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How Do I Remove Points From My Colorado License in 2024?

The length of time points stay on your driving record in Colorado varies depending on the type of violation. In most cases, traffic violation points remain on your record for a certain period, after which they begin to drop off if you haven’t been convicted of additional traffic-related offenses.
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You can remove up to three points from your Colorado driving record by completing a state-approved defensive driving course in 2024. This proactive step can help offset points and improve your driving record.

Points from traffic violations typically remain on your record for a specific period, depending on the type of offense. If no additional violations occur during this time, the points will gradually drop off.

However, taking action, like attending a driving course, can expedite the process and help you maintain a clean record.

How Do You Get Points on Your Driving Record?

Driving record points are usually the result of traffic violations. The exact number of points assessed per violation varies by state, and accumulating too many points within a given time-frame can lead to higher insurance premiums, license suspension, and other consequences.

A general overview of how points are assessed includes:

  • Speeding Tickets - Speeding violations typically result in points being added to your driving record. The number of points varies based on how many miles per hour you broke the speed limit.
  • Reckless Driving - Involves willful or wanton disregard for the safety of others, and usually results in a significant number of points being added to your driving record.
  • Running Red Lights or Stop Signs - Disregarding traffic signals and signs can lead to points being added to your record.
  • Driving Under the Influence (DUI) - DUI convictions usually end in a substantial number of points, and they often carry severe additional consequences such as license suspension.
  • At-Fault Accidents - Causing a traffic accident may result in points added to your driver's license, especially if the accident involves serious violations or injuries.
  • Driving Without a License or Insurance - Driving a car without a valid license or insurance may lead to points.
  • Other Moving Violations - Any number of other moving violations, such as improper lane changes, following too closely, or being on your phone while driving, can cause points to be added to your driving record.

Also Read: Easy Ways to Check License Points in Colorado

Colorado License Points for Traffic Violations

Colorado's point system for traffic violations assigns different point values based on the severity of the offense.
Minor infractions like speeding 5-9 MPH over the limit carry just 1 point, while more serious violations such as reckless driving incur 8 points.
The most severe offenses, including DUI and fleeing the scene of an accident, carry the maximum 12 points. Your license may be suspended or revoked if you accumulate too many points within a specified timeframe.

Below is an overview of common violations and their associated point values:

Violation Points
Speeding: 5-9 MPH over 1
Speeding: 10-19 MPH over 4
Speeding: 20-39 MPH over 6
Speeding: 40+ MPH over 12
Not wearing a seat belt 2
Improper passing 4
Failure to yield the right of way 3
Running a stoplight or sign 4
Careless driving 4
Failure to show proof of insurance 4
Reckless driving 8
"Speeding Contest" 12
DUI (Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol) 12
Evading an officer 12
Fleeing the scene of an accident 12

Also Read: Driving Without a License in Colorado

Understanding the Colorado License Points System

Colorado’s license points system assigns penalties for traffic violations, with thresholds that vary based on age and driving history. Exceeding these limits can result in the suspension of your driver’s license. Below are the critical thresholds and details you need to know.

Point Limits & Consequences

The points threshold for license suspension depends on the driver’s age. Staying aware of these limits is crucial to maintaining your driving privileges.

Adult Drivers (Age 21+)

  • 12 points in 12 months: License suspension.
  • 18 points in 24 months: License suspension.

Drivers over 21 have higher limits but should still track points to avoid penalties.

Minor Drivers (Under 21)

  • 6 points in 12 months: License suspension.
  • 7 points total: Maximum points until turning 21.

Younger drivers face stricter rules due to higher risks and less driving experience.

How Do I Remove Points From My Colorado License in 2024?

Accumulating points on your Colorado driver's license can lead to serious consequences, including suspension.

Understanding the state's point system and available options for point reduction is crucial to maintaining your driving privileges.

Here are options that can help you remove points:

1. Defensive Driving Course

Completing a state-approved defensive driving course can be beneficial. While Colorado doesn't have a statewide program for automatic point reduction through such classes, individual courts may offer this option. To determine eligibility, it's essential to check with the specific court handling your case.

  • Cost and Time Requirements: Courses typically range from 4 to 8 hours and may have associated fees.
  • Online vs. In-Person Options: Both formats are available; choose based on your learning preference and schedule.
  • State-Approved Providers: Ensure the Colorado DMV or the court recognizes the course.
  • Process for Point Removal: Upon completion, submit the certificate to the court or DMV as directed.

2. Time-Based Point Reduction

Points from traffic violations remain on your Colorado driving record for 24 months. After this period, they no longer affect your record.

  • 24-Month Removal Period: Points expire 24 months after the violation date.
  • How the Countdown Works: The countdown begins from the date of the offense, not the conviction.
  • Exceptions and Special Cases: Certain serious offenses may have longer retention periods.

FAQs

1. What Is the Point Reduction Process For a Colorado Driver's License in 2024?

The point reduction process for a Colorado driver's license in 2024 includes completing a defensive driving course approved by the state. This can remove up to three points from your record.

2. How Long Do Points From Traffic Violations Stay on My Colorado Driver's License?

Points from traffic violations stay on your Colorado driver's license for 24 months. However, taking a defensive driving course can help reduce points sooner.

3. Can I Take a Defensive Driving Course Online to Remove Points From My Colorado License?

Yes, you can take a defensive driving course online to remove points from your Colorado license. Colorado allows drivers to take state-approved online defensive driving courses to remove up to three points from their license.

4. What Are the Benefits of Reducing Points on My Colorado Driver's License?

The benefits of reducing points on your Colorado driver's license include lowering insurance premiums, avoiding license suspension, and improving your driving record.

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