How the Missouri Point System Works
Every time you are convicted of a moving traffic violation in Missouri, points are added to your driving record. Accumulate too many, and your license is suspended. Understanding how the point system works is essential to protecting your driving privileges.
How Points Are Assigned
The Missouri Department of Revenue assigns points based on the severity of the violation. Common point values include:
Violation:
Speeding 6–10 mph over the limit : 2
Speeding 11–19 mph over: 2
Speeding 20–25 mph over: 4
Speeding 26+ mph over: 6
Failure to yield right-of-way; 2
Running a red light / stop sign: 2
Careless and imprudent driving; 2
Following too closely: 2
Leaving the scene of an accident: 6–12
When Your License Gets Suspended
Missouri suspends your license based on point accumulation within specific timeframes:
• 8 or more points in 18 months: 30-day suspension (first offense), 60 days (second), 90 days (third)
• After suspension, you must pay a reinstatement fee and may need to show proof of SR-22 insurance
• A fourth or subsequent suspension within a period results in a one-year revocation
How Points Reduce Over Time
Points on your Missouri record reduce automatically over time if you drive cleanly. Your point total is reduced by one-third after one year without a new conviction, by one-half after two years, and reset to zero after three years of clean driving. However, the conviction itself remains on your record even after points are reduced.
How to Keep Points Off Your Record
The most effective way to avoid points is to hire an attorney to negotiate your traffic ticket down to a non-moving violation before the court enters a conviction. Non-moving violations carry zero points. In most Missouri jurisdictions, this is a routine negotiation that an experienced traffic attorney handles regularly.
Protect your license. Call Lee Law Firm at (314) 708-1720 before your court date.