Ontario demerit points chart

Ontario demerit points chart

The number of demerit points depends on the type of violation. Some offences, like speeding just a little over the limit, might not seem like a big deal, but they can still add points to your record. More serious offences, like failing to stop for a school bus or careless driving or stunt driving add even more points. Here’s a breakdown using the Ontario demerit points chart:

Understanding the Ontario Demerit Points Chart: What Every Driver Should Know

Imagine driving down a quiet road on a sunny day. You feel the hum of the engine and the rhythm of the road beneath your tires. But then, out of nowhere, a small mistake—a glance at your phone, a slight increase in speed—could add points to your driving record. These points, called demerit points, may seem invisible at first, but they can pile up and eventually lead to serious penalties. In Ontario, knowing about the demerit points chart could save you a lot of trouble.

Let’s explore how the Ontario demerit points system works, what violations add points, and the penalties that come with them. Don’t worry—it’s not as complicated as it sounds. We’ll break it down and include a handy chart so you can see exactly what you need to avoid.

What Are Demerit Points?

In Ontario, drivers don’t “lose” points when they break the rules; instead, they gain points for traffic violations. Think of it like this: you start with a clean slate—zero points—and every time you’re convicted of a driving offence, you get a certain number of points added to your driving record.

The key thing to know is that these points stay on your record for two years. The more points you have, the closer you are to facing penalties. Too many points could mean losing your driver’s licence for a period of time.

How Do Demerit Points Add Up?

Every traffic offence adds a specific number of demerit points to your record. The more dangerous or reckless the action, the more points it carries. For example, if you fail to stop at the scene of a collision, it’s considered a serious offence, and you’ll receive 7 demerit points. On the other hand, a minor infraction like failing to signal before turning will get you 2 points.

What Happens If You Collect Too Many Points?

The real consequence of demerit points kicks in when you start to accumulate them. Depending on how many points are on your record, the penalties vary. Here's what you can expect:

For Full Licence Holders:

• 6 to 8 points: You’ll receive a warning letter, which is like a tap on the shoulder, reminding you to be cautious.
• 9 to 14 points: A second, more serious warning letter will arrive, urging you to improve your driving.
• 15 points or more: Your licence will be suspended for 30 days. Failing to surrender it could result in further suspension for up to two years.

For New Drivers:

If you’re a new driver (G1, G2, M1, M2, etc.), you face stricter rules:

• 2 to 5 points: You’ll get a warning letter. This is your chance to correct course before things get worse.
• 6 to 8 points: A second warning letter arrives, urging you to improve your driving.
• 9 points or more: Your licence will be suspended for 60 days. Not surrendering your licence when instructed can result in losing it for up to two years.

Escalating Penalties for New Drivers

As a new driver, you’re also subject to escalating penalties if you break certain rules. This means that for each offence you commit, the consequences get more severe. For instance, if you violate Ontario’s graduated licensing rules or commit an offence that results in four or more demerit points (such as careless driving or street racing), you face the following penalties:

• First offence: Licence suspended for 30 days.
• Second offence: Suspension extends to 90 days.
• Third offence: You lose your novice licence completely, forcing you to start the licensing process all over again.

What If Your Licence Gets Suspended?

If your licence is suspended due to demerit points, you won’t be able to drive legally for the duration of the suspension. Once your suspension ends, you may need to retake tests—vision, written, or road—to get your licence reinstated.

Once you get your licence back, your points will be reduced:

• Full licence holders will see their points drop to 7.
• New drivers will see them drop to 4.

But those points stick around for another two years, meaning any new offences could bring you closer to another suspension.

Out-of-Province Violations

What if you’re driving outside Ontario and commit a violation? Points from offences in other Canadian provinces, New York, or Michigan will still follow you back home. These offences include things like speeding, failing to stop at a stop sign, or even more serious crimes like dangerous driving.

Why Do Demerit Points Matter?

Demerit points aren't just about avoiding a licence suspension. They can affect your insurance premiums too. Insurance companies check your driving record, and a high number of points may suggest risky driving behavior, which could lead to higher rates.

Additionally, too many points may limit your driving privileges, making it more difficult to get around. Understanding the demerit points chart is essential for staying on top of your driving record and keeping your licence—and your freedom to drive—intact.

Conclusion: Protect Your Licence with TTAS

Understanding the Ontario demerit points chart is key to staying in control of your driving record, but sometimes even careful drivers can find themselves facing a traffic ticket. At TTAS, we specialize in helping drivers fight those tickets, saving you from costly insurance hikes and, more importantly, helping you keep your driver’s licence. Whether it’s a speeding ticket or a more serious offence, we’re here to make sure you get the best possible outcome. Don’t let a few points add up and put your driving privileges at risk—reach out to TTAS and let us help you keep your record clean.