Perhaps the reason you are taking this online traffic school course is to mask points on your driving record. But what are these “points” that we refer to, where do they come from, and who keeps track of them?

The Negligent Operator Treatment System (NOTS) is the system that tracks these “points,” called negligent operator points, on your driving record. The NOTS operates by issuing a series of computer-generated warning letters and progressive sanctions against your driving privilege, depending on the number of negligent operator points you have accumulated. You may be considered a negligent operator if your driving record shows one of the following “point count” totals:

• 4 points in 12 months
• 6 points in 24 months
• 8 points in 36 months

Typically these points stay on your driving record for 36 months, unless you’re convicted of something more severe.

Examples of one-point violations:

• Traffic convictions (ex. speeding, running a red light)
• At-fault collisions

More serious violations such as reckless driving or hit-and-run driving, driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, and driving while your license is suspended or revoked, are examples of two-point violations.

Violation points are assigned by Vehicle Code sections and any other code section, or city and/or county ordinance that involves the safe operation of a motor vehicle. Although a Class A or B driver without a special certificate may be allowed 2 additional points, a violation received in a commercial vehicle carries 1 1/2 times the point count normally assessed (Vehicle Code 12810.5b).

A minor, under 18 years of age, may receive a 30-day restriction if they receive two points in 12 months, or be suspended if they receive three points in 12 months (Vehicle Code 12814.6). If you get four points in 12 months, you will lose your driver license. You may also be required to pay a fine if you violate the traffic laws. In California, a fine can range anywhere from $20 for a violation such as using your cellular phone while driving, up to $1,000 for something such a second violation for unlawfully passing a school bus. (VC22454.5, 23123.5)

Any violation occurring as a pedestrian or a bicyclist has no point assigned.

Traffic School for Commercial Drivers

Commercial drivers are now able to attend traffic violator school (TVS) for violations that take place when operating non-commercial vehicles. The conviction would not count as a point for determining whether a driver is presumed to be a negligent operator.

The record of the conviction would not be held confidential and would be disclosed to employers, and to insurers for insurance underwriting and rating purposes.