Last Updated on September 16, 2024 by Kristin
Were you pulled over for putting the pedal to the metal? Now you may be wondering how long does a speeding ticket stay on your record? It’s a good question, and one that depends on where you live. In some states, you can expect the infraction to follow you for at least a year. But in others, it will take much more time to drop off of your record.
Speeding Tickets Can Stay On Your Record for Years
The length of time a speeding ticket will stay on your driving record depends on your home state. Most states use point systems to keep track of violations, which assign. In general, you get more for more severe infractions. Ultimately, these points can determine whether your license is suspended—and therefore whether you are eligible to rent a car.
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For example, let’s say you live in Washington DC. Speeding in the District can add between three to five points on your driver’s license, depending on how fast you were going. Once you rack up 10 points, your license is suspended for 90 days. At 12 points, the license is revoked for at least six months. These points stay on your DC license for two years.
Other states have their own point systems, but the idea is the same. If you accumulate too many points, you risk a suspended or revoked license. It’s also important to note that while the points may drop off, the actual ticket may be visible on your record for much longer. In Michigan, for example, points remain on a driver’s record for two years. But each ticket is visible on your record for at least seven.
How does this affect your car insurance? Progressive says “most speeding tickets will fall off your driving record within three years.”
When It’s a Problem for Rental Companies
Most people don’t have any issues renting a car due to their driving record, but it can happen. So, when do speeding tickets affect your ability to rent a car?
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A suspended license will prevent you from renting a car. After all, the validity of the renter’s license is the first thing rental car companies will check.
Speeding can also become a problem if the violation counts as reckless driving, which is considered a serious offense. Rental car companies can turn away renters based on their driving records, especially for more severe penalties. For example, Budget reserves right to deny rentals to drivers with counts of reckless driving or a DUI in the past four years, among other things. So whether a speeding ticket will affect your ability to rent a car depends on the severity of the violation.
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