Demerit points can have a lasting effect on your driving record, your insurance rates, and in some cases, your licence status. But many Ontario drivers aren’t sure how long these points remain on record or what they can do to manage the consequences. Read on to learn more about Demerit points, Ontario:
In this article, we’ll break down how demerit points work in Ontario, how long they last, and what to do if you’ve received a traffic ticket that includes demerit points.
What Are Demerit Points?
In Ontario, demerit points are used to track your driving performance. They’re added to your record only after you’re convicted of certain traffic offences—not when you receive the ticket, but when you are found guilty or plead guilty.
The number of points assigned depends on the severity of the offence. For example:
- 2 points: Failing to signal, speeding under 15 km/h over the limit
- 3 points: Speeding between 16–29 km/h over, running a stop sign
- 4 points: Following too closely, failing to stop for a school bus
- 6 points: Careless driving, racing, stunt driving, failing to remain
How Long Do Demerit Points Stay on Record?
Demerit points stay on your driving record in Ontario for two years from the date of the offence (not the date of conviction). After two years, they automatically drop off your record.
However, your full driving abstract, which includes all convictions, can still be viewed by insurance companies for up to 3 years, and more serious offences may remain visible for even longer.
This is why it’s important to understand that while the points may “fall off” after two years, the conviction itself may continue to affect your insurance premiums or legal standing beyond that.
Will Demerit Points Affect My Insurance?
Yes, but not directly. Insurance companies don’t look at the points themselves—they look at the convictions. That’s why even tickets with no points attached can impact your insurance.
Multiple convictions within a short time frame (even if they carry low points) can label you as a high-risk driver in the eyes of your insurance provider.
What Happens If You Accumulate Too Many Demerit Points?
The Ministry of Transportation monitors your total demerit points. Here’s what can happen:
- 6 to 8 points (for fully licensed drivers): You’ll receive a warning letter.
- 9 to 14 points: You may be required to attend an interview to explain your driving behaviour.
- 15 or more points: Your licence can be suspended.
For novice drivers (G1, G2, M1, M2), the thresholds are lower.
Can You Remove Demerit Points?
No, there is no way to remove demerit points early. They remain on your record for the full two-year period unless the original conviction is overturned or withdrawn in court.
This is why fighting the ticket before a conviction occurs is so important. If you can avoid the conviction, you avoid the points—and the long-term consequences.
How a Paralegal Can Help
At Ticket Defenders, we’ve helped thousands of drivers across Ontario fight tickets that could have resulted in demerit points and insurance rate increases. Our team can review your case, request disclosure, represent you in court, and work to get the charge reduced or withdrawn.
In many cases, we can appear on your behalf so you don’t need to attend court yourself.
Summary
- Demerit points stay on your record for two years from the offence date
- Insurance companies look at convictions, not just points
- Accumulating too many points can lead to a licence suspension
- The best way to avoid points is to fight the ticket before conviction
Concerned about demerit points on your record?
Book a free consultation with our team to learn how we can help protect your driving history.