Getting a traffic ticket in Ontario can leave you wondering about more than just the fine. You may also be concerned about demerit points, your driving record, your licence and insurance rates.
The number of demerit points you receive depends on the specific offence and whether you are convicted. Different traffic offences carry different numbers of points, ranging from 2 points for some violations to 7 points for certain serious offences.
It is also important to understand that simply receiving a traffic ticket does not automatically mean demerit points are added to your record. Points are generally associated with a conviction for an offence that carries demerit points.
If you have received a ticket in Toronto or elsewhere in Ontario, understanding the potential consequences can help you make an informed decision about your next step.
What Are Demerit Points in Ontario?
Demerit points are part of Ontario’s system for monitoring driving behaviour. When a driver is convicted of certain offences under Ontario’s driving laws, demerit points can be added to their driving record.
The number of points depends on the offence.
For example, a conviction for a relatively minor offence may result in 2 or 3 points, while more serious offences can result in 6 or 7 points.
Demerit points are different from the fine associated with a traffic ticket. A ticket can have several potential consequences, including:
- A monetary fine
- Demerit points
- A conviction on your driving record
- Potential licence consequences
- Possible insurance implications
This is why it is important to consider more than just the amount of the fine when dealing with a traffic ticket.
How Many Demerit Points Can You Get for a Traffic Ticket?
The number of demerit points depends on the specific offence.
Some common examples include:
- 2 points: Certain offences such as improper turns or failing to signal
- 3 points: Certain speeding offences, stop-sign or traffic-light violations and some distracted driving convictions
- 4 points: Certain speeding offences and following too closely
- 6 points: Careless driving and certain serious speeding offences
- 7 points: Certain serious offences, including failing to remain at the scene of a collision
The exact number should always be confirmed based on the offence you have been charged with.
How Many Demerit Points Do You Get for a Speeding Ticket in Ontario?
Speeding tickets are among the most common traffic offences in Ontario, but not every speeding conviction carries the same number of demerit points.
The number of points depends on how far over the speed limit you were convicted of driving.
16 to 29 km/h Over the Speed Limit
A conviction for speeding 16 to 29 km/h over the limit generally carries 3 demerit points.
30 to 49 km/h Over the Speed Limit
A conviction for speeding 30 to 49 km/h over the limit generally carries 4 demerit points.
50 km/h or More Over the Speed Limit
Speeding 50 km/h or more over the limit can result in 6 demerit points.
Certain speeding situations can also have additional consequences, particularly where excessive speed is involved.
If you have received a speeding ticket, you can learn more about speeding ticket defence options before deciding how to proceed.
How Many Demerit Points Does Careless Driving Carry?
Careless driving is considered a serious driving offence in Ontario.
A conviction for careless driving carries 6 demerit points.
However, demerit points are not the only potential consequence. Depending on the circumstances, a careless driving conviction can have significant effects on your driving record, licence and insurance.
If you have been charged with careless driving, reviewing your options regarding careless driving charges in Ontario may be worthwhile before accepting the charge.
How Many Demerit Points Does Distracted Driving Carry?
Distracted driving can also result in demerit points.
For certain licensed drivers, a first conviction involving the prohibited use of a handheld device while driving can result in 3 demerit points, along with other penalties.
Subsequent convictions can involve more serious consequences.
If you have received a distracted driving ticket, understanding your options for fighting a distracted driving ticket may help you decide what to do next.
How Many Demerit Points Can Lead to a Licence Suspension?
The consequences of accumulating demerit points depend partly on the type of licence you hold.
For a fully licensed Ontario driver, accumulating 15 or more demerit points can lead to a licence suspension.
Ontario also has lower thresholds for novice drivers.
Full Licence Drivers
Full-licence drivers can receive warnings as their demerit points increase.
At higher levels, the Ministry of Transportation may require the driver to attend an interview to explain why their licence should not be suspended.
At 15 or more points, a driver’s licence can be suspended.
Novice Drivers
Novice drivers, including certain G1 and G2 licence holders, have stricter demerit-point thresholds.
A novice driver who reaches 9 or more demerit points can face a 60-day licence suspension.
For new drivers, even one traffic conviction can therefore have a more significant impact than they may expect.
Do Demerit Points Stay on Your Driving Record?
Demerit points do not remain on your record permanently.
In Ontario, demerit points remain on a driver’s record for two years from the offence date.
However, this does not necessarily mean that all consequences of a conviction disappear after two years.
A traffic conviction can remain relevant to your driving history and may also be considered by insurance companies.
For this reason, drivers should consider the overall impact of a conviction rather than looking only at how long the demerit points remain.
Does Every Traffic Ticket Add Demerit Points?
No.
Getting a traffic ticket does not automatically mean that demerit points will be added to your driving record.
The points are generally associated with a conviction for an offence that carries demerit points.
The specific offence matters.
For example, different offences can carry:
- 2 demerit points
- 3 demerit points
- 4 demerit points
- 6 demerit points
- 7 demerit points
This is why it is important to identify exactly what offence you have been charged with.
Can Demerit Points Affect Your Insurance?
Demerit points and insurance are two different issues, but they can both be important after a traffic conviction.
Insurance companies may consider a driver’s driving history and traffic convictions when assessing risk.
Depending on the offence and your insurance provider, a conviction could potentially contribute to higher insurance premiums.
This means that the financial impact of a traffic ticket may be much greater than the original fine.
If you are concerned about the potential consequences, speaking with a professional about traffic ticket defence in Toronto can help you understand your options.
What Should You Do If You Already Have Demerit Points?
If you already have demerit points and receive another traffic ticket, it is important to understand how another conviction could affect your driving record.
Consider the following:
- What offence are you charged with?
- How many demerit points does the offence carry?
- How many points are currently on your driving record?
- Do you have a full or novice licence?
- Could a conviction affect your licence?
- Could the conviction affect your insurance?
Do not assume that every traffic ticket has the same consequences.
If you are already close to a demerit-point threshold, another conviction could have a much greater impact on your driving privileges.
Can a Traffic Ticket Lawyer Help With Demerit Points?
A traffic ticket lawyer can review the circumstances surrounding your charge and explain the legal options available to you.
Depending on the circumstances, your lawyer may be able to challenge the charge or pursue another appropriate legal resolution.
Every case is different, and no lawyer can guarantee a particular outcome.
If you are concerned about the potential effect of a conviction on your driving record, speaking with Toronto traffic ticket lawyers may help you understand your options before making a decision.
Common Traffic Tickets and Demerit Points in Ontario
Here are some common examples of offences and their potential demerit points:
Speeding
Depending on the circumstances, speeding convictions can result in 3, 4 or 6 demerit points.
Stop Sign or Traffic Light Violation
Failing to obey a stop sign or traffic light can result in 3 demerit points upon conviction.
Careless Driving
Careless driving carries 6 demerit points upon conviction.
Distracted Driving
Certain distracted driving convictions can result in 3 demerit points for a first conviction.
H3: Failing to Remain
Failing to remain at the scene of a collision can result in 7 demerit points.
Frequently Asked Questions About Ontario Demerit Points
How many demerit points do you get for a traffic ticket in Ontario?
The number varies depending on the offence. Common traffic convictions can result in 2, 3, 4, 6 or 7 demerit points.
How long do demerit points stay on your record in Ontario?
Demerit points remain on your driving record for two years from the offence date.
How many demerit points can suspend your licence in Ontario?
For fully licensed drivers, 15 or more demerit points can lead to licence suspension. Novice drivers have lower thresholds.
Do I get demerit points immediately after receiving a ticket?
Generally, no. Demerit points are associated with a conviction for an offence that carries points. Receiving a ticket itself does not automatically add points to your record.
Can a traffic ticket affect my insurance?
Yes. A traffic conviction may affect how an insurance company assesses your driving history and risk. The exact impact depends on the offence and insurer.
What Happens If You Get a Traffic Ticket in Toronto?
Getting a traffic ticket does not necessarily mean you should simply pay the fine without considering the potential consequences.
Depending on the offence, a conviction could affect your:
- Driving record
- Demerit points
- Licence
- Insurance
- Future driving opportunities
If you are unsure about what to do, getting professional advice can help you understand the potential consequences of your specific charge.
Contact a Toronto Traffic Ticket Lawyer to discuss your situation and learn more about your available options.
Final Thoughts
Demerit points are an important part of Ontario’s driving system, but the number of points depends on the specific offence.
Some traffic offences carry only 2 or 3 points, while serious offences can result in 6 or 7 points. For drivers who already have points on their record, another conviction could potentially bring them closer to a licence suspension threshold.
Before deciding how to handle a traffic ticket, consider the potential impact on your driving record, demerit points, licence and insurance.
If you have received a traffic ticket in Toronto or elsewhere in Ontario and are concerned about the consequences, consider speaking with a qualified traffic ticket lawyer about your specific situation.