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 New Hampshire, drivers who commit traffic violations or criminal offenses while operating a motor vehicle can face license restrictions, suspensions, or revocations. For instance, New Hampshire law mandates an administrative license suspension for drivers who refuse to submit to a blood or breath test under suspicion of DUI (RSA 265-A:36), and for those convicted of DUI offenses (RSA 265-A:18). Unlike many other states, New Hampshire does not have a point system for traffic violations. Instead, the state evaluates each offense on a case-by-case basis. Accumulating too many violations or certain serious offenses can lead to license suspension or revocation. Additionally, drivers convicted of DUI can expect to face not only license suspension but also potential fines, mandatory education or treatment programs, and even imprisonment depending on the severity of the offense and prior convictions (RSA 265-A:18, RSA 265-A:21, RSA 265-A:24).