Understanding the points license system
THE points license is a regulatory system which aims to make drivers responsible based on their road behavior. Thanks to this system, each offense committed results in a loss of points on the driving license.
How does the points permit system work?
As soon as an offense is committed, a reduction in the number of points occurs automatically. In France, for example, each license has an initial balance of 12 points. Depending on the seriousness of the infraction, one or more points may be removed.
Recover points on the license
Although it is common to lose points from your license following an infraction, it is also possible to recover them. There is a little-known trick that allows you to recover points on your driving license for free. Indeed, by respecting the rules and highway code for a given period (usually 2 or 3 years), all points can be restored.
The international points license
Although it is very widespread in Europe, the points license is not applied everywhere in the world. For example, the points license could soon see the light of day in Belgium. Its introduction could significantly change the situation in terms of road safety. Likewise, Ivory Coast announced in 2023 the introduction of the points license to strengthen its road safety.
A solution to road safety problems?
THE points license is often presented as an effective solution to road safety problems. Indeed, by encouraging drivers to adopt responsible driving to avoid the loss of points, the points license would help to reduce the number of road accidents.
The points license for foreigners
The points license does not spare foreign drivers. Whether you are a European citizen, long-term resident or even a tourist, you may be subject to the same rules as local drivers.
Better understanding the points license system allows you to better understand your responsibilities on the road, and therefore contribute to better road safety. No one is safe from losing points, but everyone can implement good practices to maintain a positive balance of points on their driving license.
Common infractions and number of points taken away
A driving license is an official document certifying a person’s ability to drive certain types of vehicles. This document is essential to be able to travel freely and legally on the roads. In France, the driving license is based on a points system, which aims to make drivers responsible and encourage them to adopt safe driving that respects the highway code.
Every offense committed – whether it is a speeding, driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, crossing traffic lights, or other – results in a deduction of points. The number of points deducted depends on the seriousness of the infraction.
Many offenses can result in points being deducted from your driving license. As for the number of points withdrawn, it varies depending on the seriousness of the offense committed. For example, a speeding less than 20 km/h Beyond the permitted limit results in a one-point deduction, while unsafe or obstructive parking can result in a three-point deduction.
It is important to note that each driver has a capital of 12 points on their driving license. In the event of total loss of these points, the license is suspended, which implies the obligation to retake the driving license tests.
Recovery of license points
Fortunately, it is possible to collect points on his driving license. Indeed, after a period without any infraction, the points are reallocated automatically. The length of this period varies depending on the number of points lost and the seriousness of the infraction.
In addition, it is also possible to recover points by following a road safety awareness course. This paid course allows you to recover up to four points on your driving license, within the limit of 12 points.
Offenses abroad and driving license
Legislative differential or not, an offense committed abroad, although sanctioned by the country concerned, can also result in points being withdrawn from the French driving license. This is why it is essential for every driver to be aware of the driving rules in the country where they are traveling.
In conclusion
Respecting the rules of conduct is not only a legal obligation, but also a matter of safety and good citizenship. Indeed, each offense committed endangers not only the life of the driver, but also that of other road users. This is why it is essential for any driver to know common infractions and the number of points taken away for each infraction.
Points recovery: under what conditions?
Knowing how to manage the points on your driving license is a necessity for every driver. Understanding the specific points loss and recovery system can help you maintain your driving ability over the long term. You don’t want to find yourself in a sticky situation where you risk losing your license. This is why we are going to discuss the conditions for recovering driving license points.
Withdrawal then recovery of points
The legislation put in place imposes a penalty in the event of a traffic violation. This penalty takes the form of a deduction of points from your license. Depending on the seriousness of the offense committed, the number of points withdrawn varies. For example, speeding can result in a loss of 1 to 6 points.
The good news is that it is possible to recover lost points. How ? To do this, two options are available to you:
1. You can recover all of your points after an infringement-free period which is generally three years.
2. You can participate in a points recovery course. This course, often paid, allows you to recover up to 4 points.
New regulations and their impact on points recovery
It is important to note that the driving license points recovery system has recently evolved. These changes aim to strengthen the points-based permit system in Côte d’Ivoire for example, to ensure more safety on the roads. The new regulations impose specific infractions for each point removed, making the process stricter.
Who funds the points recovery course?
It is essential to ask the question of who pays for the points recovery course. It is generally the responsibility of the driver. However, there are some exceptions. If you are an employee or apprentice and a driving license is essential for your work, your company can cover the financing of the recovery course.
Avoid the illegal marketing of license points
The popularity of a points-based licensing system has led to the emergence of a lucrative and illegal license points market on the Internet. It is imperative to avoid such pitfalls and always go through legal channels to recover your license points.
In conclusion,
Understanding the driving license points withdrawal and recovery system is of great importance for any driver. By taking into account the new regulations, knowing the financing possibilities for points recovery courses and avoiding illegal markets, you can easily navigate the process of recovering your points from your license and remain a safe and legal driver.
How to contest a withdrawal of points from your driving license?
The management of license points can prove to be a complex challenge for many drivers. Depending on the infractions, the balance can decrease quickly, and sometimes unfairly. It is in this context that the possibility of contesting a withdrawal of points comes into play. But how to proceed?
Understanding Point Removal
The first thing to know is that in France, each traffic offense is punishable by a withdrawal of points, in addition to the fine. The number of points deducted depends on the seriousness of the infraction, in accordance with 2024 scale of offenses and traffic fines.
First of all, you must regularly check your points balance. For this, the service Telepoints makes this information easier to access, allowing you to keep an eye on your situation.
Why dispute a withdrawal of points?
Contesting a points withdrawal can sometimes save your driving license. This can be particularly useful if you consider that the offense noted is not justified, if you are not the perpetrator of the offense (for example in the case of theft of number plates) or if you consider that the loss of points is disproportionate.
The dispute procedure
Start by contesting the fine that resulted from the withdrawal of points. To do this, you will need to complete the exemption request form which will be given to you with the initial fine. Remember to test as many details as possible to justify your challenge and make it credible.
Additionally, you may have changed residence and not received the points withdrawal notification. In this case, you can contact the prefecture, which has point withdrawal information and can provide you with proof of these withdrawals.
Recover your lost points
If your appeal is unsuccessful or if you have lost your points for another reason, it is always possible to recover your lost points, in particular by following a points recovery course. However, these courses have a cost and can only be followed at regular intervals.
In conclusion, managing your license points is a major issue with regard to your right to drive. It is therefore crucial to know the procedures for contesting a withdrawal of points and to use them if necessary.