How Do Demerit Points Work in Ontario?
Ontario demerit points are added to your licence when you are convicted of certain driving offences. G1 and G2 drivers face stricter consequences: 9 demerit points triggers a licence suspension for novice drivers, compared to 15 for fully licensed drivers. Points are removed 2 years after the offence date.
Key Facts
- Speeding 16-29 km/h over limit: 3 points
- Speeding 30-49 km/h over limit: 4 points
- Speeding 50 km/h or more over limit: 6 points
- Running a red light: 3 points
- Failing to yield: 3 points
In this article
How Are Demerit Points Added?
According to the Ontario Ministry of Transportation, demerit points are added to your Ontario driving record when you are convicted of a driving offence, not when you are charged. If you pay a ticket without disputing it, that counts as a conviction. Points are added retroactively to the date of the offence, not the date of conviction. Points accumulate on your record and affect your standing with the MTO.
What Are Common Offences and Point Values?
Different offences carry different point values. Here are some of the most common.
- Speeding 16-29 km/h over limit: 3 points
- Speeding 30-49 km/h over limit: 4 points
- Speeding 50 km/h or more over limit: 6 points
- Running a red light: 3 points
- Failing to yield: 3 points
- Distracted driving (handheld device): 3 points
- Following too closely: 4 points
- Failing to stop for a school bus: 6 points
What Are the Thresholds for New Drivers?
Under Ontario's graduated licensing system, novice drivers face lower suspension thresholds than fully licensed drivers. If you hold a G1 or G2 and accumulate 9 or more demerit points, your licence is suspended. Between 6 and 8 points, you will receive a warning letter from the MTO. Fully licensed drivers face warnings at 9-14 points and suspension at 15 points.
How Long Do Demerit Points Stay on Your Record?
Demerit points remain on your driving record for 2 years from the date of the offence. After 2 years, they are automatically removed. However, your conviction record (the offence itself) remains longer for insurance purposes. Insurance companies can see your driving history for 3 to 6 years depending on the offence.
How Do You Protect Your Driving Record?
The most effective protection is driving safely and following all traffic laws. If you receive a ticket and believe it was issued incorrectly, you can dispute it in court. If you win, no points are added. Some drivers choose to take a driving improvement course after an offence, though this does not remove points in Ontario (unlike some other provinces). Keeping your demerit point count low keeps your insurance rates from rising.
Related Questions
What Are the Restrictions on a G2 Licence in Ontario?
G2 drivers must maintain a zero blood alcohol level (0.00 BAC), ensure all passengers wear seatbelts, and avoid handheld electronic devices. Drivers under 20 also face passenger limits between midnight and 5 AM. These restrictions remain until you pass the full G road test.
Read answerCan You Use Your Phone While Driving in Ontario?
No. Ontario's distracted driving law prohibits using handheld devices while driving, including smartphones, tablets, and handheld GPS units. Fines start at $615 for a first conviction and include 3 demerit points. Hands-free use through a mounted or Bluetooth device is permitted.
Read answerWhat Is Ontario's Zero Tolerance Law for New Drivers?
Ontario's zero tolerance law requires G1 and G2 drivers to have a blood alcohol level of exactly 0.00 when driving. Any detectable alcohol results in an immediate 24-hour roadside licence suspension and additional penalties. This is stricter than the 0.08 limit that applies to fully licensed drivers.
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