The demerit point system

The demerit point system encourages drivers to improve their behavior and protects people from drivers who abuse the privilege of driving. Drivers convicted of driving-related offences have demerit points recorded on their records. Demerit points stay on your record for two years from the date of the offence. If you accumulate too many demerit points, your driver’s license can be suspended.

New drivers — Demerit Point System for Level One or Level Two Drivers

2 or more points

You will receive a warning letter.

6 points

You may have to attend an interview to discuss your record and give reasons why your license should not be suspended. If you do not go to the interview, your license may be suspended.

9 or more points

Your license will be suspended for 60 days from the date you surrender it to the Ministry of Transportation. You can lose your license for up to two years if you fail to surrender your license. After the suspension, the number of points on your record will be reduced to four. Any extra points could again bring you to the interview level. If you reach nine points again, your license may be suspended for six months.

As a Level One or Level Two driver, you will have your license suspended if you accumulate nine or more demerit points during a two-year period.

Fully licensed drivers — Demerit Point System for Fully Licensed Drivers

6 points

You will be told about your record and urged to improve your driving skills.

9 points

You may have to go to an interview to discuss your record and give reasons why your license should not be suspended. You may also have to complete a driver re-examination. If you fail this test, your license can be cancelled. If you fail to attend an interview, or fail to give good reasons for keeping your license, your license may be suspended.

15 points

Your license will be suspended for 30 days from the date you hand over your license to the Ministry of Transportation. You can lose your license for up to two years if you fail to surrender it. After the suspension, the number of points on your driver’s record will be reduced to seven. Any extra points could again bring you to the interview level. If you reach 15 points again, your license will be suspended for six months.