Demerit points, tickets and licence suspension in Nunavut

By the end of this topic you can

• You can explain how demerit points are added and removed.
• You can name the three key point levels and what happens at each.
• You can give point values for common offences.
• You can explain other ways a licence can be suspended.

What you need to know and understand

• Points are added when the Registrar learns of a conviction, including some convictions in other jurisdictions and under municipal bylaws.
• Points are removed 24 months after they were added.
• At 8 points you receive a warning letter by registered mail.
• At 12 or more points you must attend an interview; missing it can lead to suspension.
• At 15 or more points your licence is suspended for one month.
• After three point-based suspensions, the Registrar can cancel your licence for longer, up to 24 months.

How the point system works

The Driver's Licence Demerit Point Regulations tell the Registrar of Motor Vehicles to keep a driving record and to add points as convictions come in. Points for an offence committed elsewhere, or under a community bylaw, can be added at the same value as the equivalent Nunavut offence. Each set of points drops off after 24 months. The online consolidation of these regulations dates back to the 1990s, so confirm current details with Motor Vehicles.

Steps as points build up

1. 8 points: the Registrar writes to tell you your total.
2. 12 or more points: you are notified and must attend a phone or in-person interview with a driver examiner or review officer.
3. 15 or more points: your licence is suspended for one month.
4. Three or more point suspensions: your licence can be cancelled for more than one month and up to 24 months for each further 15 points.

Point values for common offences

• Careless driving: 6
• Failing to stop for a school bus: 4
• Speeding 31 to 50 km/h over: 5
• Speeding 16 to 30 km/h over: 3
• Speeding up to 15 km/h over: 2
• Not wearing a seatbelt or not securing a child: 2
• Running a red light, failing to stop, failing to yield, or following too closely: 2
• Improper turn or signal, or failing to dim lights: 1

Other suspensions

Separate from points, police can suspend a licence at the roadside for alcohol, drugs or fatigue, and courts can prohibit driving after a criminal conviction. Driving while suspended is a serious offence that can bring a large fine or jail, and reinstating a suspended licence costs $75 under the current fee schedule.

Common mistakes

• Thinking a ticket outside Nunavut will not count. Points can be added for equivalent offences elsewhere.
• Ignoring the interview letter at 12 points. Missing it can lead to suspension.
• Paying a ticket without realizing it is a conviction that adds points.
• Driving 'just once' while suspended. It brings much heavier penalties.

Test yourself: Demerit points, tickets and licence suspension in Nunavut

Answer each question, then read the explanation. Questions come in a random order each time.

Go deeper

• How to Get a Driver’s Licence in Nunavut
• Nunavut Restricted Driver’s Licence
• Driving in Iqaluit and Nunavut