The Nunavut Demerit Point System Explained: How to Keep a Clean Driving Record
As a driver in Nunavut, your license is a privilege that comes with the great responsibility of driving safely. To encourage and enforce road safety, the Government of Nunavut uses a demerit point system to track driving convictions. Understanding how this system works is essential for all drivers, especially new ones in the Graduated Driver Licensing (GDL) program, as accumulating too many points can lead to serious consequences, including license suspension.
This guide will break down the Nunavut demerit point system, explaining how points are assigned, what happens when they add up, and how you can maintain a clean and safe driving record.
What is the Purpose of the Demerit Point System?
The demerit point system is a tool used by the Registrar of Motor Vehicles to identify drivers who repeatedly violate traffic laws. The system isn't designed as a punishment in itself—the fines from the traffic ticket serve that purpose. Instead, the points create a formal record. If a driver accumulates too many points in a short period, it signals to the Registrar that intervention, such as a warning or suspension, may be necessary to improve that driver's behavior and protect public safety.
Points are added to your driving record after you are convicted of a moving traffic violation (i.e., after you pay the fine or are found guilty in court). These points remain on your active record for two years from the date of the conviction.
How Demerit Points Are Assigned
The number of points you receive is based on the seriousness of the traffic offense. More dangerous actions carry a higher point value.
Here are some common traffic violations and their corresponding demerit point values in Nunavut:
| Demerit Points | Common Offenses |
|---|---|
| 6 Points | Failing to remain at the scene of an accident |
| 6 Points | Careless driving |
| 6 Points | Racing or stunt driving |
| 6 Points | Failing to stop for a school bus with its red lights flashing |
| 5 Points | Failing to yield to a pedestrian in a crosswalk |
| 4 Points | Following too closely (tailgating) |
| 3 Points | Speeding (by 16 km/h to 30 km/h over the limit) |
| 3 Points | Failing to yield the right-of-way |
| 2 Points | Failing to stop at a stop sign or red light |
| 2 Points | Improper turns or failing to signal |
| 2 Points | Failing to wear a seatbelt |
This is not a complete list. A full schedule is available in the Nunavut Driver's Manual.
The Consequences of Accumulating Points
The actions taken by the Registrar of Motor Vehicles depend on how many points you have accumulated within a two-year period.
Consequences for New Drivers (GDL Program - Class 7 and 5P)
The system is much stricter for new drivers to correct unsafe behaviour early.
- 4 or more points: As a Class 7 learner driver, if you accumulate 4 or more demerit points, your license will automatically be suspended for 6 months.
- 6 or more points: A driver in the GDL program (Class 7 or 5P) who accumulates 6 or more demerit points will have their license suspended. This can also extend the time you must spend in the GDL program.
Consequences for Fully Licensed Drivers (Class 5)
- Warning Letter: Drivers who accumulate a certain number of points will receive a warning letter in the mail, advising them to improve their driving habits.
- 10 or more points: A fully licensed driver who accumulates 10 or more points will likely face a license suspension. A conviction for losing your license due to too many demerit points can cost $100 to get it reinstated, in addition to any other fines.
The Impact on Your Insurance Premiums
This is a critical, often misunderstood consequence. Insurance companies do not set your rates based directly on demerit points. They set your rates based on the number and severity of convictions on your driving record.
A conviction for a minor offense with 2 or 3 points will likely cause your insurance premiums to increase. A conviction for a major offense with many points (like careless driving or failing to stop for a school bus) will cause your rates to skyrocket and could even make it difficult for you to find insurance coverage at all.
How to Keep a Clean Driving Record
The best strategy is to avoid getting convictions and points in the first place.
- Obey All Traffic Laws: This includes speed limits, stop signs, and traffic lights.
- Drive Defensively: Always be aware of your surroundings, leave a safe following distance (the two-second rule is a good minimum), and avoid aggressive behaviors.
- Stay Focused: Avoid all distractions, especially using a cell phone while driving. The Traffic Safety Act includes a ban on using handheld devices while driving.
- Never Drive Impaired: The penalties for impaired driving are the most severe, both legally and for your driving record.
By making safety your priority every time you get behind the wheel, you can protect your license, your wallet, and the safety of everyone on the roads of Nunavut.
