Violating Illinois driving and traffic laws can result in fines, the suspension of your driving privileges, and even imprisonment. The Secretary of State's Vehicle Services Department 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.

[edit] MOVING VIOLATIONS AND POINTS

Different violations are assigned different point values, which are added to your driving record. For instance, moving violations like reckless driving carries 55 points, failure to yield right of way, passing on the wrong side, and driving on the wrong side of the divided highway each carry 20 points, driving the wrong way, driving the wrong way at a rotary intersection, and improper backing carry five points each. Screeching of tires and driving too fast for conditions both carry 10 points. The number of points assessed for different speeding violations are as follows:

Exceeding the maximum speed limit by 1-10 mph:5 points

Exceeding the maximum speed limit by 11-14 mph:15 points

Exceeding the maximum speed limit by 15-25 mph or more: 20 points

Exceeding the maximum speed limit by 26-40 mph: 50 points

Exceeding the maximum speed limit by 41 mph or more: 50 points

Driving below minimum speed limit:5 points    

Driving below minimum speed limit on an Illinois tollway:20 points

View the complete Illinois Offense Table to learn about the number of points and the details associated with each type of moving violation.

[edit] 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 if you if you are convicted of three traffic violations committed within a year or a 12-month period. You may be imprisoned for driving with a suspended license.
2. Driving under the influence of alcohol can also lead to a loss of driving privileges.
3. 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.

[edit] HOW TO CLEAR YOUR DRIVING RECORD

The Illinois Secretary of State VSD maintains a record of all the points added to your driving license. Taking a Defensive Driving Course may qualify you for a reduction in your car insurance rates.

[edit] 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.

[edit] ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

• Points are not assessed for parking or other non-moving violations.
• See also Driver's Education and Suspended Licenses.
• You may be eligible to apply for Special Driving Permits during the period of suspension that will enable you to drive during the suspension period.