Points on Driver's License in California (2026 Guide)
Most California drivers ignore their DMV points balance until their insurance premiums spike or their license gets suspended. Figuring out where you stand shouldn't be a guessing game. Here is the fastest way to check your points without leaving your couch, how long they stay on your record, and the easiest way to legally mask them.
How to Check Points on License in California
The quickest way to check points on your license is to pull your driving record directly through the California DMV website. It only costs $2 and takes less than 5 minutes. You don't even have to leave your home.
Below is the full list of methods to check points on your driving record:
- Online: View your driving record via MyDMV portal for a small $2 fee. (Save or print the PDF right away. You will not be able to see it a second time without paying again.)
Note: While the online record is marked "unofficial," it lists the exact same points, accidents, and violations as the official version. - By Mail: Complete the Request for Your Own Driver License Record (INF 1125) form and mail it to the DMV address listed on the back of the form with a $5 fee.
- In-Person: Visit your local DMV office to request an official copy. This also costs $5.
- By Phone: Call 1-800-777-0133 to request the INF 1125 form by mail. Due to privacy laws, DMV staff cannot tell you your point count over the phone.
How to Remove Points
If you've received a traffic citation, attending a California DMV-approved traffic school can mask the ticket from your record and prevent the point from being publicly visible to your insurance company.
Traffic school may be used once every 18 months for qualifying 1 point infractions. It's an effective way to keep your insurance rates low. However, points will still stay on your driving record for the license suspension purpose.
Below are our top 3 California traffic school recommendations for 2026.
How Points Are Assigned for Traffic Violations
Different traffic violations carry different point values. The table below outlines common infractions and how many points they add to your driving record:
| Violation | Points | Duration on Record |
|---|---|---|
| Speeding | 1 | 3 years |
| Running a red light | 1 | 3 years |
| At-fault accident | 1 | 3 years |
| Unsafe lane change | 1 | 3 years |
| Reckless driving | 2 | 7 years |
| Driving under the influence (DUI) | 2 | 10 years |
| Driving with a suspended or revoked license | 2 | 7 years |
| Hit-and-run (property damage or injury) | 2 | 10 years |
What is California Driver Violation Point System
In California, the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) uses a point system to monitor driver behavior and identify unsafe drivers. Driver license points are also known in California as Negligent Operator Points. Points are added to your driving record when you're convicted of a moving violation. Accumulating too many points within a specific time period can result in higher insurance premiums, probation, or even license suspension.
What Happens If You Accumulate Too Many Points?
Drivers who accumulate too many points within a short time frame may be classified by the DMV as a Negligent Operator, which will lead to license suspension. Non-Commercial Driver License thresholds are:
- 4 points in 12 months
- 6 points in 24 months
- 8 points in 36 months
If you reach these limits, the DMV will place you on probation for a one year period that also includes a suspension of your license for 6 months.
Points Calculation for Commercial Driver License (CDL)
If you hold a Commercial Driver License (CDL) in California, the DMV applies stricter rules to your driving record when you're operating a commercial vehicle. When a violation occurs while operating a vehicle that requires a Class A or B license, the DMV assigns 1.5 times the standard point value to that conviction. For example, a 1-point violation (like speeding or running a red light) becomes 1.5 points.
Out-of-State Violations
Even if you receive a traffic ticket outside of California, it can still affect your California driving record. CA DMV assesses convictions that California drivers receive in other US states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, and Canada. Out-of-State collisions may be reported to California DMV through the Problem Driver Pointer System (PDPS), National Driver Register or out-of-state law enforcement agencies.
Note: Understanding how the Driver's License Point System works is key to maintaining your driving privileges. If you've received a ticket and qualify for a traffic school, you can complete it 100% online at your pace and on your schedule.
About the Author
When he’s not decoding DMV jargon, you’ll usually find him on a tennis court or cycling up a hill he regrets halfway through.
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