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 Colorado, the Division of Motor Vehicles (DMV) operates a point system to monitor and penalize traffic violations. When a driver commits a traffic offense, points are added to their driving record. The number of points depends on the severity of the violation. For example, DUI offenses carry significant points and can lead to immediate license suspension. Colorado law mandates the suspension of a driver's license if they accumulate too many points within a certain period. For adults over 21, accumulating 12 points in 12 months, or 18 points in 24 months, can result in suspension. For drivers under 21, the thresholds are lower. Additionally, Colorado has an Express Consent Law, which means that by driving in the state, drivers have consented to take a chemical test if a law enforcement officer has reasonable grounds to believe the driver is under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Refusal to submit to a blood or breath test can result in the automatic suspension of the driver's license. These regulations are designed to promote road safety and deter irresponsible driving behavior.