How Do Demerit Points Work?

Demerit points in Ontario are used to track and penalize unsafe driving behaviors. Here are some key facts about demerit points in Ontario:

​

1. Point System Overview

• Purpose: Demerit points are used to penalize drivers for traffic violations and to encourage safe driving. Points are added to your driving record when you are convicted of a traffic offense.

• Points Accumulation: Accumulating too many demerit points can lead to a driver’s license suspension or other penalties.

2. Points for Common Violations

• Speeding: Points vary based on how much you exceed the speed limit:

  • 1 to 15 km/h over: 2 points

  • 16 to 29 km/h over: 3 points

  • 30 to 49 km/h over: 4 points

  • 50 km/h or more over: 6 points

• Running a Red Light: 3 points

• Failure to Stop for School Bus: 6 points

• Driving Under the Influence (DUI): 6 points, along with potential criminal charges and significant fines

• Seat Belt Violations: 2 points

• Driving Without Insurance: 6 points

3. Accumulation and Consequences

• Points Threshold:

  • 6 to 8 Points: Drivers may receive a warning letter from the Ministry of Transportation (MTO).

  • 9 to 14 Points: Drivers may face a driver improvement interview or program.

  • 15 or More Points: A license suspension is likely. For a first offense, the suspension is typically 30 days. Repeated offenses can lead to longer suspensions or other penalties.

4. Point Reduction

• Point Reduction Program: Points can be reduced by taking a driver improvement course approved by the MTO. This can help lower your points and improve your driving record.

• Time-Based Reduction: Points remain on your record for 2 years from the date of the offense. After this period, they are automatically removed, provided no further violations occur.

5. Impact on Insurance

• Premium Increases: Accumulating demerit points can lead to increased insurance premiums, as insurers view drivers with points as higher risk.

• Insurance Companies: Insurers may request a copy of your driving record when determining your rates.

6. Driver's Record

• Record Access: Drivers can request a copy of their driving record from the MTO to check their demerit points and overall driving history.

• Record Keeping: Maintaining a clean driving record helps prevent accumulation of points and associated penalties.

7. Appeals and Disputes

• Challenging Points: If you believe points were added in error, you can challenge the ticket or violation through the court system. This involves contesting the ticket and providing evidence to support your case.

• Legal Advice: Seeking legal advice may be beneficial if you are facing multiple violations or a license suspension.

8. Driver Improvement

• Educational Programs: Ontario offers various driver improvement programs that can help address unsafe driving behaviors and potentially reduce points.

• Safe Driving Practices: Adhering to traffic laws, avoiding violations, and driving safely are the best ways to prevent accumulating demerit points.

9. Effect on New Drivers

• Graduated Licensing: New drivers, including those under the Graduated Licensing System (G1 and G2), must be particularly mindful of demerit points, as they can affect their progression to a full license.

10. Additional Penalties

• Criminal Charges: Some offenses that carry demerit points may also result in criminal charges or other legal consequences, such as fines or imprisonment.

• Vehicle Seizure: Severe or repeated violations, particularly those involving stunt driving or DUI, may result in vehicle impoundment in addition to demerit points.

 

Understanding these facts about demerit points can help you manage your driving record, avoid penalties, and maintain a clean driving history.