How Can I Check My Demerit Points in Toronto – The Ultimate 2025 Guide

How Can I Check My Demerit Points in Toronto? This step-by-step 2025 guide explains everything about checking, understanding, and managing your demerit points in Toronto.

Driving in Toronto comes with its share of responsibilities, and keeping your record clean is one of them. One of the most overlooked yet crucial aspects of your driving record is demerit points. Whether you’re a new driver or someone with years behind the wheel, knowing how to check your demerit points in Toronto is key to protecting your license and staying insured.

Let’s uncover what demerit points are, how they affect you, and—most importantly—how you can check them today in the most efficient way possible.

Understanding the Demerit Points System in Ontario

The demerit point system in Ontario is designed to encourage safe driving by penalizing traffic violations. While many assume demerit points are awarded for “bad” drivers only, the truth is that even a single speeding ticket Toronto can add points to your record.

What Are Demerit Points?

Demerit points are penalties added to your driver’s record when you’re convicted of a traffic offence under Ontario’s Highway Traffic Act or similar laws. They are not “removed” per se, but rather accumulate over time and drop off after a set period.

For instance:

• Speeding (16–29 km/h over limit): 3 points

• Failing to stop at a red light: 3 points

• Careless driving: 6 points

How Demerit Points Are Assigned

When you’re convicted of a traffic offence, the court notifies the Ministry of Transportation (MTO), which then applies the appropriate number of points to your driving record.

The amount of points depends on the severity of the violation:

Consequences of Accumulating Demerit Points

• 6 to 8 points: Warning letter

• 9 to 14 points: Possible license suspension

• 15 or more: Immediate suspension

Your insurance premiums may also rise, and repeat infractions can lead to loss of driving privileges altogether.

Legal Authority Behind Demerit Points in Toronto

The system is governed under Ontario’s Highway Traffic Act, which applies province-wide, including in Toronto. Municipal police, OPP, and even photo radar contribute to infractions that lead to demerit points.

Why It’s Important to Monitor Your Demerit Points

Ignoring your demerit points can result in unexpected suspensions, higher insurance costs, and a tarnished driving record. Regular checks help you:

• Understand your driving behaviour

• Contest inaccurate entries

• Take corrective steps if points are high

How Can I Check My Demerit Points in Toronto?

Checking your demerit points is surprisingly simple with a few different methods available.

Online via ServiceOntario

This is the quickest and most popular method.

Steps:

1. Visit the official ServiceOntario website

2. Choose the “Driver’s Abstract” or “3-Year Driver Record” option.

3. Log in with your driver’s license number, name, and birthdate.

4. Pay the fee (usually around $12).

5. Receive your record via email or download instantly.

In-Person at a ServiceOntario Centre

Prefer a face-to-face interaction? You can visit any ServiceOntario location.

You’ll need:

• Valid driver’s license

• Payment method (cash, debit, credit)

• Completed request form (if needed)

Records are typically provided on the spot.

By Mail Request

You can request your record by mailing a completed form to the MTO. This method takes longer—usually 2 to 4 weeks.

Using a Driver Abstract

There are two types of abstracts:

• 3-Year Driver Record: Shows convictions and demerit points

• Complete Driver Record: Includes all driving history, including suspensions

How Much Does It Cost to Check Your Demerit Points?

Some insurance companies may offer free reports as part of your policy package.

How Often Should You Check Your Demerit Points?

It’s wise to check:

• Every 6 to 12 months

• After any traffic ticket

• Before renewing insurance

This way, you stay ahead of any surprises.

What to Do If You Think Your Demerit Points Are Incorrect

If something doesn’t look right, you can:

1. Contact ServiceOntario for clarification

2. Dispute the charge in court

3. Seek legal advice from a paralegal or traffic lawyer

Mistakes do happen, and they can often be corrected.

Tips to Avoid Accumulating Demerit Points in the Future

• Avoid aggressive driving

• Obey speed limits, especially in school zones

• Use defensive driving strategies

• Take a certified defensive driving course

• Don’t drive distracted (phone, food, etc.)

How to Reduce Existing Demerit Points on Your Record

Demerit points expire after 2 years from the date of the offence. There’s no “point removal” service, but you can:

• Drive safely and avoid new infractions

• Consider defensive driving courses (some insurance benefits)

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: How long do demerit points stay on my record in Ontario?
A: They stay for 2 years from the date of the offence.

Q2: Can I check my demerit points for free?
A: No, there is a small fee unless your insurance provider offers it.

Q3: Do parking tickets affect my demerit points?
A: No, parking violations do not impact your demerit point total.

Q4: What happens if I get 15 demerit points?
A: Your license will be automatically suspended.

Q5: Can new drivers accumulate fewer points before being penalized?
A: Yes, G1 and G2 drivers face stricter thresholds.

Q6: Is there a mobile app to check my demerit points in Ontario?
A: Not yet, but the online portal works well on mobile browsers.

Conclusion

Knowing how to check your demerit points in Toronto can save you from unexpected consequences. Whether you choose the online route, visit in person, or request by mail, staying informed helps protect your license and keep your record clean. Drive safe, stay alert, and check your record regularly—your future self will thank you.