV office.
Point Reduction Options
Ohio offers a way to reduce the points on your driving record through the completion of a remedial driving course.

Remedial Driving Course
By completing an approved remedial driving course, you can have two points removed from your driving record. This can only be done once every three years.
Eligibility Requirements:
- You must have a valid Ohio driver's license.
- You cannot have taken a remedial driving course within the past three years.
How to Enroll
- Find an Approved Course: The BMV maintains a list of approved remedial driving courses.
- Enroll in the Course: Contact the course provider and enroll in the program.
- Complete the Course: Attend and successfully complete the course.
- Submit Completion Certificate: The course provider will typically submit your completion certificate to the BMV electronically.
Once the BMV receives your completion certificate, two points will be deducted from your driving record. This point reduction does not remove the underlying conviction from your record; it only reduces the point total.
Video: Ohio License Points: How Many Until You Lose It?
Ohio License Points: FAQs
Have questions about the Ohio point system and how it affects your driving privileges? Here are some frequently asked questions to help you understand.
How many points on my Ohio license can I accumulate before suspension?
In Ohio, accumulating 12 points on your license within a two-year period will result in a driver's license suspension. The length of the suspension depends on prior offenses.
What types of traffic violations result in points being added to my license in Ohio?
Many moving violations will add points to your Ohio license. These include speeding, reckless operation, and certain other traffic offenses. More serious violations carry higher point values.
How long do points stay on my driving record in Ohio?
Points generally remain on your Ohio driving record for two years from the date of the violation. After that two-year period, the points are no longer counted towards a suspension.
Can I get points removed from my Ohio license?
Yes, in some cases you can. Attending a remedial driving course approved by the Ohio BMV may allow you to have two points removed from your license. This can be a helpful option if you are nearing the 12-point limit.
So, there you have it! Hopefully, you now have a better understanding of how points on license Ohio work. Drive safely out there!