As a licensed driver in Georgia, understanding your license points is crucial for maintaining your driving privileges. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to check your GA license points and what it means for your driving record.
Georgia uses a point system to track driving violations. Every time you commit a moving violation, points are added to your driving record. The number of points varies depending on the severity of the offense. For instance, a speeding ticket might add 2-6 points, while a DUI conviction could result in 12 points.
To check your license points, you have a few options:
Online Inquiry: The Georgia Department of Driver Services (DDS) offers an online point inquiry service. You can access this service through their official website. Here’s how: - Step 1: Visit the DDS website and navigate to the ‘Driver Services’ section. - Step 2: Look for the ‘Point Inquiry’ option and click on it. - Step 3: You’ll need to provide your driver’s license number and some personal details to verify your identity. - Step 4: Once verified, you’ll be able to view your current point total and the violations associated with those points.
Telephone Inquiry: If you prefer a more direct approach, you can call the DDS Customer Service Center. Their toll-free number is 1-866-754-3687. When you call, have your driver’s license number ready, and be prepared to answer some security questions to verify your identity.
In-Person Visit: For those who prefer a more traditional method, you can visit your local DDS Customer Service Center. Bring your driver’s license and a valid photo ID. The staff there can pull up your record and provide you with the necessary information.
Hire a Professional: In some cases, especially if you’re facing potential license suspension or revocation, it might be wise to hire a professional driver’s license restoration attorney. They can not only help you understand your current point status but also guide you on how to manage and reduce your points.
Understanding the Impact of License Points
License points aren’t just a number; they have real-world consequences. Here’s a breakdown:
- License Suspension: If you accumulate 15 points in a 24-month period, your license will be suspended. The duration of the suspension depends on the number of points. For 15-23 points, it’s 60 days; for 24 or more points, it’s 90 days.
- Increased Insurance Rates: Insurance companies often check your driving record. A poor driving record with multiple points can lead to higher insurance premiums or even policy cancellations.
- Job Opportunities: Some employers, especially those in transportation-related fields, may review your driving record during the hiring process. A high point total could impact your employment prospects.
- Legal Consequences: For serious offenses, like DUI or reckless driving, you might face additional legal penalties beyond the points added to your record.
Managing and Reducing License Points
While it’s important to know your point status, it’s equally crucial to know how to manage and reduce those points. Here are some strategies:
- Obey Traffic Laws: The most effective way to reduce your points is to drive safely and obey all traffic laws. Avoid speeding, don’t use your phone while driving, and always wear your seatbelt.
- Defensive Driving Course: Completing a defensive driving course can often result in a point reduction. Check with the DDS to see if you’re eligible for this option.
- Appeal Tickets: If you believe a ticket was issued in error, you can fight it in court. If you win the appeal, the points associated with that ticket will be removed from your record.
- Time: In Georgia, points stay on your record for 24 months. After that, they expire. So, if you maintain a clean driving record for two years, your points will gradually disappear.
Resources for Further Assistance
If you have further questions or need more detailed information, the Georgia Department of Driver Services is an excellent resource. They provide a wealth of information on their website, including a comprehensive FAQ section. Additionally, you can reach out to their Customer Service Center for personalized assistance.
Remember, staying informed about your driving record and license points is an essential part of being a responsible driver. It’s always better to address issues early to avoid more significant problems down the road.
