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 Illinois, the Secretary of State is responsible for regulating driver's licenses and has the authority to suspend or revoke a license for various violations. Illinois operates a points system where traffic violations are assigned a certain number of points. If a driver accumulates a certain number of points, it can lead to the suspension or revocation of their driver's license. For instance, if a driver refuses to submit to a chemical test when suspected of driving under the influence (DUI), their license can be suspended under the state's implied consent law. A DUI conviction also results in license suspension or revocation, along with other penalties. The points from traffic violations also impact insurance premiums, as insurers may consider a driver with a higher point total to be a higher risk. The specifics of the points system and the consequences of accumulating points can be found in the Illinois Vehicle Code.