Getting a speeding ticket in Missouri can be stressful. But it doesn’t always mean points on your license. There are ways to avoid them. You just have to act fast and smart. Consult a local license back lawyer in Kansas City.
Here’s how to keep your record clean.
What Are Points on a License?
Missouri uses a point system. If you get too many points, you can lose your license. Speeding adds points to your record.
- 3 points for speeding from a state trooper
- 2 points from a city or county officer
More points mean higher insurance costs. Too many can lead to suspension.
The state tracks your total. If you hit 8 points in 18 months, you face suspension. That’s why it’s smart to act fast.
What Can You Do After a Speeding Ticket?
Don’t ignore the ticket. You have options:
- Pay it
- Fight it
- Ask for a deal
Each choice has pros and cons. The key is knowing what fits your case.
Option 1: Pay the Ticket
This is the fastest way to close the case. But you’ll get points. The court reports it to the DMV.
Paying means you agree you were speeding. It goes on your record. Your insurance may rise. Some companies charge more for just one violation.
Option 2: Fight the Ticket
Go to court. Try to prove you weren’t speeding. You can:
- Hire a lawyer
- Show evidence
- Question the officer
You might win if:
- The officer made a mistake
- Radar was wrong
- Speed signs were missing
Winning means no points. But losing means you still pay and get points.
Option 3: Get a Deal (Plea Bargain)
You or your lawyer can talk to the prosecutor. Ask for a deal.
They might:
- Reduce the charge
- Drop it to a non-moving violation
This way, you avoid points. Your driving record stays clean. This is common for first-time offenders.
What Is a Non-Moving Violation?
It’s a ticket that doesn’t involve driving errors. Examples:
- Parking ticket
- Broken headlight
- Expired tags
You can get a speeding ticket changed to one of these. Then it won’t hurt your record. Judges allow this if you haven’t had tickets before.
Can You Take a Driving Class?
Yes. In some cases, the court may let you take a class. If you finish it:
- Your ticket may not go on your record
- You avoid points
Driving classes teach safe habits. They take 4-8 hours. Some are online.
Ask the court if this is an option. You must finish the class by a set deadline.
What About a Prayer for Judgment?
Missouri doesn’t use that rule. Some states do. Missouri offers other options, like deals or classes.
Other states may let you use this rule. But Missouri courts will not.
How to Ask for a Deal
Step-by-step:
- Check the ticket for court info
- Call the court or visit their site
- Ask if you can speak to the prosecutor
- Be polite and clear
- Ask if they’ll reduce the charge
Show that you care. Say you want to avoid points. Be honest. They may help you, especially if this is your first ticket.
Should You Hire a Lawyer?
A lawyer knows the system. They can:
- Talk to the prosecutor for you
- Try to get a deal
- Represent you in court
In many cases, they can keep points off your record. This saves you money in the long run. Insurance hikes add up over time.
What Happens If You Do Nothing?
Bad idea. The court may:
- Add extra fees
- Issue a warrant
- Suspend your license
Your ticket will not go away. Always take action. Ignoring it makes things worse.
What If You Got the Ticket in Another State?
Missouri may still add points. It depends on the charge. Contact the DMV to find out.
Each state shares info through a national database. If the other state reports your ticket, Missouri may add points.
How Long Do Points Stay on Your Record?
Most stay for 3 years. But your insurance can stay high even longer.
Insurance companies check your record often. They may raise your rates for each ticket. Points can cost you hundreds over time.
Can You Remove Points?
You can earn point credits:
- One year with no new tickets: 1 point off
- Two years: 1 more point off
- Three years: 1 more point off
You can also take a driving course if allowed.
Good behavior helps. Drive safe and stay ticket-free. That’s the best way to clean your record.
What If You Drive for a Living?
CDL holders face stricter rules. Points can affect your job. You should talk to a lawyer.
Some employers fire drivers for tickets. Even one violation can lead to job loss. A lawyer can protect your license and career.
How Does a Speeding Ticket Affect Teens?
Teens have less experience. One ticket can raise their rates by a lot.
Missouri law is strict on teen drivers. Too many points mean license loss. Parents should guide them to handle tickets the right way.
Can You Keep the Ticket Off Insurance?
If you get the ticket changed to a non-moving violation, it won’t show up. Insurance companies won’t raise your rates.
Another way is to take a class if allowed. Check with the court.
Summary: How to Avoid Points
- Don’t ignore the ticket
- Ask for a deal
- Take a class if allowed
- Hire a lawyer if needed
- Keep your record clean
Avoid points. Save money. Stay legal.
5 FAQs About Speeding Tickets in Missouri
1. Can I avoid points if I pay the ticket online?
No. Paying it adds points. It’s better to ask for a deal or go to court.
2. Can I get a ticket dropped for a parking violation?
Yes. It depends on the prosecutor and your record. A clean record helps.
3. Do out-of-state tickets add points in Missouri?
Yes, if Missouri sees the charge as a moving violation. Always check with the DMV.
4. Can I talk to the prosecutor without a lawyer?
Yes. Be respectful. Many courts allow you to speak directly or through mail.
5. Will my insurance go up?
Probably. Even one ticket can raise your rate. Avoid points to lower the risk.
Avoiding points takes effort. But it can save your license and lower your costs. Take action now. Don’t wait until it’s too late. Call an experienced speeding ticket lawyer in Kansas City today.
