In Singapore, demerit points for traffic violations reset every three years from the date of the offence. This means that if you have accumulated demerit points within the past three years, they will be removed from your record on the third anniversary of the date of the last offence. For example, if you were caught speeding on January 1, 2023, and received three demerit points, those points will reset on January 1, 2026.
What Happens If You Exceed 12 Demerit Points?
If you accumulate 12 or more demerit points within a three-year period, your driving licence will be suspended for a period of time. The length of the suspension will depend on the number of demerit points you have accumulated:
- 12-15 demerit points: 3-month suspension
- 16-23 demerit points: 6-month suspension
- 24 or more demerit points: 12-month suspension
Can I Check My Demerit Points Online?
Yes, you can check your demerit points online through the MyTransport portal:
- Go to the MyTransport portal: https://mytransport.sg/
- Click on the “Login” button and sign in with your SingPass
- Once you are logged in, click on the “My Vehicles” tab
- Select the vehicle that you want to check the demerit points for
- Scroll down to the “Demerit Points” section
How Can I Reduce My Demerit Points?
There are a few ways to reduce your demerit points:
- Attend a safe driving course: You can attend a safe driving course approved by the Traffic Police to reduce up to 4 demerit points.
- Pay a composition fine: You can pay a composition fine for certain traffic offences to avoid accumulating demerit points.
- Make a written representation: You can make a written representation to the Traffic Police to request that they review the demerit points you have received.
What Are the Common Mistakes to Avoid?
Here are some of the common mistakes to avoid when it comes to demerit points:
- Speeding: Speeding is one of the most common traffic offences that can lead to demerit points. Make sure to obey the speed limit at all times.
- Running a red light: Running a red light is another serious traffic offence that can lead to demerit points. Always come to a complete stop at red lights.
- Using a mobile phone while driving: Using a mobile phone while driving is illegal in Singapore and can lead to demerit points.
- Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs: Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs is a serious offence that can lead to demerit points, suspension of your driving licence, and even imprisonment.
Conclusion
Demerit points are a system used by the Traffic Police to deter traffic offences and improve road safety. By understanding how demerit points work, you can avoid accumulating them and keep your driving licence safe.
Additional Information
Here are some additional information about demerit points in Singapore:
- Demerit points are recorded on your driving record for a period of three years.
- You can check your demerit points online through the MyTransport portal.
- There are a few ways to reduce your demerit points, including attending a safe driving course, paying a composition fine, or making a written representation to the Traffic Police.
- It is important to avoid common mistakes that can lead to demerit points, such as speeding, running a red light, using a mobile phone while driving, and driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
By following these tips, you can help keep your driving record clean and avoid the consequences of accumulating demerit points.