Violating Idaho driving and traffic laws can result in fines, the suspension of your driving privileges, and even imprisonment. The Idaho 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 starting parked vehicles, driving through safety zone that is prohibited, passing vehicles which are proceeding in opposite direction, carry two points each. Four-point offences include overtaking and passing a school bus, racing on public highways and not paying duty upon striking an unattended vehicle. The number of points assessed for different speeding violations are as follows:

Exceeding the maximum speed limit by 1-15 mph:3 points

Exceeding the maximum speed limit by 16 mph or more: 4 points

View the complete Point Schedule 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 for 30 days if you accumulate 12 to 17 points in 12 months time, a 90 day suspension for 18 to 23 points in 24 months time and 6 months suspension for 24 or more points in 36 months time on your current driving record. A letter shall be mailed to your address in advance, by the state's DMV to apprise you of the risk of license suspension, when you accumulate 8-11 points in 12 months or 14-17 points in 24 months, or 20-23 in 36 months. You may be imprisoned for driving with a suspended license. However, during suspension you may be able to drive a non-commercial vehicle using a Restricted Driving Permit, if you are eligible.
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 Idaho DMV maintains a record of all the points added to your driving license. However, there are a number of ways in which you can remove points from your current driving record.

1. If you remain violation or suspension-free, you can get points deducted from your current driving record.
2. Taking a Defensive Driving Course enables you to deduct three 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.