Why Points Matter
The California DMV uses a point system to track moving violations. Accumulate too many points and you face:
How Points Work
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Points stay on your record for 3 years (or up to 10 years for serious offenses like DUI).
5 Ways to Keep Your Record Clean
1. Attend Traffic School ✅ Best Option for Existing Tickets
If you already have a ticket, traffic school can prevent the point from appearing on your public record. You're eligible once every 18 months.
Start Traffic School — $39.99 →
2. Fight the Ticket in Court
If you believe the ticket was unjustified, you can contest it. Options include appearing in court or requesting a "Trial by Written Declaration" (by mail).
3. Drive Defensively
The best strategy is prevention:
4. Keep Your Vehicle Maintained
Fix-it tickets (broken tail light, expired registration) can become moving violations if you don't resolve them promptly. Keep your car in good shape.
5. Get a Dashcam
If you're wrongly accused of a violation, dashcam footage can help your case in court.
Already Have Points? Here's What to Do
If you have points on your record and your insurance went up, contact a FasTrak Insurance agent — we shop multiple carriers and can often find you a better rate even with points.
FasTrak Roadside — helping California drivers protect their records and their wallets.