How Many Points Until Your License is Suspended in SC?

If you drive in South Carolina, you probably don’t give much thought to the point system—until you’re staring at a speeding ticket or a traffic violation that could cost you your driving privileges. But how many points on your record does it take before you’re dealing with a license suspension? Let’s break it down because knowing the rules now could save you a major headache (and a lot of money) later.

The South Carolina DMV Point System: What You Need to Know

South Carolina uses a point system to track traffic violations, assigning a certain number of points to each offense. These traffic violation points accumulate on your driving record, and if you rack up too many, you could be facing a suspended license or higher car insurance rates.

According to South Carolina Code § 56-1-720, different violations have different point values, and they stay on your record for two years. However, they get reduced by half after one year. That’s good news—but it doesn’t mean you’re in the clear.

How Many Points Until Your License is Suspended?

In South Carolina, if you accumulate 12 points or more, you can expect to lose your driver’s license. Here’s how the DMV breaks it down:

• 6 points – You get a warning letter. Not the worst thing in the world, but a big red flag that you need to drive more carefully.
• 12 points or more – You’re looking at a license suspension.

Suspension Periods Based on Points:

• 12-15 points – 3-month suspension
• 16-17 points – 4-month suspension
• 18-19 points – 5-month suspension
• 20+ points – 6-month suspension

That means if you’re consistently pushing the speed limit, running stop signs, or getting cited for reckless driving, you’re playing a dangerous game with your driving privileges.

Common Traffic Violations and Their Point Values

So what exactly gets you in trouble? Here’s a look at some common traffic violations in South Carolina and how many points they’ll add to your driving record:

• Reckless driving – 6 points
• Speeding 25 mph or more over the speed limit – 6 points
• Following too closely – 4 points
• Failure to yield the right of way – 4 points
• Speeding 10 mph or less over the limit – 2 points
• Improper lane change or shifting lanes without signaling – 2 points

If you think these sound minor, think again. These traffic violations can add up quickly, especially if you’re not paying attention or if you drive frequently.

How Long Do Points Stay on Your Record?

The good news? Points don’t last forever. The bad news? They can stick around long enough to cause problems.

• Points stay on your record for two years.
• After one year, they are reduced by half.

For example, if you got 6 points for reckless driving, after one year, you’d still have 3 points on your record.

However, some violations—like DUI or hit and runs—carry more severe penalties, including longer suspensions and harsher legal consequences.

How to Reduce Your Points and Keep Your License

If you’re worried about hitting that 12-point threshold, don’t panic—there are ways to lower your point total and keep your driving privileges intact.

1. Take a Defensive Driving Course

Did you know that taking a defensive driving course can knock four points off your record? According to South Carolina Code § 56-1-740, completing an SC DMV-certified defensive driving course, such as the National Safety Council’s 8-hour Defensive Driving Course, can help reduce your total traffic points.

2. Drive Carefully and Follow Traffic Laws

The simplest way to avoid license suspension? Don’t break the law. Observe speed limits, use turn signals, and stay out of safety zones. It’s common sense, but you’d be surprised how many people let small infractions pile up until they’re in serious trouble.

3. Apply for a Route-Restricted License

If your license is suspended, you might be eligible for a route-restricted license, which lets you drive to work, school, or medical appointments. However, these are granted only in specific circumstances. If you’re in this situation, consulting a criminal defense lawyer can help you understand your options.

When Should You Contact a Lawyer?

If you’re facing a license suspension, a criminal defense attorney can help you fight a traffic ticket, appeal your suspension, or explore options to protect your driving privileges. This is especially important if your suspension is related to driving under the influence (DUI), reckless driving, or hit and runs—violations that carry more than just point-based penalties.

Here’s when you should consider legal help:

• You have multiple traffic violations and risk accumulating 12 points or more.
• You were cited for DUI, reckless driving, or a hit-and-run, which may result in severe penalties.
• You want to challenge a traffic ticket or dispute the accuracy of a violation.
• Your insurance rates are skyrocketing due to traffic violations on your record.
• You need assistance applying for a route-restricted license to continue driving legally.

A knowledgeable defense lawyer can assess your situation, represent you in court, and work toward reducing the impact of traffic violations on your driving record and future mobility.

Final Thoughts: Stay Smart, Stay on the Road

The South Carolina point system isn’t just about punishing bad drivers—it’s designed to encourage safe driving habits. If you’re racking up traffic violation points, take action now. Whether that means taking a defensive driving course, disputing a traffic ticket, or talking to a criminal defense lawyer, don’t wait until it’s too late.

If you’re worried about losing your license, Okoye Law is here to help. Contact us today, and let’s find a way to protect your driving privileges and your future.