Maryland suspends your license when you reach 8 points within a 24-month period
Maryland's Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA) tracks violations on your driving record using a point system. Each traffic violation carries a set number of points. When your total reaches 8 points within any 24-month window, the MVA automatically suspends your license for a set period. The suspension length depends on how many times you have been suspended before.
The 24-month clock matters because it means points from older violations eventually stop counting toward suspension. A violation from 25 months ago no longer affects your total, even if it remains on your record. This is why some drivers can recover from a high point total by straightforward waiting — though the suspension itself still happens first.
Key Takeaways
- Eight points accumulated within 24 months triggers an automatic license suspension from the MVA.
- Common violations carry between 1 and 12 points depending on the offense — speeding 1–10 mph over the limit is 1 point, while reckless driving is 6 points.
- Your first suspension lasts 6 months; a second suspension within 3 years lasts 12 months; a third or later suspension lasts 12 months.
- Points drop off your record after 24 months from the violation date, but the suspension itself is separate and does not disappear automatically.
What each traffic violation costs in points
Maryland assigns points based on how serious the violation is. Minor infractions like speeding carry fewer points, while dangerous driving behavior carries more. Here are the violations you are most likely to encounter:
| Violation | Points |
|---|---|
| Speeding 1–10 mph over limit | 1 point |
| Speeding 11–20 mph over limit | 3 points |
| Speeding 21+ mph over limit | 5 points |
| Failure to obey traffic signal | 3 points |
| Failure to obey stop sign | 3 points |
| Improper lane change | 1 point |
| Unsafe passing | 3 points |
| Reckless driving | 6 points |
| Driving while impaired (DWI) | 12 points |
| Hit and run | 12 points |
A single serious violation like DWI or hit and run can push you close to 8 points when ready. Even if you have a clean record otherwise, one major offense can trigger suspension. Conversely, you can accumulate 8 points through several minor violations over time — for example, three speeding tickets at 11–20 mph over the limit (3 points each) plus two improper lane changes (1 point each) equals 11 points.
How long your license stays suspended
The MVA does not suspend your license for the same length every time. The duration depends on whether this is your first suspension or a repeat offense within the past 3 years.
First suspension: 6 months. You become may be able to access to request a hearing or to request reinstatement after 6 months have passed.
Second suspension within 3 years of the first: 12 months. The 3-year window starts from the date your first suspension began, not when it ended.
Third or later suspension within 3 years of the most recent one: 12 months. Each new suspension restarts the 3-year window.
The suspension period is mandatory — you cannot drive during this time, even with a restricted license, unless you request and receive a hearing before the MVA and convince them to modify the suspension. A hearing is not automatic; you must request one in writing.
When points fall off your record
Points remain on your driving record for 24 months from the date of the violation. After 24 months, they no longer count toward a future suspension. However, the violation itself stays on your record permanently for insurance and background check purposes — only the points expire.
This means if you received a speeding ticket on January 15, 2023, those 3 points stop counting on January 15, 2025. If you are currently at 6 points and that speeding ticket is your oldest violation, you will drop to 3 points once it ages out. If you are at 8 or more points, the suspension has already happened, and the points aging off does not reverse it — but it does prevent future suspensions from accumulating as quickly.
How to request a hearing or reinstatement
If the MVA suspends your license, you have the right to request a hearing before the suspension takes effect. You must request it in writing within 10 days of receiving the suspension notice. The hearing gives you a chance to present evidence that the suspension should not happen or should be modified — for example, if you believe the violation was issued in error or if you have extraordinary circumstances.
After your suspension period ends, you must request reinstatement from the MVA. You cannot straightforward start driving again. The reinstatement process involves submitting a form, paying a reinstatement fee (currently $100 in Maryland, though this can change), and sometimes completing a driver improvement program or substance abuse program depending on the reason for suspension. Check the MVA website or call 410-787-7758 to confirm current fees and requirements.
Reducing points through driver improvement
Maryland allows you to reduce your point total by completing an approved driver improvement program. The program removes up to 3 points from your record. You can use this option once every 3 years. The program is typically a 4-hour classroom course offered by driving schools and some insurance companies.
Taking the course does not prevent a suspension if you are already at 8 points — the suspension happens automatically when you hit that threshold. However, completing the course before you reach 8 points can keep you below the suspension level. For example, if you are at 6 points, completing the course brings you to 3 points and gives you room for more violations before suspension occurs.
Some insurance companies also offer a discount for completing a driver improvement program, so the course can lower both your points and your premiums. Ask your insurer whether they recognize Maryland-approved programs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I drive to work during a suspension?
No. A standard license suspension means you cannot drive for any reason during the suspension period. Some states offer restricted licenses for work or medical appointments, but Maryland does not grant these automatically. You would need to request a hearing and convince the MVA that exceptional circumstances warrant a modification.
Do points from out-of-state violations count toward Maryland suspension?
Yes, if you were convicted in another state and the violation appears on your Maryland driving record. The MVA receives reports from other states through the Interstate Compact system. The points assigned may differ from what the other state assigned, because Maryland uses its own point scale.
What happens if I get a ticket while my license is suspended?
Driving with a suspended license is a separate criminal offense in Maryland. You face fines, possible jail time, and additional points on your record. The penalties increase if you have prior suspensions. This is why requesting a hearing or reinstatement promptly is important — continuing to drive illegally creates far worse consequences.
Does paying a ticket or going to traffic court change the points?
Paying a ticket or being found guilty in traffic court does not change the points assigned to that violation. The points are set by law based on the offense type. However, if you contest the ticket in court and are found not guilty, the violation is dismissed and no points are assigned. Some drivers also negotiate with prosecutors to reduce the charge to a lesser offense with fewer points, though this is not may provide.
How do I check my current point total?
You can view your driving record through the Maryland MVA website or by visiting an MVA office in person. You can also request a copy by mail. Your insurance company can also tell you your point total, since they use the same MVA record. Checking your record regularly helps you know how close you are to suspension and whether you should consider a driver improvement course.