How to Remove Violations from Your Driving Record in Georgia

TL;DR: You can clear or reduce violations by taking a DDS-approved defensive driving course, using a nolo contendere plea, or disputing errors with the Georgia DDS. Points for most minor violations drop off automatically after two years.

Most drivers in Georgia only start worrying about their driving record when something goes wrong. It might be a sudden spike in insurance premiums, a rejected job application, or a letter from the Georgia Department of Driver Services (DDS) that reminds you of a ticket you got months ago. Whatever the reason, that sinking feeling often leads to the same question: how do I remove violations from my driving record in Georgia?

The truth is, while you cannot completely erase every mistake, there are practical steps you can take to clean up your record, reduce points, and minimize the impact of past violations. Whether you are trying to lower your insurance rate, restore your driving privileges, or simply start fresh, understanding how the system works in Georgia can make a big difference.

Let’s go through how you can manage, reduce, and possibly remove violations from your driving record the right way.

Understanding Your Georgia Driving Record

Before taking any action, it is important to understand what your Georgia driving record actually contains. Your driving record is an official document maintained by the Georgia Department of Driver Services (DDS). It includes your personal information, driver’s license status, and a complete list of your driving history.

A typical driving record will show:

• Traffic citations and convictions
• Points added for moving violations
• Accidents you were involved in
• License suspensions, revocations, or reinstatements
• Your driver’s license class and expiration date

You can request a copy of your record online through the DDS website, in person at a DDS Customer Service Center, or by mail. There is usually a small fee involved, but it is well worth it. Reviewing your record helps you identify any incorrect information and understand how close you are to reaching the point limit that could trigger a suspension.

It is a good idea to check your driving record at least once a year, especially if you drive for work, plan to apply for a new job, or are renewing your auto insurance policy.

The Point System: Why It Matters

Georgia uses a point system to monitor drivers and encourage safe driving habits. Every time you are convicted of a moving violation, a certain number of points is added to your record. Accumulating too many points within a short period can lead to a suspended license.

Here is how some of the common violations are scored:

• Speeding 15 to 18 mph over the limit: 2 points
• Speeding 19 to 23 mph over the limit: 3 points
• Speeding 24 to 33 mph over the limit: 4 points
• Reckless driving: 4 points
• Aggressive driving: 6 points
• Running a red light or stop sign: 3 points
• Failure to yield: 3 points

If you accumulate 15 points within 24 months, your license will be suspended. For younger drivers under 21, the standards are even stricter. Certain violations, such as reckless driving or driving 24 mph over the speed limit, can trigger an automatic suspension even with fewer points.

Understanding how these points work is the first step toward getting them reduced or removed.

Taking a Defensive Driving Course

A defensive driving course is one of the best ways to reduce points and improve your driving record in Georgia. The DDS allows drivers to remove up to 7 points once every 5 years by completing a DDS-approved defensive driving or driver improvement course.

These courses typically last six hours and can be taken in person or online through approved schools. They teach techniques for safer driving, hazard awareness, and accident prevention. Once you complete the course, you will receive a certificate of completion. You then need to submit this certificate to the DDS, either in person or by mail, to officially reduce your points.

In addition to point reduction, completing a defensive driving course can also have other benefits:

• Insurance discounts: Many insurance companies offer a premium reduction to drivers who voluntarily complete a defensive driving course.
• Ticket dismissal: In some cases, courts allow drivers to take the course to dismiss a traffic ticket or avoid a conviction being added to their record.

Before enrolling, always make sure the program is officially recognized by the Georgia DDS. Courses that are not approved will not count toward point reduction or record improvement.

Contesting a Ticket in Court

If you believe a traffic ticket was issued unfairly or in error, you have the right to contest it in court. Paying a ticket is considered an admission of guilt and will automatically place points on your driving record. By challenging the citation, you may be able to have it reduced or dismissed altogether.

To contest a ticket:

1. Inform the court listed on your citation that you wish to plead “not guilty” and request a hearing date.
2. Gather any relevant evidence, such as photos, witness statements, or dashcam footage.
3. Attend the hearing or have a traffic attorney represent you.

If the judge finds in your favor, the violation will not be recorded. Even if you are found partially responsible, an attorney can sometimes negotiate for a lesser charge that carries no points or fewer penalties.

While this option requires time and effort, it can be worthwhile, especially for violations that carry high points or significant insurance consequences.

Using the “Nolo Contendere” Plea (No Contest)

Georgia law allows drivers to plead nolo contendere, which means “no contest,” once every five years. This plea allows you to resolve your ticket without admitting guilt, and in many cases, it prevents points from being added to your record.

However, this option is not suitable for every situation. Certain serious violations, such as DUI, hit and run, or driving without insurance, do not qualify for a nolo plea. Additionally, the court must accept your plea before it becomes effective.

It is strongly recommended to consult a traffic attorney before entering a nolo contendere plea. Misusing it or using it at the wrong time could eliminate your eligibility for future benefits or fail to protect your record as intended.

Expungement or Record Restriction: What’s Possible in Georgia

Unlike criminal charges, traffic violations in Georgia cannot be fully expunged in most cases. Once a conviction is entered on your record, it generally remains for a set period. However, certain records can be corrected or restricted if they were added by mistake or if you were found not guilty.

Here is what you can do:

• Dispute errors: If you find a violation that should not be there, contact the Georgia DDS and request an investigation. Provide documentation such as a court order or a letter of dismissal to have the entry corrected.
• Wait for natural expiration: Points and minor violations usually fall off your record after a few years. Most insurance companies only review the last three years of your driving history, so older issues often lose their impact over time.

Although you cannot erase every mark on your record, taking action to correct errors and allowing time to pass can significantly improve your standing.

How Long Violations Stay on Your Record

The duration that a violation stays on your record depends on its severity. In general:

• Minor traffic violations remain for about 2 to 3 years.
• Serious violations, such as DUI or reckless driving, can remain for 7 years or longer.
• Points from violations automatically expire after 2 years from the conviction date.

Even though serious offenses remain visible longer, their impact tends to lessen as you maintain a clean record afterward. Many employers and insurers care more about your recent behavior than isolated mistakes from years ago.

Keeping Your Record Clean Going Forward

Once you have addressed past issues, maintaining a clean record is the best way to protect yourself from future problems. Here are some reliable habits to keep your record spotless:

• Obey traffic laws consistently. Avoid speeding, running lights, or following too closely.
• Stay focused while driving. Avoid texting, eating, or other distractions that can cause accidents.
• Keep your vehicle in good condition. Proper lighting, braking, and tire maintenance can prevent unnecessary stops or violations.
• Renew your license and insurance on time. Administrative oversights like driving with an expired license can add unnecessary penalties.
• Take refresher courses periodically. Even if you are an experienced driver, updating your knowledge can help prevent mistakes.

A clean record not only keeps you legally safe but can also lead to lower insurance premiums, better job prospects, and greater peace of mind behind the wheel.

Final Thoughts

Clearing up your driving record in Georgia is not about rewriting the past but about taking control of your future. Whether you choose to take a defensive driving course, contest a questionable ticket, or simply allow time to work in your favor, every effort helps you move closer to a clean slate.

Think of your driving record as your personal reputation on the road. Keeping it clean shows responsibility, discipline, and awareness. With the right approach and a bit of patience, you can turn even a troubled record into a story of steady improvement and renewed confidence behind the wheel. Contact us for free case evaluation.