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 New Jersey, the Motor Vehicle Commission (MVC) administers a point system where traffic violations are assigned points based on the severity of the offense. Accumulating too many points can lead to consequences such as surcharges, defensive driving courses, or suspension of the driver's license. For instance, if a driver accumulates 6 or more points within 3 years, they must pay a surcharge, and if they accumulate 12 or more points, their license will be suspended. Regarding driving under the influence (DUI), New Jersey law imposes penalties such as license suspension, fines, and possible imprisonment. Refusal to submit to a blood or breath test when suspected of DUI can result in a license suspension of 7 months to 1 year for a first offense. Subsequent refusals carry harsher penalties. These regulations are designed to promote road safety and deter irresponsible driving behavior.