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 Maryland, the Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA) operates a point system to monitor driving behavior. When a driver is convicted of a traffic violation, points are added to their driving record. The severity of the violation determines the number of points assigned. For example, minor offenses may result in one or two points, while more serious offenses, such as driving under the influence (DUI) or driving while impaired (DWI), can result in heavier point penalties. Accumulating a certain number of points can lead to consequences such as a warning letter, required enrollment in a Driver Improvement Program, or more severe actions like license suspension or revocation. Specifically, accumulating 8 to 11 points will result in a license suspension, while 12 or more points will lead to revocation. Regarding DUI or DWI, Maryland law mandates the suspension of a driver's license if the driver refuses to submit to a blood or breath test, or if the driver is convicted of DUI or DWI. The length of the suspension or revocation can vary based on the circumstances of the offense and the driver's prior record.