What New Drivers in Canada Should Know About Demerit Points

Penalty Points for New Drivers in Canada. Image: KnowInsiders

New drivers in Canada face additional scrutiny and stricter rules under the country’s demerit point system. As a novice driver, accumulating penalty points too early in your driving career can result in license suspensions, higher insurance premiums, and long-term financial and legal challenges.

Read more: How to Check The Car Owner In Canada by License Plate Number

Special Regulations for New Drivers in Canada

Each Canadian province has a Graduated Licensing System (GLS) or a similar framework designed to ease new drivers into full driving privileges while maintaining road safety. Under these programs, new drivers often face lower thresholds for demerit point accumulation and harsher penalties

Ontario (G1 & G2 Drivers)

• New drivers are part of a graduated licensing system with G1 and G2 licenses

• G1/G2 drivers will face suspension if they accumulate 6 or more points

• Any driver who reaches 9 points is at risk of losing their license entirely

• Violations such as speeding, failing to stop at red lights, or seatbelt infractions can quickly add up

Source: Ontario Ministry of Transportation

British Columbia (L & N Drivers)

• Learner (L) and Novice (N) drivers accumulate points faster under the Graduated Licensing Program (GLP)

• Accumulating 4 or more points within 12 months may result in a driving prohibition

Source: ICBC - Driver Penalty Points

Québec (Probationary License)

• Drivers on a probationary license face suspension if they accumulate 4 or more points

• Alcohol tolerance is zero for new drivers, and any related infraction can result in an immediate suspension

Source: SAAQ - Demerit Points System

Each province has its own thresholds and penalties, but in general, new drivers operate under stricter guidelines than fully licensed drivers

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Common Violations Among New Drivers and How to Avoid Them

1. Speeding

• Many new drivers underestimate the risks of speeding

• Speeding 1-15 km/h over the limit may result in 3 points, while going 30 km/h over could result in a suspension

• How to avoid it: Always monitor speed limits, especially in school zones or construction areas

2. Distracted Driving (Phone Use)

• Using a phone while driving is one of the most common infractions

• A single distracted driving charge can result in 3 to 5 points depending on the province

• How to avoid it: Use hands-free devices or silence notifications before driving

Note: Distracted driving is one of the leading causes of accidents among Canadian drivers aged 16-24, according to Transport Canada

3. Failure to Obey Traffic Signs and Signals

• Rolling through stop signs or ignoring red lights is frequent among inexperienced drivers

• This can result in 3 to 4 points per infraction

• How to avoid it: Approach intersections carefully and always come to a complete stop when required

4. Seatbelt Violations

• Failing to wear a seatbelt or ensure passengers are buckled up can add 2 points

• How to avoid it: Make seatbelt checks part of your pre-drive routine

5. Following Too Closely (Tailgating)

• Novice drivers often misjudge stopping distances

• Tailgating can result in 4 points and is a leading cause of rear-end collisions

• How to avoid it: Maintain a safe following distance of at least 3 seconds

The Importance of Maintaining a Clean Driving Record

1. Prevent License Suspension

New drivers have significantly lower point thresholds. A few minor violations can add up quickly, leading to license suspensions and delays in progressing to a full license

2. Lower Insurance Premiums

A clean record helps secure lower insurance rates. Young drivers already face high premiums, and any demerit points can increase costs substantially. According to the Insurance Bureau of Canada, young drivers pay up to three times more than experienced drivers

3. Career Opportunities

For those considering careers in transportation, logistics, or any role that requires driving, a clean driving record is essential

4. Safety and Confidence

Driving safely builds confidence on the road and reduces the risk of accidents, protecting both the driver and others

Final Thoughts

New drivers in Canada need to be especially mindful of the demerit point system and the stricter penalties that apply to them. By understanding provincial rules, avoiding common infractions, and prioritizing safe driving habits, new drivers can protect their licenses, reduce financial costs, and develop responsible driving behaviors.

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