Massachusetts in Traffic Violations and Infractions

Traffic violations and infractions in Massachusetts are common but often misunderstood. Whether it’s a speeding ticket, a red-light violation, or a more serious offense like operating under the influence (OUI), each type of violation carries specific legal and financial consequences. The difference between civil and criminal traffic offenses can help drivers make informed decisions and avoid costly mistakes.

Massachusetts drivers who receive a traffic citation should know their rights, responsibilities, and the steps needed to resolve the issue. This section provides a clear overview of how traffic laws work, what to expect when issued a violation, and how these infractions may affect your driving record. Reviewing Massachusetts court records can also offer helpful context when researching similar violations or legal outcomes. Staying informed can help protect your license, avoid penalties, and maintain safe driving habits across the Commonwealth.

Overview of Massachusetts Traffic Laws

Massachusetts traffic laws are designed to promote safety, regulate vehicle use, and enforce responsible driving behavior throughout the state. Whether you’re a daily commuter, a student driver, or simply visiting, it’s essential to understand the general classifications of violations, the governing legal framework, and how infractions can affect your driving record and insurance.

Infraction vs. Criminal Violation in Massachusetts

Traffic offenses in Massachusetts are broadly categorized into civil infractions and criminal violations:

Civil Infractions: These are non-criminal violations such as speeding, failure to yield, running a red light, or driving with an expired inspection sticker. These offenses typically result in a fine and may add surchargeable points to your driving record.
Criminal Violations: These involve more serious conduct such as driving under the influence (OUI), operating with a suspended license, or reckless driving. Criminal traffic offenses can lead to arrest, court appearances, license suspension, and even jail time depending on the severity.

This distinction is important because criminal violations can have long-term legal and personal consequences, while infractions may still significantly impact your driving history and insurance.

Governing Laws and Authorities

Massachusetts traffic rules are primarily governed by:

Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 90 (M.G.L. c. 90) – This chapter covers motor vehicle operation, licensing, registration, and roadway conduct.
Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles (RMV) – The RMV enforces traffic regulations, manages driving records, and oversees penalties, license suspensions, and hearings.

These governing bodies work in tandem with law enforcement and the court system to regulate and penalize unsafe or unlawful driving behavior.

Impact on Driving Record and Insurance

Traffic violations in Massachusetts can result in:

Surchargeable events – These are reported to the RMV and can remain on your driving record for several years.
License points – Although Massachusetts does not use a traditional point system, repeated violations or surchargeable events can lead to license suspension or mandatory retraining programs.
Insurance premium increases – Civil and criminal traffic violations are often reported to insurers, who may raise rates based on risk assessment.

Maintaining a clean driving record is not only beneficial for staying legal and safe on the roads—it also helps keep your auto insurance rates affordable and your driving privileges intact.

Common Traffic Violations in Massachusetts

Traffic laws in Massachusetts are designed to keep roads safe for drivers, passengers, and pedestrians. However, many residents still find themselves facing traffic violations, ranging from minor civil infractions to more serious criminal offenses. The differences between these categories—and the consequences tied to each—can help you respond appropriately and avoid further legal complications.

Civil Infractions

A civil traffic ticket in MA typically refers to non-criminal traffic offenses that don’t involve jail time but may result in fines or other administrative penalties. These infractions are considered violations of traffic regulations rather than criminal law, and they’re usually handled through the Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles (RMV) or local district courts.

Common Civil Traffic Violations Include:

Speeding: One of the most cited offenses; penalties depend on how far over the limit you were driving.
Expired inspection sticker: Driving without a current inspection can lead to fines.
Failure to yield: Not yielding the right of way can disrupt traffic flow and cause accidents.

Key Consequences:

Fines and potential surcharges on your auto insurance
License points (which may impact your driving history)
RMV-imposed license suspensions for repeated violations

While these offenses are not criminal, ignoring or failing to respond to a civil ticket may result in additional penalties, such as a default judgment or license suspension.

Criminal Violations

A criminal traffic violation in MA involves behavior that the state considers a threat to public safety. These offenses are more serious than civil infractions and may lead to arrest, court appearances, and long-term consequences, including a criminal record.

Examples of Criminal Traffic Violations:

Operating Under the Influence (OUI): Massachusetts uses the term OUI instead of DUI. This charge can involve alcohol or drugs and carries significant legal consequences, especially for repeat offenses.
Reckless or negligent driving: Includes actions that show disregard for the safety of others, such as excessive speeding or aggressive maneuvers.
Driving with a suspended or revoked license: Operating a vehicle while your driving privileges are restricted is a criminal offense.

Possible Outcomes:

Criminal charges and a permanent record
Mandatory court appearance and legal proceedings
Fines, probation, or jail time depending on severity
Revocation or long-term suspension of your driver’s license

Due to the serious nature of these charges, individuals facing a criminal traffic violation are encouraged to understand their rights and seek legal assistance if needed.

Moving vs. Non-Moving Violations

Traffic violations in Massachusetts are further categorized into moving and non-moving offenses. This distinction plays a key role in determining how the violation impacts your driving record, insurance rates, and potential penalties.

Moving Violations in Massachusetts:

A moving violation in Massachusetts involves any offense committed while the vehicle is in motion. These violations are more likely to be reported to insurance companies and may carry higher penalties.

Examples: speeding, running a red light, unsafe lane changes, failure to stop for a school bus.

Non-Moving Traffic Offenses:

A non-moving traffic offense is typically related to parking, documentation, or equipment issues while the vehicle is stationary.

Examples: illegal parking, expired registration, broken tail lights, or expired inspection sticker.

Why the Distinction Matters:

Insurance Impact: Moving violations often result in increased premiums, while non-moving violations usually do not.
Driving Record: Accumulating multiple moving violations can lead to license suspensions or mandatory driver retraining programs.
Legal Consequences: Moving violations may escalate into criminal charges if they involve reckless behavior or repeated offenses.

How your violation is classified can help you determine the best way to respond—whether it’s paying a fine, requesting a hearing, or seeking legal help.

Traffic Violation Penalties and Consequences

Massachusetts drivers who receive a traffic ticket may face a range of consequences beyond just paying a fine. Whether the violation is minor or serious, it can affect your driving record, license status, and even your auto insurance premiums. The potential penalties and long-term implications can help you make informed decisions about how to respond to a citation and avoid repeat violations.

Fines and Fees

When you receive a traffic citation in Massachusetts, you’re generally required to pay a base fine, along with additional fees that vary depending on the type of violation and the court’s involvement.

Base Fine and Surcharges

For civil motor vehicle infractions (CMVIs), such as speeding or running a red light, the base fine often starts at $50.
For speeding violations, an additional $10 per mile over the posted speed limit is typically added.
A $50 head injury surcharge applies to most traffic citations to support medical trauma centers.
A court filing fee (typically $25–$50) may be added if you choose to appeal or request a hearing.

These fines must be paid by the due date indicated on the ticket, usually within 20 days.

Late Payment Consequences

If you fail to pay traffic ticket fines in MA on time:

Your driver’s license may be suspended.
You could incur additional penalties or reinstatement fees.
Unpaid tickets may prevent you from renewing your vehicle registration or driver’s license.

Taking care of fines promptly helps you avoid further financial and legal complications.

License Points System

Keywords: MA license points, surchargeable events

Massachusetts uses a surchargeable events system, which is similar to a point-based system. Every qualifying traffic offense is recorded on your driving record and may be classified as a surchargeable event by the Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles (RMV).

How the System Works

Each moving violation or at-fault accident counts as one surchargeable event. Examples include:

Speeding
Reckless or negligent operation
Failure to yield or stop

These events remain on your record and can lead to mandatory driving courses or license suspensions.

Thresholds for Suspension

The RMV imposes penalties based on the number of events within a certain time period:

3 surchargeable events in 2 years: Mandatory completion of a Driver Retraining Program.
7 surchargeable events in 3 years: An automatic 60-day license suspension.
3 major violations or 12 minor ones in 5 years: Triggers a habitual traffic offender status, leading to a 4-year license suspension.

Tracking your driving history and avoiding repeat offenses is essential to keeping your driving privileges intact.

Insurance Impact

Beyond court penalties and license consequences, traffic tickets in Massachusetts often have a financial impact on your auto insurance premiums.

Premium Increases After Violations

Insurance companies typically review your driving record when determining rates. If you’ve received a traffic ticket:

You may see an increase in your premium at your next policy renewal.
Rates can rise more significantly for serious violations such as DUI, reckless driving, or multiple speeding offenses.

Even minor violations, if repeated, can lead to long-term insurance cost increases.

High-Risk Driver Classification

If your driving record shows multiple surchargeable events or at-fault accidents:

Your insurer may label you a high-risk driver.
You could be moved to the Massachusetts Automobile Insurance Plan (MAIP)—a pool for high-risk drivers with higher premiums and fewer options.

Maintaining a clean driving record is one of the best ways to control insurance costs over time.

Ticketing and Citation Process in Massachusetts

Receiving a traffic citation in Massachusetts can be stressful and confusing, especially if you’re unsure of your rights or the steps to take. Whether it’s a speeding ticket or a moving violation, understanding how the citation process works in Massachusetts helps you respond on time and avoid further penalties.

What Happens When You’re Pulled Over

When you’re pulled over in MA, a police officer has the legal authority to issue a citation if they observe a violation of traffic laws. This process begins with a traffic stop, where the officer may ask for your driver’s license, vehicle registration, and proof of insurance. Remain calm, courteous, and follow instructions carefully during this interaction.

If the officer believes a law was broken, they’ll issue a Massachusetts Uniform Citation, which serves as a formal notice of the alleged offense. The citation typically includes:

The offense code and description of the violation
The location and date of the incident
The officer’s badge number and signature
Your vehicle information and driver’s license number
Three options to respond:
1. Pay the fine (admit responsibility)
2. Request a hearing (contest the citation)
3. Apply for a hearing on civil responsibility only (admit to the offense but explain mitigating circumstances)

Your response must follow the instructions on the back of the citation and be submitted within the given deadline—typically 20 days from the issue date. Failure to respond may result in additional fines, license suspension, or a default judgment.

Your Traffic Citation

Each Massachusetts traffic ticket contains detailed information that can help you understand the violation and determine your next steps. These details are also reflected in Traffic Court Records, which document how each case is handled through the court system. If you’ve misplaced the physical copy, you can use the Massachusetts traffic ticket lookup feature on the official Mass.gov website to retrieve details online using your citation number or license plate.

Here’s what’s typically included on your citation:

Offense Code & Description: This refers to the specific traffic law allegedly violated (e.g., speeding, red light, improper passing).
Court Jurisdiction: Indicates which district court is responsible for handling your case. This is important if you choose to contest the citation.
Fine Amount: The total cost you must pay if you choose not to contest the ticket. Note that certain violations, such as speeding, may have variable fines depending on the speed recorded.
Deadline to Respond: Most citations must be acted upon within 20 days. Failing to respond in time may result in license suspension or added penalties.

To protect your driving record, it’s important to respond promptly and retain a copy of any documents submitted. In some cases, you may also want to consult with a traffic attorney, especially if the ticket could result in significant fines, increased insurance premiums, or license points.

Responding to a Traffic Ticket in Massachusetts

Getting a traffic ticket in Massachusetts can be stressful, especially if you’re unsure how to respond. Fortunately, you have several clear options: pay the fine, request a hearing, or seek legal help if the situation is complex. Each route can help you make an informed decision and potentially reduce fines, avoid license points, or even dismiss the ticket.

Pay the Ticket

Paying a traffic ticket in Massachusetts means you are accepting responsibility for the offense and waiving your right to a hearing. This is often referred to as “pleading no contest.”

How to Pay

There are three convenient ways to pay your Massachusetts traffic ticket:

Online: Visit the Massachusetts RMV’s online ticket payment portal and enter your citation number and vehicle registration info. Most major credit cards are accepted.
By Mail: Detach the payment coupon from your ticket and mail it with a check or money order (payable to the Commonwealth of Massachusetts) to the address listed.
In Person: Pay at select RMV service centers. It’s best to verify service hours and accepted payment methods beforehand.

Consequences of Pleading “No Contest”

While paying the ticket is often the fastest way to resolve it, doing so can result in:

Points on your driving record
Increased insurance premiums
In some cases, license suspension (especially if you have prior offenses)

Once paid, the ticket is final—you cannot later request a hearing or contest it.

Request a Hearing

If you believe the citation was issued in error or if there are mitigating circumstances, you have the right to contest it by requesting a hearing. This must be done within 20 days of the ticket’s issuance.

Civil Infractions vs. Criminal Violations

Most traffic tickets in Massachusetts are civil motor vehicle infractions (e.g., speeding, improper lane changes). These can be challenged in a civil hearing at a local district court.

Criminal motor vehicle violations—like reckless driving or operating under the influence—require a court appearance and may result in a criminal record.

How to File a Hearing Request

Mark the “Request a Hearing” box on your citation.
Mail it (or submit it in person) to the address on the ticket along with a $25 filing fee.
You will receive a hearing notice by mail, informing you of the time and location.

What to Expect at the Hearing

The officer who issued the citation may attend.
You’ll be allowed to present your case, submit evidence (photos, diagrams, etc.), and call witnesses.
A magistrate or judge will make a decision immediately or notify you afterward by mail.

Even if you lose, you still may request a judge’s review, depending on the nature of the offense.

Hire a Traffic Attorney (When to Consider It)

Some situations are more serious and may require legal representation. Hiring a Massachusetts traffic lawyer can help you build a stronger defense and potentially reduce penalties.

When Legal Help is Worth Considering

DUIs or OWIs: Operating under the influence has serious criminal and license consequences.
License suspension risk: If you already have multiple violations on your record.
Accidents involving injuries or property damage
Commercial drivers who risk job-related consequences.

Cost-Benefit Analysis

Hiring a lawyer may involve upfront costs, but the benefits can include:

Reducing or dismissing fines
Preventing insurance rate increases
Avoiding license points or suspension
Minimizing time spent in court

Most attorneys offer free or low-cost consultations. In complex or high-stakes cases, the long-term savings and legal protection may outweigh the cost of representation.

License Suspension and Reinstatement in Massachusetts

Losing your driver’s license in Massachusetts can disrupt everyday life—affecting your ability to get to work, school, or handle personal responsibilities. The reasons for suspension and the process to reinstate your driving privileges can help you navigate the system more efficiently. Whether your license was suspended due to points, an OUI, or unpaid fines, knowing your legal options under Massachusetts law is essential.

Reasons for Suspension

The Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles (RMV) can suspend a driver’s license for a variety of reasons. In some cases, suspensions happen immediately after an offense. In others, they may result from a history of repeated violations.

Common License Suspension Reasons in MA

Points Accumulation: Massachusetts uses a point system to track driving offenses. Accumulating too many points from speeding, reckless driving, or other moving violations can lead to a suspension.
Operating Under the Influence (DUI/OUI): Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs results in immediate suspension, with longer penalties for repeat offenders.
Failure to Pay Fines or Surcharges: Unpaid parking tickets, court fees, or insurance surcharges can lead to suspension.
Driving Without Insurance: Operating a motor vehicle without valid insurance is a serious offense and often results in an automatic suspension.
Failure to Appear in Court or Respond to Citations: Ignoring a summons or citation can result in both license and registration suspension.

Immediate vs. Progressive Suspensions

Immediate Suspension: Some violations, such as an OUI or operating without insurance, trigger automatic suspension.
Progressive Suspension: Accumulating multiple minor violations or points over time can result in progressive penalties, including license suspension.

The reason for your suspension is the first step toward resolving it and avoiding future penalties.

Reinstatement Process

Once your suspension period has ended—or you’ve met certain legal or administrative conditions—you may be eligible to reinstate your driver’s license in Massachusetts. The reinstatement process varies depending on the reason for suspension and your driving history.

General Requirements for Reinstatement

Paying Reinstatement Fees: Most drivers are required to pay a reinstatement fee, which typically ranges from $100 to $1,200, depending on the offense.
Satisfying Court or RMV Requirements: This may include:
- Resolving unpaid fines or tickets.
- Completing required court programs.
- Providing proof of insurance coverage.
Attending an RMV Hearing: Some cases, such as habitual traffic offender status or DUI-related suspensions, require a formal hearing at the RMV. You may need to present documentation, character references, or proof of compliance.
Submitting an SR-22 Certificate (in certain cases): This is a certificate of insurance that proves you carry the minimum required coverage.

Defensive Driving Courses

In many situations, especially for those with multiple violations or point suspensions, completing a state-approved driver retraining course can help reduce penalties or qualify you for early reinstatement.

Offered by the National Safety Council, the course typically lasts 8 hours and covers safe driving behavior and traffic law education.
Completion must be reported to the RMV, either electronically or via certificate submission.

Steps to Reinstate a Suspended License in MA

Review the Suspension Notice: It includes specific instructions, reasons for suspension, and conditions for reinstatement.
Visit the RMV Website or Service Center: Some reinstatements can be processed online, while others may require an in-person appointment.
Pay All Fees and Submit Required Documents: Make sure to keep receipts and copies of all materials submitted.
Confirm License Reinstatement Status: You can check your status through the Massachusetts RMV online portal or by calling their support line.

Taking the right steps promptly not only helps you regain your driving privileges but also prevents additional fines or complications.

Special Cases and High-Risk Violations

Certain traffic offenses in Massachusetts are treated with heightened severity due to the risks they pose to public safety. These high-risk violations may carry heavier penalties, including criminal charges, license suspensions, and long-term consequences. These offenses—particularly those involving OUI, reckless driving, or lack of insurance—can help individuals navigate the legal system more confidently and responsibly.

DUI/OUI Offenses

In Massachusetts, Operating Under the Influence—commonly referred to as DUI (Driving Under the Influence) in other states—is a serious criminal offense. The legal Blood Alcohol Content limit is 0.08% for most drivers, 0.04% for commercial drivers, and 0.02% for drivers under 21.

Penalties for First-Time Offenders:

Up to 2.5 years in jail
Fines between $500 and $5,000
A one-year license suspension (with possible hardship license options)

Penalties for Repeat Offenders:

Longer jail terms
Higher fines (up to $25,000 for a fifth offense)
Multi-year or lifetime license suspensions
Mandatory alcohol education or treatment programs

The court process typically involves arraignment, pre-trial hearings, and—if not resolved—trial. Conviction can lead to a permanent criminal record. In many cases, individuals may also face administrative penalties from the Registry of Motor Vehicles (RMV), including ignition interlock device requirements.

Driving Without Insurance

In Massachusetts, all drivers are required by law to carry minimum auto insurance coverage. Failing to do so can result in severe legal consequences.

Penalties Include:

Fines between $500 and $5,000
Up to one year in jail
Driver’s license suspension for up to 60 days (first offense) or longer for repeated violations

Police officers may issue a “no insurance” ticket if proof of insurance is not shown during a traffic stop or accident. Acceptable documentation typically includes:

A valid insurance card
A digital insurance confirmation (on an app or email)
Direct confirmation from the insurance company (in disputed cases)

Failing to provide valid proof may result in vehicle impoundment or additional fees to reinstate your license and registration.

Reckless or Negligent Operation

Reckless driving—officially termed negligent operation of a motor vehicle in Massachusetts—occurs when a driver operates a vehicle in a way that endangers the safety of others. Examples may include excessive speeding, aggressive lane changes, racing, or ignoring traffic signals.

This offense is considered a criminal charge, not just a traffic violation.

Possible Penalties:

Up to 2 years in jail
Fines up to $200
License suspension of up to 60 days (first offense), and one year for subsequent offenses
Mandatory court hearings, often in district court

The court evaluates the facts of the case, including witness statements, police reports, and any resulting injuries or property damage. A conviction for reckless driving can remain on a criminal record and influence insurance rates or future legal outcomes.

RMV Records and Surchargeable Events

Your driving history is essential, especially when it comes to managing insurance costs and maintaining a clean record. In Massachusetts, the Registry of Motor Vehicles (RMV) maintains detailed driving records that include surchargeable events—incidents that can impact your auto insurance premiums. Learning how these events are recorded and how to check your RMV record can help you stay informed and proactive.

What Is a Surchargeable Event?

MA RMV surchargeable events are driving-related offenses that are reported to the Massachusetts RMV and shared with insurance companies. These events can include:

Traffic violations such as speeding, running a red light, or texting while driving
Accidents where you are found at fault
Criminal motor vehicle offenses, like operating under the influence (OUI)
License-related issues, including driving with a suspended license

Once an event is reported, it becomes part of your driving history and may be used by insurance providers to calculate risk. Insurers can apply a surcharge—an additional cost—on your premium based on the type and frequency of these events.

Surchargeable events typically remain on your driving record for six years, although the duration can vary depending on the severity and nature of the offense. Multiple violations within a short timeframe may also lead to RMV-imposed penalties, such as mandatory driver retraining or license suspension.

Accessing and Cleaning Your Driving Record

Keeping track of your driving history through a Massachusetts driving record check helps you understand where you stand—and can allow you to correct errors or take steps to improve your record.

Requesting Your RMV History

You can request a copy of your driving record directly from the Massachusetts RMV. Options include:

Online: Request and download your certified or unattested driving history.
By Mail or In Person: Submit a completed request form along with payment.

There are two types of records:

Unattested driving record – for personal review
Certified driving record – often used in legal or official matters

How Long Offenses Stay on Record

Most surchargeable events remain on your Massachusetts driving record for six years, though some serious offenses may be noted longer. The RMV uses this data to determine license status, while insurance companies use it for premium assessment.

While you cannot erase surchargeable events before their expiration period, avoiding further violations and completing driver retraining (when applicable) may help prevent additional penalties or license actions.

How to Avoid Traffic Violations

Staying safe on the road and avoiding traffic violations in Massachusetts is not just about obeying the law—it’s also about protecting yourself, your passengers, and others. Learning the most common triggers for traffic stops and adopting safe driving habits can go a long way in helping drivers avoid a speeding ticket in MA and reduce the risk of accidents.

Smart Driving Tips to Avoid Violations

Whether you’re commuting daily or driving occasionally, here are some effective tips to improve driver safety in MA:

Know the Speed Limits: Speed limits vary across Massachusetts cities and highways. Always watch for posted signs, and reduce speed in school zones, neighborhoods, and construction areas.
Avoid Distractions: Texting, using GPS apps without voice commands, or adjusting music while driving can lead to distracted driving violations.
Stay Alert: Be aware of your surroundings, anticipate other drivers’ actions, and avoid aggressive driving behavior such as tailgating or quick lane changes.
Use Signals and Follow Rules: Failing to use turn signals or ignoring stop signs can result in citations. Always obey traffic signals, yield signs, and right-of-way laws.
Never Drive Under the Influence: Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs is a serious offense with severe penalties in Massachusetts.

Practicing defensive driving doesn’t just prevent tickets—it helps save lives.

Defensive Driving Courses: A Helpful Option

Massachusetts drivers can voluntarily enroll in a defensive driving course, which may offer benefits such as:

Improving Driving Skills: Courses teach advanced techniques to identify and avoid hazards.
Point Reduction Opportunities: In some cases, completing a course may help reduce accumulated driving record points or lessen insurance impacts (depending on insurer policy).
Court Consideration: If you’ve received a minor violation, a judge may consider course completion favorably when deciding penalties.

Before enrolling, be sure the course is approved by the Massachusetts Registry of Motor Vehicles (RMV), and confirm with your insurance provider whether any benefits apply.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you’ve received a traffic ticket in Massachusetts, it’s natural to have questions about what it means for your driving record and what steps you can take next. State traffic laws help you respond effectively and avoid long-term penalties.

How many points does a speeding ticket add in Massachusetts?

Massachusetts does not use a traditional point system. Instead, it applies the Safe Driver Insurance Plan (SDIP), which classifies violations like speeding as surchargeable events. While you won’t get points, a speeding ticket can raise your insurance rates and appear on your driving record. For example, speeding more than 10 mph over the limit may lead to a fine and possibly a driver retraining course depending on your history.

Can I contest a ticket without going to court?

Yes, you can challenge many civil traffic citations in Massachusetts without going to court. To do this, return the citation by mail within 20 days, requesting a hearing. The court will schedule a session where you can explain your side. In some areas, you may even attend the hearing virtually or by phone, making the process more accessible and efficient.

What happens if I ignore a traffic ticket?

Ignoring a traffic ticket can result in a suspended driver’s license and additional fees. If you don’t pay or respond within 20 days, the RMV may take enforcement action, and a default judgment could be issued. Your license and registration renewals may be blocked until the issue is resolved. It’s best to act quickly to prevent unnecessary complications.

Will a traffic ticket appear on my criminal record?

Most traffic tickets in Massachusetts are civil violations and do not show up on a criminal record. Offenses like speeding or running a red light stay on your RMV driving history but aren’t criminal. However, more serious violations—such as OUI or operating after suspension—are criminal and can appear on a background check. It’s important to know the difference.

How long do violations stay on my record in MA?

Traffic violations generally stay on your Massachusetts driving record for six years. While they remain visible to the RMV, their impact on your insurance or license status may decrease over time. Accumulating violations, however, can lead to license suspensions or other penalties. Staying aware of your record helps you maintain good standing as a driver.