What Does Point Accumulation Mean for Maryland Drivers?
The Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA) maintains a point system to track driving infractions and promote road safety. When drivers receive citations for traffic violations, points are added to their driving record. These points serve as indicators of driving behavior and can lead to serious consequences when they accumulate within a specified timeframe.
The Warning Stage: Three Points
The MVA takes a proactive approach to driver safety by sending warning letters to individuals who accumulate three points within a two-year period. This early notification system allows drivers to recognize potentially problematic driving behaviors before more severe consequences occur.
Driver Improvement Programs: Five Points
When a driver accumulates five points within a two-year period, the MVA requires attendance at a driver improvement program. This requirement reflects the administration’s commitment to education and rehabilitation rather than purely punitive measures. However, professional drivers who hold Class A, B, or C licenses may receive special consideration. These individuals can submit evidence of their professional driving status to the MVA and may not be required to attend the program until reaching eight points.
License Suspension: Eight Points
The accumulation of eight points within a two-year period triggers a license suspension. The MVA issues a formal notice of suspension, which must be delivered either through personal service or certified mail from the United States Postal Service. The initial suspension period ranges from two to thirty days, while subsequent suspensions can last between fifteen and ninety days.
License Revocation: Twelve Points
The most severe consequence occurs when a driver accumulates twelve points within a two-year period. At this level, the MVA will revoke the individual’s driving privileges. Like suspension notices, revocation notices must be formally served and include specific information about the duration and the driver’s right to request a hearing.
Special Considerations for Young Drivers
The MVA implements stricter standards for provisional license holders under the age of eighteen. These young drivers face suspension if they accumulate five or more points in a twelve-month period. The first offense results in a six-month suspension, while second and subsequent offenses lead to a one-year suspension.
Protecting Your Driving Privileges
If you have received a “must appear” traffic citation in Maryland, the consequences could significantly impact your driving privileges and daily life. The point system can quickly escalate from warnings to suspensions, affecting your ability to work and maintain your regular activities. Stephen P. Shepard of Shepard Law brings more than a decade of criminal defense experience to help protect your driving privileges. Located in Towson, Maryland, our award-winning law firm understands the complexities of traffic law and can help navigate the MVA point system. Contact Shepard Law today to discuss your traffic citation and learn how we can help preserve your driving privileges.
