Demerit points, tickets and licence suspension in Saskatchewan

By the end of this topic you can

• You can explain how SGI assigns points for convictions and collisions.
• You can describe the GDL Improvement program steps.
• You can explain Safe Driver Recognition discounts and penalties.
• You can name offences that lead to vehicle impoundment.

What you need to know and understand

• Points come from traffic convictions and at-fault collisions.
• GDL drivers with any incident enter the GDL Improvement program.
• A first GDL incident rated two points or fewer brings a warning letter. Three to six points means a Traffic Safety Education session.
• Further GDL incidents lead to courses, then 30-, 90- and 180-day suspensions.
• For experienced drivers, a 30-day suspension starts at 21 points.
• In the Safe Driver Recognition Penalty Zone, you pay $50 for each point below zero, usually up to $1,000.
• Most SGI sanctions can be appealed to the Highway Traffic Board.

Points for common offences

SGI publishes the full list of offences and points, so check it for any ticket you receive.

• Speeding over the posted limit: 2 points.
• Speeding 35 km/h or more over the limit: 4 points.
• Speeding in a school zone: 3 points.
• Running a red light or stop sign: 4 points.
• Using a hand-held device: 4 points.
• Passing a school bus with lights flashing: 4 points.
• Not wearing a seatbelt: 3 points.
• Following too closely: 3 points.

The GDL Improvement program

A Novice 2 conviction or at-fault collision also restarts the 12-month incident-free period. Our guide to the SGI GDL Improvement program and Safe Driver Recognition explains each step.

1. First incident rated two points or fewer: warning letter.
2. First incident rated three to six points: Traffic Safety Education session.
3. Next incidents, in order: Defensive Driving course, then Driver Improvement training.
4. Further incidents: 30-day, then 90-day, then 180-day licence suspension.
5. After that: an interview and further action.

Experienced drivers and Safe Driver Recognition

Once out of GDL, the Driver Improvement Program applies. Points trigger an information letter at 9, a warning letter at 12, courses at 15 and 18, and suspensions of 30, 90 and 180 days at 21, 24 and 27 points, with interviews and reviews beyond that.

Safe Driver Recognition gives you a point for every incident-free year, with a 2 per cent discount per point on plate insurance up to 25 per cent. Incidents move you down the scale. Below zero you pay $50 per point, capped at $1,000 for most incidents and $2,500 for some Criminal Code convictions, and you have 90 days to pay. You drive your way out: each safe year moves you one point back.

Impoundments

Some offences lead police to impound the vehicle you are driving, even if you do not own it. Stunting, racing, or speeding 50 km/h or more over or double the posted limit means 30 days. Failing to stop for police means seven days. Driving while suspended or unlicensed means 30 days. The owner pays the towing and storage costs.

Common mistakes

• Paying a ticket without realizing it adds points and resets Novice 2.
• Assuming one minor ticket does not matter for a new driver.
• Lending your car to a risky driver. The owner pays when it is impounded.
• Ignoring a warning letter instead of changing habits.

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

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 Saskatchewan
• Saskatchewan Novice 1 and Novice 2 Rules
• Saskatchewan stunting, speeding and distracted driving penalties