A ticket for exceeding the speed limit by 16 mph, for example, will remain on your driving record in Virginia for five years but only three years in California.

How does a speeding ticket affect your license points?

To determine driving eligibility, many states use a points system. These states penalize drivers who commit traffic violations with demerit points. The greater the infraction, the more points you will receive.

Although auto insurers do not solely base their pricing on demerit points, having multiple tickets will raise your car insurance rates. Demerit points can also affect how long your ticket stays on your driving record and, if you accumulate too many, can result in your license being suspended.

In Pennsylvania, for example, drivers who exceed the speed limit by 11-15 mph receive three points, while drivers who exceed the speed limit by 16-25 mph receive four points. After 12 months of no traffic violations, Pennsylvania removes three points. As a result, the more points you have, the longer it will take you to get a clean record.

Although your points will most likely be removed eventually, in some states, such as Nevada, the speeding ticket may remain on your permanent record even after the points are removed.

Speeding tickets and car insurance rates

On average, a speeding ticket will raise your auto insurance rates for one to three years. Time can vary depending on your company and state, so ask your agent how long you should expect higher rates to last. Remember that you will also lose any good driving discounts.

How to save on insurance after a speeding ticket

Your rates may rise as a result of a speeding ticket, but you can still negotiate a lower rate. Here are some suggestions for lowering your car insurance bill:

Shop around. If you've been caught speeding, compare car insurance rates so you're prepared if your rates do go up. Auto insurers differ in how much they raise rates after a speeding ticket, so shopping around is essential if you want a lower price.

Avoid further infractions on the road. DUIs and accidents, in addition to additional speeding tickets, can significantly raise your insurance bill. Not all insurers will raise rates in response to a single speeding ticket. However, after two or more incidents, you should expect to see an increase, so drive carefully to avoid any future traffic violations.

Consider taking a defensive driving course. Some insurance companies, such as American Family, Geico, and State Farm, will reduce your insurance premium if you take a defensive driving course. In New York, drivers who complete a course receive a 10% discount for up to three years.

Reduce your insurance coverage. If you're looking for the lowest possible rates, you could save money by purchasing the bare minimum of car insurance required to drive legally. However, think twice before reducing coverage. If you have a car loan or lease, you won't be able to reduce your coverage to the bare minimum because your lender will most likely require you to carry comprehensive and collision coverage. If you have minimal insurance, your insurance will be less expensive, but you may have to pay for theft or damage to your vehicle out of pocket.