In Quebec, understanding the demerit point system is essential to maintaining a clean driving record. This system accumulates points based on the traffic violations committed by the driver, passengers, or even individuals without a driving license.
Demerit Points Acquired Outside Quebec Follow You Home
It is important to highlight that demerit points acquired outside Quebec are also recorded on your driving record. Quebec has reciprocity agreements with Ontario, Maine, and New York State. This means that the SAAQ (Société de l’assurance automobile du Québec) may be informed of violations you commit in these areas if they result in demerit points. These points will be recorded in your driving record as if the violation had been committed in Quebec.
Unraveling the Points System
Whenever a driver is found guilty of a violation, points are added to their record. If the number of these points reaches a predefined limit, the driver may face severe consequences, such as the revocation of their license or the suspension of the right to obtain one.
Not Just Drivers, Everyone Counts
It is crucial to underline that even those not driving can accumulate demerit points. For instance, passengers not wearing seatbelts or those clinging onto a moving vehicle are subject to accumulating points and fines.
Different Demerit Point Regimes
The number of points assigned varies based on the status of the license, the driver’s age, and the individual’s valid permit. In Quebec, there are four demerit point regimes based on these conditions:
4-point regime: For aspiring drivers and those without a license.
8-point regime: For drivers under 23 years old.
12-point regime: For drivers between 23 and 24 years old.
15-point regime: For drivers 25 years old and above.
Points Trail: How and When They Are Recorded
The points are recorded in the individual’s driving record when the SAAQ is informed of the guilt declaration by the judicial authorities. These points remain on the record for two years from the guilt declaration date.
Consequences of Demerit Points
Upon accumulating a certain number of points, the driver receives a written notice containing details about the accumulated points and the limit before the license is revoked. When this limit is reached or exceeded, the driver’s license is revoked for a period that can be 3, 6, or 12 months, depending on various factors.
If an individual is caught driving with a suspended license, the vehicle will be seized, and the driver will be penalized with a fine ranging from $600 to $2000.
License Reinstatement
To get the license back, the driver must wait until the sanction period ends and then pass a reintegration exam.
In summary, a solid understanding of the demerit points system is vital for all drivers in Quebec. Let’s remember that accumulating demerit points can have a significant impact on the annual cost of the driving license, as it increases the contribution to the Quebec Automobile Insurance Fund. Driving responsibly and respecting the highway code not only helps avoid fines and penalties but also contributes to making our roads safer.
