Frequently Asked Questions
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Frequently Asked Questions
Get answers about how points affect your insurance rates, how long they stay on your record, and what you can do to find affordable coverage now.
Insurance Basics
How long do points stay on my driving record?
Most states remove points from your driving record after 3 to 5 years, though the violation itself may remain visible longer. The timeline varies significantly by state — California keeps points for 3 years for most violations, while New York holds them for 18 months to 3 years depending on severity. Insurance companies typically look back 3 to 5 years when calculating your rates, so even after points drop off your DMV record, the violation may still affect pricing until it ages out of that lookback window.
Insurance Basics
How many points does it take to lose your license?
License suspension thresholds range from 8 points in some states to 18 in others, typically measured within a 12 to 24-month period. Florida suspends at 12 points within 12 months, while California suspends at 4 points in 12 months using their unique negligent operator system. Some states like Tennessee use a point system strictly for tracking but suspend based on violation type rather than total points. Check your state's specific threshold because you may be closer than you think.
Insurance Basics
Can I remove points from my driving record early?
Most states allow you to remove points or prevent them from being added by completing a state-approved defensive driving course, though rules vary widely. Some states like Texas and Florida let you take a course once per year to dismiss a ticket or remove points, while others like California offer a point reduction but don't erase the violation. The course won't remove the violation from your record entirely, but it may help with insurance rates if your carrier offers a discount for completion. Check your state's DMV website for eligibility requirements.
Insurance Basics
What violations add the most points to my license?
Reckless driving, excessive speeding (20+ mph over), and at-fault accidents typically add the most points, ranging from 4 to 6 points in most states. Hit-and-run, street racing, and vehicular assault carry even higher point totals and can trigger immediate suspension. Standard speeding tickets usually add 2 to 4 points, while minor violations like failure to signal may only add 1 to 2 points. The exact point values are set by your state's DMV and can differ significantly even for the same violation type.
Coverage Options
Do I need SR-22 insurance if I have points on my license?
No, most drivers with points from speeding tickets, at-fault accidents, or moving violations do not need SR-22 insurance. SR-22 is a certificate of financial responsibility required only for specific violations like DUI, driving without insurance, repeat major offenses, or license reinstatement after suspension in most states. If you haven't been explicitly told by your state's DMV or a court that you need SR-22, you don't need it. Points alone do not trigger SR-22 requirements.
About This Site
Is my information safe when I compare insurance quotes online?
Yes, your information is transmitted using 256-bit SSL encryption, the same security standard used by banks and healthcare providers. We do not sell your information to third parties outside the insurance marketplace, and you control which carriers receive your details when you request quotes. Your driver's license number and violation history are shared only with the insurance companies you choose to get quotes from. We are required to protect your data under state insurance regulations and federal privacy laws.
About This Site
How does Drivers with Points Insurance make money?
We earn a commission from insurance companies when you compare quotes and purchase a policy through our service, at no extra cost to you. This is standard practice in the insurance industry — carriers pay us a referral fee because we help them find customers they otherwise wouldn't reach. You pay the same price as if you went directly to the insurance company, and in many cases you'll save money by comparing multiple carriers at once instead of shopping one by one. We don't charge you anything to use this site.
How It Works
What happens after I submit my information for quotes?
After you submit your information, licensed insurance agents from participating carriers will contact you by phone, email, or text with personalized quotes based on your driving record and coverage needs. You'll typically receive your first quote within minutes to a few hours, with most quotes arriving within 24 hours. You're under no obligation to purchase any policy, and you can compare all the quotes you receive to choose the best rate and coverage. You control the conversation — if you prefer email over phone calls, you can specify that in your submission.
Coverage Options
Can I get insurance with multiple violations on my record?
Yes, you can get insurance with multiple violations, though your options may be more limited and rates will be higher than drivers with clean records. Carriers that specialize in non-standard or high-risk drivers are specifically designed to insure people with 2, 3, or even more violations. If standard carriers decline your application, non-standard insurers will still provide coverage as long as you have a valid license. Your rates will decrease over time as violations age off your record, and comparing carriers annually can help you find better pricing as your record improves.
About This Site
Is Drivers with Points Insurance a real insurance company?
No, we are not an insurance company — we are a licensed insurance marketplace that connects drivers with points to carriers who offer competitive rates for their situation. We work with dozens of insurance companies, from major national brands to regional specialists, to help you compare options in one place. We don't underwrite policies or handle claims; the insurance company you choose does that. Our role is to simplify the shopping process and surface carriers you might not find on your own.
How It Works
Does comparing quotes hurt my insurance rates?
No, comparing quotes does not hurt your rates or add points to your record. Insurance quote requests are considered soft inquiries and do not affect your driving record or credit score. Carriers evaluate your existing violations and driving history that's already on file with your state's DMV — they're not adding new information. Comparing quotes is actually the single most effective way to lower your premium after getting points, since different carriers price violations so differently.
