How Many Points Is a Speeding Ticket in Missouri

speeding ticket points missouri drivers receive depend on who wrote the ticket and how fast you were going. In most cases, a speeding conviction adds 2 or 3 points to your Missouri driving record. That may sound small.

However, points add up quickly, and 8 points in 18 months can suspend your license. Understanding speeding ticket points missouri rules helps you decide whether to pay, fight, or negotiate. For example, many Missouri drivers get tickets amended to non-moving violations that carry zero points. This guide explains the point values, suspension thresholds, and the steps you can take to protect your license and insurance rates.

How Speeding Ticket Points Missouri Assigns Are Calculated

Missouri uses a point system set by Revised Statutes of Missouri (RSMo) Section 302.302. The Department of Revenue (DOR) records points when a court reports a conviction. A guilty plea or simply paying the fine counts as a conviction.

The key factor is the type of law you broke. A speeding violation of a state law carries 3 points. This typically applies to tickets from the Missouri State Highway Patrol. A speeding violation of a county or municipal ordinance carries 2 points. As a result, a ticket from a city police officer often costs you one point less.

Speed alone does not change the point value. However, going 20 mph or more over the limit changes how the case is treated. It can raise your fine and remove fee caps. Speeding ticket points missouri courts report are the same whether you drove 6 or 26 mph over.

Missouri Point Thresholds, Suspensions, and Revocations

Missouri tracks your points over set time windows. Once you cross a threshold, the DOR takes action. Typically, you first get an advisory letter at 4 points within 12 months. That letter is a warning, not a penalty.

Suspension length grows with each offense. A first suspension lasts 30 days. A second lasts 60 days. A third or later suspension lasts 90 days. For example, three state speeding tickets (9 points) in 18 months would trigger a suspension.

Points also fade over time if you drive clean. After one year with no new points, your total drops by one-third. After a second clean year, it drops by half of what remains. After a third clean year, it falls to zero. However, the conviction itself stays on your record. As a result, speeding ticket points missouri drivers carry can affect insurance long after the points reset.

What to Do After You Get a Missouri Speeding Ticket

First, do not just pay the ticket. Paying is a guilty plea, and the court reports it to the DOR. Instead, read the ticket carefully. Note the court, the court date, and whether it cites state law or a city ordinance.

Second, ask about an amendment. In most cases, Missouri prosecutors will amend a speeding charge to a non-moving violation. A common example is “defective equipment” or an illegal parking charge. These carry zero points. You typically pay a higher fine, but you avoid speeding ticket points missouri would otherwise record. Many drivers hire a local traffic attorney to handle this. Fees often run $50 to $150 for minor tickets.

Third, ask about a Driver Improvement Program (DIP). Under RSMo 302.302, a court may order you to complete a DIP instead of assessing points. You can use this option once every 36 months. However, the judge must approve it, and not every court offers it.

Fourth, know your fee protections. Missouri law (RSMo 479.353) caps fines and court costs for “minor traffic violations” in municipal courts at $225. However, this cap does not apply if you were going 20 mph or more over the limit. It also does not apply in school zones or construction zones.

Finally, check your record. You can request a driver record from the Missouri DOR online or at a license office. This shows your current speeding ticket points missouri totals and helps you plan.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many points is a speeding ticket in Missouri?

A speeding ticket under state law adds 3 points. A ticket under a city or county ordinance adds 2 points. In most cases, highway patrol tickets carry the higher value when counting speeding ticket points missouri totals.

Does a Missouri speeding ticket raise my insurance?

Typically, yes. Insurers see convictions on your driving record, not just points. As a result, even a 2-point ticket can raise your premium for three years or more.

Can I get a Missouri speeding ticket reduced to zero points?

Often, yes. Many prosecutors amend speeding to a non-moving violation with no points. For example, you may plead to “defective equipment” and pay a higher fine. However, this is less likely for extreme speeds or school zone cases, so speeding ticket points missouri drivers face there are harder to avoid.

Check Your Ticket Impact

Find out exactly what your speeding ticket will cost you — including the hidden insurance increase most drivers miss. Use our free tools to get the full picture.

Official Sources & Resources

For verified traffic law and speeding ticket information:

• NHTSA (Speed Data): nhtsa.gov
• NCSL (State Traffic Laws): ncsl.org
• AAA Foundation: aaafoundation.org
• IIHS (Insurance Data): iihs.org
• State DMV Websites: Check your state DMV for official point values and fine schedules

Content last reviewed September 2026. If you notice any outdated information, please contact us.

Related Guides

• Speeding Ticket Costs by State
• Driving Points by State
• Traffic School by State
• Speeding Ticket Cost Calculator
• Insurance Impact Estimator

Disclaimer. The information on this page is provided for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal, financial, or professional advice. Fine amounts, point values, and traffic laws vary by jurisdiction and may change without notice. The creators assume no liability for accuracy or completeness. Always verify with your local court, DMV, or a qualified traffic attorney for advice specific to your situation.