1. How many points are assessed for a reckless driving violation in Tennessee?
In Tennessee, a reckless driving violation is a Class B misdemeanor and is punishable by up to 30 days in jail, a fine of up to $500, or both. There are also 12 points that are assessed to the violator’s license.
2. What is the penalty for driving with a revoked license in Tennessee?
In Tennessee, driving with a revoked license is a Class B misdemeanor, punishable by up to 6 months in jail and/or a fine of up to $500.
3. Does Tennessee have a mandatory suspension for exceeding 12 points on a driver’s license?
Yes, Tennessee does have a mandatory suspension for exceeding 12 points on a driver’s license. If a driver accumulates 12 or more points in one year, their license will be suspended for a period of six months.
4. Is there a grace period for paying fines and fees associated with driver’s license points in Tennessee?
Yes, drivers in Tennessee have a 10-day grace period to pay fines and fees associated with driver’s license points.
5. Are points added to a driver’s license for certain minor traffic violations in Tennessee?
Yes, points are added to a driver’s license for certain minor traffic violations in Tennessee. The points range from 1-6 depending on the severity of the violation.
6. How long are points from violations active on a driver’s license in Tennessee?
In Tennessee, points from violations will stay on a driver’s license for five years.
7. How often does Tennessee assess points on a driver’s license for moving violations?
In Tennessee, points are assessed for moving violations depending on the severity of the violation. Most moving violations will result in 2 to 4 points being assessed to a driver’s license.
8. Is there an appeal process available for drivers who receive too many points on their licenses in Tennessee?
Yes, drivers who receive too many points on their licenses in Tennessee can appeal the suspension through the Driver Services Department. Drivers will need to fill out a Request for Driver Service Hearing (DS-09) form available on the Department of Safety website and submit it with any supporting documentation to the Driver Services Department. The request will be reviewed and a hearing may be granted.
9. How many points are assessed for failing to yield to pedestrians in Tennessee?
In Tennessee, failing to yield to pedestrians is a Class C misdemeanor, punishable by a fine of up to $50. In addition, two points are assessed against the driver’s license.
10. Does Tennessee have any provisions to reduce the number of points on a driver’s license?
Yes, the Tennessee Department of Safety & Homeland Security offers a Driver Improvement Program (DIP) that allows drivers who violate Tennessee traffic laws to reduce the number of points on their license. Drivers can take an online course, which will reduce three points from their license.
11. Are there any good driver discounts available in Tennessee based on low point totals?
Yes, some auto insurance companies in Tennessee offer discounts to drivers with low points totals. These discounts can vary depending on the company and the driver’s individual situation.
12. What is the penalty for driving with an expired license in Tennessee?
The penalty for driving without a valid license in Tennessee is up to 30 days in jail and/or a fine of $50-$100.
13. Is there a community service option available to drivers who receive too many points in Tennessee?
Yes, in Tennessee, drivers can opt to participate in a state-approved Driver Safety Program in lieu of additional points being added to their driver’s license. Completion of the program can result in the removal of up to four points from a driver’s license.
14. Does Tennessee have any programs or incentives to encourage safe driving habits?
Yes, Tennessee has several programs and incentives to encourage safe driving habits. The Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security offers several programs, including the Teen Driver Education Program, the Drive Safe Tennessee Program, and the Seat Belt/Traffic Safety Education Program. The TDOT also offers a variety of incentives such as discounts on auto insurance for safe drivers, rewards for completing defensive driving courses, and discounts on traffic tickets for drivers who complete defensive driving courses.
15. Are there any specific laws regarding distracted driving in Tennessee?
Yes, in Tennessee there is a law that prohibits texting while driving. This law is known as the “Hands-Free Law” and it was enacted in July 2019. The law prohibits drivers from holding or supporting a cellphone while driving, unless it is to make an emergency call. Additionally, the law prohibits all drivers from watching or recording videos on a cell phone while the vehicle is in motion. The law does allow for hands-free use of phones in certain circumstances. Violators of this law can face fines and possible jail time.
16. Are points added to a driver’s license for certain violations involving alcohol or drugs in Tennessee?
Yes, points are added to a driver’s license in Tennessee for certain violations involving alcohol or drugs. Depending on the severity of the violation, a driver can receive 4-12 points. Points are added to a license for offenses such as driving under the influence (DUI), driving while impaired (DWI), and possession of drugs or controlled substances while operating a vehicle.
17. Is there an online system available to track the number of points on a driver’s license in Tennessee?
Yes, the Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security offers an online system called Driver Record Lookup that allows drivers to view the points on their license. Additionally, drivers can use the system to view the history of their driving record, including any traffic violations and suspensions.
18. Does Tennessee allow drivers to take defensive driving courses to reduce the number of points on their licenses?
Yes, Tennessee does allow drivers to take defensive driving courses to reduce the number of points on their licenses. The Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security offers a Driver Improvement Program that allows drivers who have accumulated 8 or more points on their license to enroll in the program to reduce their points by up to 4. Drivers must complete the course before their license is suspended due to too many points.
19. Are there any regulations regarding the use of dashboard cameras or other recording devices while driving in Tennessee?
Yes. The Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security issued a memo in 2016 that outlines the regulation of dashboard cameras for use in commercial motor vehicles. The regulations state that dashboard cameras must be mounted in a manner that doesn’t interfere with the driver’s field of vision or the operation of the vehicle. Drivers must also be notified if they are being recorded, and any recordings must be stored for at least 30 days. Additionally, drivers may be required to keep any recordings for up to 1 year for use as evidence in legal proceedings.
20. Is there an age limit for drivers who can receive points on their licenses in Tennessee?
Yes, drivers who are 21 years of age or over can receive points on their licenses in Tennessee for certain traffic violations. For drivers under 21, points will not be assessed for traffic violations. Drivers under 18 who receive a ticket for a moving violation are subject to a suspension of their license if they accumulate 8 or more points within a 12-month period.