Reader’s Question:

I have a friend who lives in Chesapeake, Virginia and has a VA driver’s license. He has a +1 point on his driving record. We are wondering what does a +1 point mean? Is it a good thing or bad thing? And also, if he has a +1 point can he use that to lower down his points if let’s say he is given a -3 point violation for speed driving. Does it work that way?

Quentin

Chesapeake, VA

In general, most states follow a point system for assessing the traffic violations of motorists. Points are given depending on the gravity of the offense. Virginia follows this points system. A warning letter will be sent to a motorist who has accumulated 6 - 8 Succeeding violations might lead to license suspension.

Negative points (demerit points) are the points received for violating traffic rules. Positive points on the other hand are awarded to Virginia driver’s license holder who keeps a clean driving record (which means no traffic violation) for one full year. You can get a +1 point/ year of violation-free driving history.

Now going back to your question, yes it’s good to have + points on your driving record. And the more good thing about that is that + points will help you offset the - points you have received. So if you have a -3 points for speed driving and has a +1 that you have earned, then it will leave you a -2 points on your record.

Ask the VA DMV for additional information on how you can get more + points. It’s always best to maintain good driving record, because you will always be rewarded with + points and having a good driving record always means a lower car insurance premium.

Tags: auto insurance