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 Tennessee, drivers who commit traffic violations or criminal offenses while operating a motor vehicle can face license restrictions, suspensions, or revocations. For instance, Tennessee law mandates the suspension of a driver's license for individuals who refuse to submit to blood alcohol or drug tests when suspected of DUI (driving under the influence) or for those convicted of DUI offenses. Tennessee operates a traffic violation points system, where points are assigned for various traffic infractions. More severe violations result in a higher number of points. Accumulating points on a driving record can lead to consequences such as license suspension and increased auto insurance rates. The specifics of how many points lead to certain penalties and the duration of suspensions are outlined in the state's statutes. It's important for drivers to be aware of these regulations to avoid the severe implications of accumulating too many points.