How to Find Out How Many Points Are on an Ohio Driver's License
by Lindsey ThompsonUpdated July 06, 2023In the state of Ohio, different driving offenses incur different amounts of points. For example, the 12-point suspension rule outlines that any Ohio driver who receives 12 points on their record in a two-year period automatically receives a six-month driver’s license suspension, according to Ohio Revised Code. If you are uncertain how many points are on your driving record, you can check through the Ohio Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV).
It is important to keep track of the number of points on your Ohio driver's license. Different driving offenses result in varying point values, and accumulating too many points can lead to serious consequences such as a suspended license and increased insurance rates. This article will guide you through the process of checking your Ohio driver's license points and managing your driving records effectively.
Online Driving Records
You can request a free, unofficial two-year driving record by visiting the Ohio Bureau of Motor Vehicles Ohio License/ID Verification page. Enter your Ohio driver's license number, date of birth, first letter of your last name, and last four digits of your Social Security number.
Through the Mail
To find out how many points you have by mail, download and fill out BMV Form 1173. The form requires your name, address, date of birth, Social Security number, and ohio .river's license number. Mail the form, along with a $5 check as of 2015, to the address provided on the form. If you are requesting another person's driving record, you must also submit BMV Form 5008, which must be signed and notarized. Alternatively, you can call 1-866-675-2837 to request a copy of a driving record.
In-Person
Ohio Regional Driver License Reinstatement Centers and Local Deputy Registrar License Agencies also provide driving records. At both places, you must fill out BMV Form 1173 and pay a $5 fee at the reinstatement centers and an $8.50 fee at the license agencies. To obtain another person's record, you must have a signed and notarized BMV Form 5008.
Via the BMV Website
You can also receive your driving record online. The easiest and fastest way to check if your Ohio driver's license is suspended is through the Ohio BMV License/ID Verification portal. Enter your Ohio driver's license or ID number, date of birth, first letter of your last name, and last four digits of your Social Security number. The program provides a free, unofficial driving record from the last two years, including any open suspensions. This option is only available when looking for suspensions on your own record.
By utilizing these methods, including online requests, mail correspondence, and in-person visits, you can easily find out how many points are on your Ohio driver's license and access your driving record. Monitoring your driving record is important to understand the status of your driving privileges, track any points or suspensions, and maintain compliance with Ohio's point system. Additionally, being aware of your driving record can also impact factors such as car insurance rates and eligibility for certain programs like remedial driving courses.
TIP
Contact your local BMV office or insurance companies for more information on available courses and their impact on your driving record and car insurance.
Overall, Ohio’s point system should keep Ohio drivers in check when it comes to the speed limit and other important road rules. As long as you are obeying the rules of the road, you shouldn’t have to worry about license suspension or revocation.
Receive Letter? Seek Guidance
If you receive a warning letter or have concerns about your driving record, it is advisable to seek guidance from the Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV) or consult with insurance companies familiar with Ohio's point system.
References
Writer Bio
Lindsey Thompson began her writing career in 2001. Her work has been published in the Cincinnati Art Museum's "Member Magazine" and "The Ohio Journalist." You'll also find her work on websites like Airbnb, Chron.com, and USAToday.com. Thompson holds a Bachelor of Science in journalism from the Scripps School of Journalism at Ohio University.