How Many Points Can You Get Before Suspension in Indiana

Points before suspension indiana is a common search for drivers who just got a ticket and are worried about their license. Indiana gives every moving violation a point value from 0 to 10. Points stay active on your record for two years from the conviction date.

Once your total climbs high enough, the Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV) can require a class, a hearing, or a suspension. Knowing the points before suspension indiana limits helps you plan ahead. For example, three speeding tickets in two years can put you close to the line. This guide covers the thresholds, the point values, and how to protect your license.

Points Before Suspension Indiana: The Key Thresholds

Indiana does not have a single cutoff. Instead, the BMV takes action in stages. According to the Indiana Driver’s Manual, gaining 18 or more points within two years can lead to an administrative hearing. At that hearing, a BMV officer can suspend your license, put you on probation, or order a Driver Safety Program (DSP).

The state’s administrative code sets a step-by-step suspension scale. Under 140 IAC 1-4.5, 20 active points within 24 months brings a one-month suspension. That count is taken after any DSP credit. The penalty then grows as your points go up. At 42 or more points, the suspension is 12 months.

In most cases, the points before suspension indiana number to remember is 20. However, trouble can start sooner. Drivers with 18 points can be called to a hearing. As a result, you should take action well before you reach either number.

How Indiana Points Add Up

Each violation carries a set point value. More dangerous offenses carry more points. Speeding points depend on how far over the limit you were driving. The table below shows common speeding values and the suspension scale.

Here is a simple example. Say you get three tickets for 26 mph over in two years. That adds up to 18 points. As a result, you could face a hearing. One more small ticket could push you past 20 points.

Point totals are not the only risk. Indiana also has a Habitual Traffic Violator (HTV) law under IC 9-30-10. Drivers with 10 traffic judgments in 10 years can lose their license for five years, as long as at least one judgment is a listed offense. Parking and equipment tickets do not count toward that total. In other words, the points before suspension indiana rules are only one part of the picture.

What to Do If Your Points Are Adding Up

First, get a copy of your Official Driver Record from the Indiana BMV. It lists your active points and conviction dates. Typically, you can buy it online through the BMV’s myBMV portal. Check it to see how close you are to the points before suspension indiana thresholds.

Next, think about a Driver Safety Program. The BMV takes 4 points off your record when you finish an approved DSP. However, you can only get this credit once every three years. Taking the class early can keep you below 20 points. That credit matters most when you are already near the limit.

Watch your mail closely. State law lets the BMV require a DSP for drivers with two or more traffic convictions in 12 months. Drivers under 21 must take a DSP after two convictions. If the BMV orders a DSP, you have 90 days to finish it. If you miss that deadline, your license will be suspended.

Finally, don’t just pay every ticket without thinking. Paying a ticket counts as a conviction, and that adds points. For example, you may be able to contest the ticket or ask about a deferral program in your county. Many Indiana courts offer deferrals for minor tickets. If you complete one, the ticket may be dismissed and no points added. A local traffic attorney can explain your options. Protecting yourself from the points before suspension indiana limits often starts at the courthouse.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many points before suspension in Indiana?

Under the state’s suspension scale, 20 active points within 24 months brings a one-month suspension. However, 18 points in two years can already lead to a BMV hearing. In most cases, the points before suspension indiana number to keep in mind is 18 to 20.

How long do points stay on an Indiana driving record?

Points stay active for two years from the conviction date. After that, they no longer count toward suspension. However, the conviction itself stays on your driving record and may still count under the Habitual Traffic Violator law.

Can I remove points from my Indiana license?

Yes, in a limited way. Finishing a BMV-approved Driver Safety Program takes 4 points off your record. As a result, you can stay further from the points before suspension indiana limits. Typically, you can only use this credit once every three years.

Check Your Ticket Impact

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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.

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• Speeding Ticket Costs by State
• Driving Points by State
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• 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.