The New Brunswick Point System Explained: A Guide to a Clean Record
As a new driver in New Brunswick, one of the most important things to protect is your driving record. The province uses a demerit point system to track driving offenses and identify high-risk drivers. Understanding how this system works is crucial, as accumulating too many points can lead to serious consequences, including the suspension of your license. This guide will explain the New Brunswick point system, helping you keep your record clean from the very start.
What is the Demerit Point System?
The demerit point system is a way for the Registrar of Motor Vehicles to monitor a driver's behavior on the road. When you are convicted of a moving traffic violation, you receive a specific number of demerit points on your driving record in addition to any fines. These points stay on your record for two years from the date of conviction.
How Demerit Points are Assigned
The number of points you receive depends on the severity of the offense. Here are some common traffic violations and their corresponding demerit points in New Brunswick:
| Demerit Points | Offense |
|---|---|
| 10 Points | Failing to stop for a police officer |
| 6 Points | Driving carelessly or without due care and attention |
| 5 Points | Failing to stop for a school bus with its red lights flashing |
| 5 Points | Speeding by 30 km/h or more over the posted limit |
| 4 Points | Following too closely (tailgating) |
| 3 Points | Speeding by up to 29 km/h over the posted limit |
| 3 Points | Failing to yield the right-of-way |
| 3 Points | Failing to report a collision |
| 2 Points | Making an improper turn |
| 2 Points | Failing to signal |
| 2 Points | Unnecessary noise (e.g., squealing tires) |
The Consequences of Accumulating Points
The consequences for accumulating demerit points are different for fully licensed drivers and those in the Graduated Driver Licensing (GDL) program.
For Fully Licensed Drivers (Class 5)
- Warning Letter: If you accumulate 6 demerit points, you will receive a warning letter from the Registrar of Motor Vehicles.
- License Suspension: If you accumulate 10 demerit points, your driver's license will be suspended. The length of the suspension depends on your previous record.
For GDL Drivers (Class 7, Level I and II)
The rules are much stricter for new drivers in the GDL program.
- Warning Letter: A warning letter is sent when a GDL driver accumulates 4 demerit points.
- License Suspension and Program Reset: If a GDL driver accumulates 6 or more points, their license will be suspended. More importantly, upon reinstatement, they will be moved back to the very beginning of the GDL program. This means any time spent in Level I or II is lost, and they must start the 24-month process all over again. This is a significant penalty designed to reinforce the importance of safe driving for new licensees.
The Financial Impact of Demerit Points
Beyond the risk of license suspension, demerit points can also have a significant financial impact. Your insurance provider will have access to your driving record, and accumulating points will likely lead to a substantial increase in your insurance premiums. A driver with multiple convictions is considered high-risk, and this will be reflected in the cost of their coverage.
How to Keep a Clean Driving Record
The best way to avoid demerit points is to be a safe and responsible driver at all times.
- Know the Rules: Thoroughly understand and obey all traffic laws, signs, and signals.
- Drive Defensively: Always be aware of your surroundings, anticipate potential hazards, and leave a safe following distance.
- Avoid Distractions: Put your phone away and minimize other distractions while driving.
- Manage Your Speed: Always drive at a speed that is safe for the current road and weather conditions, and never exceed the posted limit.
- Stay Calm: Avoid aggressive driving behaviors like tailgating or weaving through traffic.
By making safety your top priority, you can easily avoid accumulating demerit points and enjoy the benefits of a clean driving record, including lower insurance rates and the peace of mind that comes with being a responsible driver.
