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 Kentucky, the state operates a traffic ticket points system under which drivers accumulate points for various traffic violations. More serious offenses result in more points being added to the driver's record. For example, speeding 15 miles per hour over the limit may result in 3 points, while reckless driving could add 4 points. If a driver accumulates 12 or more points within a two-year period, the driver may face suspension of their license. For drivers under 18, the threshold is 7 points. Additionally, Kentucky law mandates the suspension of a driver's license for drivers who refuse to submit to a blood, breath, or urine test when suspected of driving under the influence (DUI) or for those convicted of DUI offenses. The length of the suspension varies depending on the number of prior offenses and the specific circumstances of the violation. These regulations are designed to promote road safety and deter unsafe driving behaviors.