PennDOT License Suspension System
PennDOT License Suspension System
Most people are aware of the PennDOT license suspension system, but few know the procedures behind PennDOT or how it works. The PennDOT license suspension points system in Pennsylvania assigns points to a driver's record for various traffic violations. The accumulation of points can lead to license suspension. Points are assigned based on the severity of the offense, with common violations including failure to stop for a red light (3 points), improper passing (3 points), and following too closely (3 points).
When any driving record reaches 6 or more points for the first time, the driver will receive a written notice to take a special written point examination. The test requires the driver to show that they understand safe driving practices, and related safety issues. The driver then has 30 days to pass the exam or else the license will be suspended.
When a driver accumulates six points for the second or subsequent time, they must attend a departmental hearing and a driver improvement school. The hearing examiner may recommend a license suspension of up to 15 days for a second accumulation of six points, or up to 30 days for a third or subsequent accumulation. If a driver accumulates 11 points or more, their license will be suspended. The duration of the suspension increases with each subsequent suspension, starting at five days per point for the first suspension and up to one year for any suspension beyond the third.
Certain offenses result in automatic license suspensions regardless of the points system. For example, a one-year suspension is mandated for convictions involving aggravated assault by vehicle while driving under the influence, accidents involving death or personal injury, and dealing in titles and plates for stolen vehicles. Additionally, a three-year suspension is imposed for convictions of homicide by vehicle or homicide by vehicle while driving under the influence. Reckless driving carries a six month suspension, and certain offenses of driving a vehicle while already suspended (pursuant to a DUI or ARD matter) may tack on additional time to your license suspension.
Upon restoration of a suspended or revoked license, the driver's record will show five points, plus any additional points accumulated since the last violation that led to the suspension or revocation. Finally, three (3) points are removed from a driving record for every 12 consecutive months a person drives (from the date of the last violation or date of restoration, whichever is more recent) without a violation which results in points, license suspension or revocation.
