In Tennessee, points are “silent killers.” The state doesn’t text you every time a point is added. You often only find out when your insurance rates skyrocket or you receive a “Notice of Proposed Suspension” in the mail.
The “12-Point” Rule:
- Adults (18+): If you accumulate 12 points within a 12-month period, you face an automatic suspension.
- Minors (Under 18): The limit is stricter. Just 6 points in 12 months can trigger a suspension.
- Note for Parents: If your teen loses their license due to points, they generally cannot drive at all. In extremely rare family emergencies, you might look into a hardship license in Tennessee, but eligibility is very tight.
Many drivers assume they have to pay just to see their status. While the official report costs money, knowing how to read it and what to do next is free. This guide covers how to check your record, the exact point values for speeding, and the “Hearing Trick” to wipe points before they stick.
Method 1: Check Your Tennessee Driver’s License Points Online (Instant MVR Download)
You don’t need to visit a Driver Services Center to see your history. You can download your Motor Vehicle Record (MVR) instantly.
Step 1: Go to the Official Portal Visit the Tennessee Dept. of Safety e-Services.
Step 2: Select “Get MVR” Look for the option labeled “Order a Motor Vehicle Report (MVR).”
- Login Requirements: You will need your Last Name, Date of Birth, Driver License Number, and SSN.
Step 3: Pay the Fee The state charges $5.00 for the report, plus a small online processing fee (usually ~$2.00).
Step 4: Download PDF The system will generate a PDF. Look for the section titled “Convictions.” This lists every ticket and the points assigned to it.
- Crucial Check: If you see a status that says “SUSPENDED” instead of “VALID,” do not drive. You must immediately follow the steps to reinstate a suspended license in TN.
Method 2: Request Your Driving Record In-Person or by Mail in Tennessee
If you cannot access the online portal, you have two “old school” options.
Option A: In-Person You can visit any Driver Services Center kiosk.
- Cost: $5.00.
- Required: Your physical license and SSN.
- Tip: Driver Services centers are notoriously busy. We strongly recommend making a DMV Tennessee appointment before driving there to skip the wait.
Option B: By Mail (Slowest) Write a request including your Full Name, DOB, License Number, and SSN.
- Include: A cashier’s check or money order for $5.00 payable to Tennessee Dept. of Safety.
- Mail to:Tennessee Dept of Safety & Homeland Security MVR Request PO Box 945 Nashville, TN 37202
Tennessee Driver’s License Point System Chart (Speeding, Reckless & Common Violations)
Not all tickets are created equal. Here is exactly what that ticket will cost you:
| Violation | Points Added |
| Speeding (1-5 mph over) | 1 Point |
| Speeding (6-15 mph over) | 3 Points |
| Speeding (16-25 mph over) | 4 Points |
| Speeding (26-35 mph over) | 5 Points |
| Speeding (36+ mph over) | 8 Points |
| Reckless Driving | 6 Points |
| Failure to Yield | 4 Points |
| Improper Passing | 4 Points |
| Running a Stop Sign/Light | 4 Points |
| Passing a Stopped School Bus | 8 Points |
Warning: Driving without a valid license is a criminal offense, not just a traffic infraction. If you have simply lost your card, do not risk driving. Learn how to replace Tennessee drivers license properly to avoid getting arrested during a routine stop.
How to Remove or Reduce Points on Your Tennessee License (Administrative Hearing Method)
The original advice to “pay fines to reduce points” is wrong. Paying a fine is an admission of guilt, which adds points to your record.
The Real Way to Remove Points: When you hit the 12-point limit (or 6 for minors), the state will send you a “Notice of Proposed Suspension.”
- Important: If you moved recently, this letter will go to your old address, and you will be suspended without knowing it. If your address is out of date, update it now using our Tennessee DMV address change guide to ensure you get this life-saving letter.
Step 1: Request the Hearing You must check the box requesting a hearing and mail it back immediately.
Step 2: Attend the Hearing At the hearing, you are often given a choice:
- Accept the suspension.
- Agree to Defensive Driving School.
Step 3: Take the Course If the hearing officer allows it, completing a 4-hour or 8-hour Driver Improvement Coursecan prevent the suspension and remove points from your active total.
Frequently Asked Questions
Points stay active for suspension purposes for 2 years. However, the conviction remains on your “permanent” record (visible to insurance companies) for 3–5 years. Major offenses like DUIs stay forever.
Yes. Tennessee is a member of the Driver License Compact. If you get a speeding ticket in Georgia, Kentucky, or Virginia, the information is sent to Tennessee and points are added to your TN license just as if it happened at home.
Generally, no. Driving records are protected by the Driver Privacy Protection Act (DPPA). You can only request your own record or the record of a minor child if you are their legal guardian. Employers and attorneys can request records but only for specific legal purposes.
Drive extremely carefully. You are one point away from suspension. If you get another ticket, do not just pay it online. Go to court and ask the judge if you can attend traffic school before the conviction is reported to the state. This stops the points from ever hitting your record.
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