“I’ll just pay the ticket online. It’s just easier.”
People have a common misconception about traffic tickets in North Carolina. When faced with a speeding ticket or other traffic infraction, many drivers do a quick online search, confirm they won’t lose their license, see that the fine and court costs are manageable, and decide to pay online. No court appearance required. Quick and easy, right?
What most people don’t realize is that the State of North Carolina operates two separate points systems for drivers. Not understanding the difference can create serious (and expensive) problems.
DMV Points vs. Insurance Points
1. North Carolina DMV Points (N.C.G.S. § 20-16)
The North Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles assigns points according to the schedule in N.C.G.S. § 20-16. Under this statute:
- Accumulating 12 points within a three-year period triggers an automatic license suspension.
- First suspension: 60 days
- Subsequent suspension: 6 months
Points currently range from 1 point (e.g., littering) up to 5 points (e.g., passing a stopped school bus or reckless driving). This is a rolling three-year period, not three calendar years.
Section 20-16 also lists additional grounds for suspension of driving privileges beyond point accumulation.
2. Insurance Points – Safe Driver Incentive Plan (SDIP)
Separate and distinct from the DMV system is the Safe Driver Incentive Plan (SDIP) administered by the North Carolina Department of Insurance (authorized by N.C.G.S. § 58-36-65).
Under the SDIP:
- Basic moving violations typically carry 1 point and a 40% insurance rate increase.
- Points can go as high as 12 points (e.g., Driving While Impaired), which can produce a 340% rate increase.
- Example: Speeding in excess of 75 mph in a zone under 70 mph is assessed 4 points and a 90% rate hike.
→ A driver with a $1,000 annual premium could see it jump to $1,900.
SDIP points generally affect premiums for a rolling three-year period from the date of the violation. In 2025, the Bureau updated the surcharge period to five years for serious violations.
Why Where You Got the Ticket Matters
On top of the two different points systems, where the ticket was issued is important. Each county has its own policies and procedures for resolving traffic citations.
What a Lawyer Can Do
Points are assessed on the conviction, not merely on the issuance of the ticket. Skilled counsel can often negotiate with the prosecutor for a reduction that may avoid points under either the DMV system or the insurance SDIP.
Did you get a traffic ticket in North Carolina?
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