Rules7 min read·
Demerit points explained: how they work in every province
What demerit points cost you, how long they stay, and how to keep your record clean.
Every Canadian province uses a demerit point system, but the thresholds and consequences vary. Points stay on your record for two years from the offence date in most provinces.
Common offences and points
- Speeding 1–15 km/h over: 2–3 points
- Distracted driving / cell phone: 3–4 points
- Failing to stop at a Stop sign: 3 points
- Failing to stop for a school bus: 6 points
- Driving without due care: 6 points
Suspension thresholds
- Ontario full G: 15 points = suspension; 9 points = mandatory interview.
- BC: 15+ points in 12 months triggers a Driver Improvement Program review.
- Quebec: 15 points = suspension for full licence holders (4 points for learners).
- Alberta: 15 points = one-month suspension; 8 points for GDL.
How to recover
You can't pay to remove points, but completing an approved defensive-driving course in some provinces (e.g., BC, Alberta) earns you points credit. Otherwise, the only fix is two clean years.