Violating Colorado driving and traffic laws can result in fines, the suspension of your driving privileges, and even imprisonment. The Colorado Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV) uses a point system to track violations and their corresponding penalties. Points are added to your driving record if you receive a traffic ticket for moving violations.

MOVING VIOLATIONS AND POINTS

Different violations are assigned different point values, which are added to your driving record. For instance, moving violations like driving in the wrong lane or in a safety zone, and improper turns each carry three points. Four-point offenses include careless driving and a failure to observe traffic signs. The number of points assessed for different speeding violations are as follows:

Exceeding the maximum speed limit by 5-9 mph:1 point

Exceeding the maximum speed limit by 10-19 mph:4 points

Exceeding the maximum speed limit by 20-39 mph: 6 points

Exceeding the maximum speed limit by 40 mph or more:12 points

View the Point Suspension Brochure to learn about the number of points associated with each type of moving violation.

PENALTIES

You will be subject to specific penalties if you accumulate a certain number of points on your driving license:

1. You will have your license suspended under the following conditions:

   For an adult driver:12 points in any 12 consecutive months or 18 points in any 24 consecutive months.

   For a minor over 18 years:9 points in any 12 consecutive months or

   12 points in any 24 consecutive months or
   14 or more points between the ages of 18-21    

   For drivers 16 to 18 years of age: 6 points in 12 consecutive months or

   7 points prior to turning 18    

   Points remain on your record for seven years.

2. Accumulating points on your driving license is also likely to increase your auto insurance rates. See our auto insurance section for more information about obtaining quality car insurance at competitive rates.

HOW TO CLEAR YOUR DRIVING RECORD

The Colorado MVC maintains a record of all the points added to your driving license. Taking a Defensive Driving Course enables you to deduct points from your current driving record, and may also qualify you for a reduction in your car insurance rates.

HOW TO DISPUTE A MOVING VIOLATION CHARGE

If you believe you have been incorrectly charged with committing a moving violation, you may be able to fight the charge in court. See Traffic Tickets and Traffic Ticket Attorneys for more information.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

• Points are not assessed for parking or other non-moving violations.
• See also Driver's Education and Suspended Licenses.