Most states penalize drivers who violate traffic and criminal laws while operating a motor vehicle by restricting, suspending, or revoking the driver’s license. For example, a state may suspend a driver’s license upon refusal to submit to a blood or breath test when suspected of driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs or when a driver is convicted of driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs.

And most states have a traffic ticket points system that assigns points to traffic offenses—with more serious offenses receiving more points. The points a driver accumulates become a part of the driver’s record with the state and a specified number of points will lead to greater driver’s license penalties—including suspension of the driver’s license—as well as higher insurance premiums charged by insurance companies.

The use and structure of traffic ticket point systems vary from state to state and are usually located in a state’s statutes.

In Connecticut (CT), the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) administers a points system to monitor and penalize traffic violations. When a driver commits a traffic offense, points are added to their driving record. For example, speeding might result in a certain number of points, while more serious offenses like reckless driving accrue more points. Accumulating 10 or more points within a two-year period can lead to the suspension of a driver's license. Additionally, Connecticut enforces implied consent laws, meaning that drivers are presumed to have consented to a blood, breath, or urine test if suspected of driving under the influence (DUI) of alcohol or drugs. Refusal to submit to such a test when lawfully requested by a police officer can result in an immediate license suspension, separate from any additional penalties that may be imposed if the driver is subsequently convicted of DUI. The length of the suspension and the severity of penalties for DUI convictions depend on the driver's history of offenses and the specific circumstances of the violation.