Most states penalize drivers who violate traffic and criminal laws while operating a motor vehicle by restricting, suspending, or revoking the driver’s license. For example, a state may suspend a driver’s license upon refusal to submit to a blood or breath test when suspected of driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs or when a driver is convicted of driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

And most states have a traffic ticket points system that assigns points to traffic offenses—with more serious offenses receiving more points. The points a driver accumulates become a part of the driver’s record with the state and a specified number of points will lead to greater driver’s license penalties—including suspension of the driver’s license—as well as higher insurance premiums charged by insurance companies.

The use and structure of traffic ticket point systems vary from state to state and are usually located in a state’s statutes.

In Alabama, drivers who commit traffic violations or criminal offenses while operating a motor vehicle can face restrictions, suspensions, or revocations of their driver's license. For instance, Alabama law mandates an automatic suspension of a driver's license for refusal to submit to a blood or breath test under the state's implied consent laws when suspected of DUI (driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs). Additionally, a conviction for DUI will also result in license suspension or revocation, depending on the circumstances and the driver's prior record. Alabama utilizes a point system, where points are assigned for various traffic violations. Accumulating points on a driving record can lead to consequences such as license suspension. For example, accumulating 12 to 14 points in a two-year period will result in a 60-day suspension. The point system is designed to identify and take action against high-risk drivers. Insurance premiums may also increase with the accumulation of points. The specifics of the point system and related penalties are outlined in Alabama's state statutes.