Violating West Virginia driving and traffic laws can result in fines, the suspension of your driving privileges, and even imprisonment. The West Virginia 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 improper turn or improper backing and following too closely each carry two points. Six-point offenses include leaving a hit-and-run scene or passing a stopped school bus. The number of points assessed for different speeding violations are as follows:

Exceeding the maximum speed limit by 5-9 mph:2 points

Exceeding the maximum speed limit by 10-14 mph:3 points

Exceeding the maximum speed limit by 15 mph or more: 5 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 different durations for accumulating over 11 points on your driving record. Your license will be suspended for 30 days if you accumulate 12 -13 points, for 45 days if you accumulate 14 -15 points, for 60 days if you accumulate 16 -17 points, and for 90 days if you accumulate 18 -19 points.
2. If you accumulate over 20 points then your license is suspended till the accumulated points are reduced to 11 or less.
3. If convicted for driving on a suspended license, your license may be suspended for an extra year after all other suspensions are over. You may be imprisoned for driving with a suspended license.
4. 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 West Virginia DMV maintains a record of all the points added to your driving license. However, you can remove points from your current driving record.

1. Taking a Defensive Driving Course once in two years enables you to deduct three points from your current driving record. Licensees who have more than 11 points against their records or have violation that will increase their points to more than 11 do not qualify for this. Completing a Defensive Driving Course and may also qualify you for a reduction in your car insurance rates.
2. If you remain violation free for the period of license suspension you may complete a reinstatement application to request your license to be reinstated. The application should be accompanied by a copy of the original suspension notice, license number, and relevant fees. This can be mailed or brought in person to Building 3, Room 124, Capitol Complex, Charleston, WV 25317.

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.