Title: How to Remove Points from Your License in Arizona
Introduction:
Having points on your driver’s license can lead to increased insurance premiums, license suspension, and even the loss of driving privileges. Fortunately, Arizona offers various methods for drivers to remove points from their license. In this article, we will explore these methods in detail, providing you with essential information on how to regain a clean driving record.
1. Traffic School Attendance:
One effective way to remove points from your license is by attending an approved defensive driving course. Upon successful completion, the Arizona Department of Transportation (ADOT) will deduct the points from your driving record. You can attend traffic school once every two years to remove points, and it is especially beneficial if you have fewer than eight points on your license.
2. License Suspension:
If you face license suspension due to accumulated points, serving the suspension period without any additional violations will result in the removal of all points from your record. However, it is crucial to drive responsibly and avoid any further traffic infractions during this period.
3. Time-Based Reduction:
Points on your driving record in Arizona will automatically reduce over time. For each year without any traffic violations, the ADOT will deduct three points from your record. This method is particularly useful if you have accumulated minor infractions and are willing to wait for the points to diminish gradually.
4. Defensive Driving Course for Reducing Points:
If you have received a traffic violation, you may be eligible to attend a defensive driving course to reduce the number of points on your license by two. However, this method can only be utilized once every 12 months.
5. Consult an Attorney:
In certain cases, it may be beneficial to seek legal counsel. An attorney can help you understand your options, navigate the legal process, and potentially reduce or dismiss the charges against you. Their expertise can be particularly helpful in complex cases or if you are facing severe penalties.
6. Contesting the Violation:
If you believe you have been wrongly accused of a traffic violation, you have the right to contest it in court. By presenting evidence and a strong defense, you may be able to have the points associated with the violation removed from your record.
7. Check Your Driving Record:
Regularly reviewing your driving record is essential. Mistakes happen, and sometimes points may be added incorrectly. By checking your driving record, you can ensure its accuracy and address any discrepancies promptly.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
1. How long do points stay on your driving record in Arizona?
Points remain on your driving record for 12 months from the date of the violation.
2. Can I remove all points from my driving record?
Yes, by serving a license suspension without any additional violations, all points will be removed from your record.
3. How often can I attend traffic school to remove points?
You can attend traffic school once every two years to remove points from your license.
4. Can attending a defensive driving course remove points from my record?
Yes, attending a defensive driving course can remove up to two points from your driving record.
5. How many points can I have on my license before it is suspended?
If you accumulate eight or more points within a 12-month period, your license may be suspended.
6. Can hiring an attorney help remove points from my license?
An attorney can guide you through the legal process and potentially help you reduce or dismiss charges, which may result in the removal of points from your license.
7. Can I contest a traffic violation even if I am guilty?
Yes, you have the right to contest a traffic violation, and with a strong defense, you may be able to have points associated with the violation removed from your record.
Conclusion:
Having points on your driver’s license can have serious consequences. However, in Arizona, there are several methods available to remove points and regain a clean driving record. Whether through attending traffic school, serving a license suspension, or seeking legal counsel, understanding and utilizing these options will help you maintain a good driving record while ensuring road safety for yourself and others.