The Yukon Demerit Point System Explained: How to Keep a Clean Record
As a driver in the Yukon, your license is a privilege that comes with the great responsibility of driving safely. To encourage and enforce road safety, the Yukon government 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's Licence (GDL) program, as accumulating too many points can lead to serious consequences, including license suspension.
This guide will break down the Yukon 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 the Yukon:
| Demerit Points | Common Offenses |
|---|---|
| 6 Points | Failing to remain at the scene of an accident |
| 6 Points | Careless driving |
| 6 Points | Failing to stop for a school bus with its red lights flashing |
| 4 Points | Speeding (by 35 to 49 km/h over the limit) |
| 4 Points | Following too closely (tailgating) |
| 3 Points | Speeding (by 16 to 34 km/h over the limit) |
| 3 Points | Failing to yield the right-of-way |
| 3 Points | Distracted driving (using a hand-held electronic device) |
| 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 Yukon Driver's Basic Handbook.
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 Class 5 Novice)
The system is much stricter for new drivers to correct unsafe behaviour early.
- Warning Letter: Drivers in the GDL program who accumulate 4 demerit points will receive a warning letter in the mail, advising them to improve their driving habits.
- Interview & Possible Suspension: GDL drivers who accumulate 6 or more points will be required to attend an interview with the Registrar to discuss their driving record. Depending on the interview, their license may be suspended. This can also extend the time you must spend in the GDL program.
Consequences for Fully Licensed Drivers (Class 5)
- Warning Letter: Fully licensed drivers who accumulate 6 demerit points will receive a warning letter.
- Interview & Possible Suspension: Fully licensed drivers who accumulate 10 or more points will be required to attend an interview with the Registrar. Depending on the circumstances, their license may be suspended.
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. Distracted driving convictions carry both demerit points and hefty fines.
- 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 the Yukon.
