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 Pennsylvania (PA), the state operates a point system for drivers who commit traffic violations. Each violation is assigned a certain number of points, and accumulating too many points can lead to penalties such as mandatory driver improvement school, a special examination, or suspension of the driver's license. For instance, if a driver accumulates 6 or more points for the first time, they are required to pass a written point examination to have 2 points removed from their record. If they fail to pass the exam within 30 days, their license is suspended until they pass. For a second accumulation of 6 points, a driver must attend a Department of Transportation (PennDOT) hearing, and for a third, the suspension is automatic. Additionally, Pennsylvania enforces strict laws regarding driving under the influence (DUI). Refusal to submit to a blood or breath test when suspected of DUI can result in a 12-month license suspension. A DUI conviction can lead to a license suspension ranging from 12 months to 18 months, depending on the severity of the offense and the driver's prior record. These regulations are designed to promote safe driving and reduce traffic-related incidents by penalizing risky driving behaviors.