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Whether you're down south in Cairo or up north navigating the streets of Chicago, if you drive in Illinois, you should be aware of the state's traffic ticket point system. Each violation earns a certain number of points on your driver's license. If you reach a predetermined number of points, you could be looking at fines, fees, and the loss of your license.
In this article, learn all about the Illinois traffic ticket points system and how you can navigate it.
Illinois Traffic Ticket Penalties
If you commit a traffic offense in Illinois, it could be costly. The state prescribes escalating penalties for more serious crimes. For instance, driving a little over the speed limit will earn five points on your license — a relatively small penalty. On the other hand, driving without liability insurance will mean your license is suspended immediately.
Types of Traffic Violations
If you get pulled over in the Prairie State, you may be issued one of three types of tickets:
- Immediate Action: These types of tickets are issued for crimes that result in the immediate suspension or revocation of driving privileges.
- Non-Point Assigned: Some traffic violations in Illinois, such as leaving the scene of an accident or using your cellphone while driving, do not have specific point values assigned.
- Point Assigned: This category prescribes points for various driving offenses. Once you hit a certain threshold, your license may be suspended or revoked.
Fines and Court Fees
Fines will vary depending on the severity of the driving infraction you commit. For example, the maximum penalty for some civil infractions, like running a red light, is $100. But violations resulting in the death of another can warrant prison sentences of 14 years or more.
How the Illinois Point System Works
The Illinois Secretary of State is responsible for tracking the number of points assigned to your driver's license. Should you need to check your current driving record and number of points, you can request your Driving Record Abstract online for a $20 fee.
Points Assigned per Violation
Some of the most common Illinois traffic citations include:
- Speeding
- 1–10 mph over limit: 5 points
- 11–14 mph over limit: 15 points
- 15–25 mph over limit: 20 points
- 26–34 mph over limit: 50 points
- 35+ mph over limit: 50 points
- Reckless Driving: 55 points
- Running a Red Light or Stop Sign: 20 points
- Illegal Transportation of Alcohol: 25 points
- Using a Handheld Phone While Driving a Commercial Vehicle: 20 points
Thresholds for License Suspension
If you are convicted of three or more moving violations in less than 12 months, Illinois will calculate the total number of points on your license to determine appropriate penalties. For drivers under 21, two or more driving offenses in a 24-month period trigger an audit of the points you've accumulated.
Impact of Traffic Tickets and Points on Insurance
Risky drivers are more costly for companies to insure. Just as car insurance after an accident will likely cost more, failing to drive safely means your insurance premium may go up.
Options for Reducing or Removing Points
In Illinois, only time will take the points off your license. Moving violations like speeding or running a red light hang around for four to five years. Illinois traffic offenses that served as the basis for your license suspension stay for seven years.
Consequences of Ignoring Traffic Tickets in Illinois
Ignoring a ticket is not an option. If you don't pay the ticket and fail to appear in court, the court sends a notice to your last known address and continues the case for 30 days. If you still haven't taken care of the ticket, the court will inform the Secretary of State to suspend your license under state law.
Tips To Avoid Traffic Tickets in Illinois
Avoiding most tickets isn't too hard, especially if you buckle up, drive the speed limit, and keep proper documentation. One survey of the most common traffic tickets in Illinois found that Illinois ranked below the national average in every ticketing category it tracked.
Get Customized Illinois Car Insurance Quotes
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FAQs
What is the difference between a ticket and a citation in Illinois?
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Premiums are sourced from over 30,000 zip codes across 200 insurance companies. We estimate premiums based on public filings for policies seeking 50/100 in liability with $500 deductibles for collision and comprehensive coverage. Estimated rates are based on a 35-year-old single female with a good credit score and no history of accidents or violations driving a 2023 Toyota RAV4 LE. We partner with Quadrant Information Services to source our data and assume no unique benefits or discounts are applied for these rates (unless otherwise stated). Your own rates may be different.