McKayla Girardin, Car Insurance Writer
@mckayla_girardin
Tennessee driver’s license points work as part of a system that identifies and takes action against high-risk drivers by assigning a specific number of points for different types of traffic violations. In Tennessee, drivers accumulate one point for minor violations like speeding 1-5 miles per hour over the limit. For major violations, like reckless endangerment with a vehicle, drivers will get eight points.
Driver’s License Points Per Violation in Tennessee
| Violation | Number of Points Assigned |
| Speeding 1-5 miles per hour over the limit | 1 |
| Speeding 6-15 miles per hour over the limit | 3 |
| Speeding 16-25 miles per hour over the limit | 4 |
| Failing to obey traffic instructions | 4 |
| Failing to yield the right-of-way | 4 |
| Making an improper turn | 4 |
| Failure to report a crash | 4 |
| Speeding 26-35 miles per hour over the limit | 5 |
| Leaving the scene of a crash | 5 |
| Speeding 36-45 miles per hour over the limit | 6 |
| Reckless driving | 6 |
| Violation of license or certificate restrictions | 6 |
| Failure to yield to emergency vehicles | 6 |
| Reckless endangerment by vehicle | 8 |
| Passing a stopped school bus, church or youth bus taking on or discharging passengers | 8 |
Other Key Things to Know About Points in Tennessee
If you are convicted of a moving violation in another state, points for that violation will not be added to your driving record in Tennessee.
Driver’s license points in Tennessee expire after 24 months. However, until they expire, you may still see higher insurance premiums, especially for major violations like DUI’s and reckless driving. Knowing when your points expire will help you understand when you may see a drop in your premiums or when it may be a good time to shop for new insurance.
To learn more, check out WalletHub’s guide to points on driver’s licenses.
People also ask
How long do points stay on your license in Tennessee?
Points stay on your license for 2 years in Tennessee. After 2 years, points will fall off your driver's license and will no longer factor into your insurance rates or count toward a license suspension.
Key Things to Know About Points on Your License in Tennessee
- Accumulating 12 points in 1 year will result in a license suspension in Tennessee. Drivers might also be classified as high-risk to insure and be required...
How can I get points off my license in Tennessee?
You can get points off your license in Tennessee by taking an approved driving course. Tennessee allows drivers who fit certain eligibility requirements to complete a driving course in order to reduce or avoid a license suspension caused by accumulating too many points. Driving courses that reduce your license points might also be called traffic school or defensive driving classes.
Tennessee Point-Reduction Course Eligibility Requirements
- Course can only be completed once every five years....
How can I check my driving record in Tennessee?
You can check your driving record in Tennessee by going to the Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security website and requesting a copy. It costs $5, and you will need to provide your name, date of birth, driver's license number and Social Security number.
How to Check Your Driving Record in Tennessee
- Go to the Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security website.
- Fill out the online form with your personal information.
- Pay $5 for your...
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