License suspension based on points

The law provides for license suspension based on the number of remaining points on a driver’s license. When a driver commits certain specific violations and has fewer than 20 points at the time of the check, an additional suspension is applied.

The duration depends on the remaining points. If the driver has between 10 and 19 points, the license is suspended for 7 days. If the driver has fewer than 10 points, the suspension lasts 15 days.

If the violation results in a road accident, even without involving other people, the suspension period is doubled. This also applies when the driver leaves the road alone.

These rules also apply to drivers with foreign licenses who commit violations in Italy. An equivalent point system is used to determine the suspension.

Unlike standard suspensions, this short suspension does not require a decision by the Prefect. The license is withdrawn directly by the officer and kept by the police office, then returned after the suspension period. The period starts from the moment of withdrawal.

A temporary driving permit may be granted in specific cases and under strict conditions.

This measure applies only if the driver is identified at the time of the violation. If the license is not withdrawn immediately, the suspension starts from the notification of the violation report.

The suspension is recorded in the official driver database.

Driving during the suspension period is a serious offense and leads to heavy fines, vehicle immobilization, and, in repeated or severe cases, confiscation of the vehicle.

If the same violations are repeated within two years, this short suspension applies only if a more severe suspension is not already предусмотрена for those violations.

❓ Frequently asked questions

What is license suspension based on points?

License suspension based on points is regulated by Art. 218 ter of the Italian Road Code, within the chapter "VI. Offences and Sanctions". You'll find the complete explanation above with all the essential details to pass the Italian driving theory exam.

In which chapter of the Italian Road Code is Art. 218 ter?

Art. 218 ter of the Italian Road Code is in the chapter VI. Offences and Sanctions. You can read the original article on the official ACI portal at this link.

Is this topic important for the Italian driving licence exam?

Yes, all articles of the Italian Road Code may be subject to questions in the theory exam. To practice with real quiz questions on this topic, access our platform with 7,000+ official questions.