Ontario's Demerit Point System Explained: A Guide for New Drivers
As a new driver in Ontario, your focus is on learning the rules of the road and gaining experience. An equally important part of this process is understanding the consequences of breaking those rules. Ontario uses a demerit point system to track driving convictions, and for new drivers with a G1 or G2 license, this system is particularly strict.
Accumulating demerit points can lead to warning letters, license suspensions, and skyrocketing insurance rates. This guide will explain how the system works, the specific penalties for new drivers, and how you can protect your license.
How the Demerit Point System Works
When you are convicted of a moving traffic violation, demerit points are added to your driving record. A conviction happens when you pay a ticket, plead guilty, or are found guilty in court.
- Points stay on your record for two years from the date the offense was committed.
- Points are a provincial system; they do not get added for parking tickets or photo radar tickets.
- If you are an Ontario driver convicted of an offense in another Canadian province, the U.S. states of New York or Michigan, the demerit points will be added to your Ontario record.
Common Offenses and Their Point Values
The number of points assigned depends on the severity of the offense.
| Demerit Points | Common Offenses |
|---|---|
| 7 Points | Failing to remain at the scene of a collision; Failing to stop for police |
| 6 Points | Careless driving; Racing/Stunt driving; Speeding 50 km/h or more over the limit |
| 5 Points | Failing to stop for a school bus with its red lights flashing |
| 4 Points | Speeding 30-49 km/h over the limit; Following too closely (tailgating) |
| 3 Points | Speeding 16-29 km/h over the limit; Improper passing; Failing to yield right-of-way |
| 2 Points | Improper turns; Failing to signal; Disobeying signs; Failing to wear a seatbelt |
The Consequences: Why New Drivers Must Be Extra Careful
The penalties for accumulating demerit points are much more severe for G1 and G2 drivers than for those with a full G license.
Penalties for G1 and G2 Drivers:
- 2 to 5 points: You will be sent a warning letter from the Ministry of Transportation.
- 6 to 8 points: You will be sent a second warning letter, strongly encouraging you to improve your driving habits.
- 9 or more points: Your license will be suspended for 30 days. You will receive a letter telling you the date your suspension begins and you must surrender your license. Failure to do so can result in a longer suspension and even jail time.
After the 30-day suspension, your record will be reduced to 4 points. If you reach 9 points again, the suspension will be for 60 days.
Escalating Penalties for Novice Drivers
On top of the demerit point system, G1 and G2 drivers are also subject to "escalating penalties" for certain offenses. If you are convicted of any of the following, you will face an automatic license suspension in addition to any other fines or points:
- Any single traffic ticket that carries 4 or more demerit points (e.g., speeding 30 km/h over the limit, stunt driving, following too closely).
- Violating any G1 or G2 condition (e.g., zero BAC, passenger limits).
The penalties are:
- First offense: 30-day license suspension.
- Second offense: 90-day license suspension.
- Third offense: You will lose your G1/G2 license entirely and must start over from the beginning.
Demerit Points vs. Insurance Rates
This is a common point of confusion. Insurance companies do not set their rates based on the number of demerit points you have. They set rates based on the number and severity of convictions on your record. A single conviction for a minor offense like speeding 15 km/h over the limit (2 points) will likely raise your rates. A conviction for a major offense like stunt driving (6 points) will raise them dramatically or could even make you uninsurable.
How to Keep Your Record Clean
The best way to manage the demerit point system is to avoid getting points in the first place.
- Obey Speed Limits: Speeding is the most common traffic ticket issued.
- Drive Defensively: Always be aware of your surroundings, leave a safe following distance, and avoid aggressive driving.
- Know Your G1/G2 Restrictions: Follow the rules for your license level to the letter.
- Stay Focused: Avoid all distractions, especially your cell phone. Distracted driving convictions carry demerit points and hefty fines.
By making safety your priority, you can protect your license, keep your insurance rates down, and build a foundation for a lifetime of responsible driving.
