The driving license points is a system used in several countries to encourage responsible driving by penalizing infractions.
Although the rules and systems vary around the world, the concept is generally the same: the driver loses points every time they commit an infraction. It is therefore important to know how it works and how to check your points.
Consulting these points regularly is essential for any driver to know their history and avoid unpleasant surprises.
In this article, we explain what driving license points are, why they are important and how you can check their status, depending on where you live.
What Are Driving License Points?
Driving license points are part of a system used in several countries to monitor and control driver behavior.
In some systems, drivers start with zero points and points are added for each offense. In others, drivers start with a maximum number of points, and these are deducted for each infraction.
In summary, all drivers start with a certain number of points on their license, according to the legislation of each country.
Points can be removed or added progressively when you commit certain traffic offenses, such as speeding, using a cell phone while driving or passing a prohibition sign.
Why Is This Points System On Your Driving License Important?
This points system is important for promoting safe and conscientious driving, with the objective of reducing the number of infractions and accidents on the road.
Failure to comply with the rules of the road leads to the accumulation or elimination of points on the driving license, depending on the rules of each country.
Too many or too few points (depending on how this system works in the country) can lead to serious consequences, including:
- Suspension or revocation of your driving license
- Higher insurance
- Compulsory driving courses
- In some cases, criminal charges
It’s therefore important to know how to check and monitor your points to avoid unpleasant surprises and stay legally safe on the road.
How Do I Check My Driving License Points?
How you check your driving points on license varies from country to country. Each country (and sometimes even regions of a country) has its own way of allowing drivers to check their license points. Some ways to check are:
1. Online Portals
Many governments provide a secure and official website where you can log in with your official credentials and view your driving license record.
2. Official Mobile Applications
Some countries offer mobile applications linked to traffic authorities or driving license databases.
3. Registered Post Or In Person
In certain regions, you may have to apply for registration by post or visit a government office.
4. Through Your Insurance Company
Some insurers offer this service as part of their customer portal.
Who Can Check Driving License Points?
This information can vary from country to country, but generally only the driver can check the points on their license. In specific cases, a legal representative can request the information on presentation of a valid procuration.
Now that you know how to check driving license points, it’s important to be aware of the current status of your license.
Examples Of The Points System Around The World
Although these systems vary from country to country, here are some examples:
- United States: Each state has its own points system.
- Germany: The system works on a scale of 0-8 points. The driver starts with 0 points and if they reach 8 points, their license will be suspended.
- Netherlands: The points system has different rules for drivers according to the length of their license.
- Brazil: There is a limit of points up to 40 points on the document, and this limit varies according to the seriousness of the infractions. For example, if there are two very serious offenses, the limit is 20 points.
- Australia: Drivers have a merit point limit that varies according to the type of license.
- Japan: This country has a very different points system to other countries. Drivers who achieve between 6 and 14 points on their license can have the document suspended for up to six months. Above 15, it is suspended for 1 year. If the infractions are serious or repeated frequently, licenses can be canceled
- Canada: There are similar point systems, managed at provincial level.
How To Avoid Losing Or Gaining Driving License Points?
In order not to lose or gain points, depending on the country’s legislation, it is essential to avoid infractions, practice safe driving and, if necessary, attend specific training courses.
Here are some effective strategies for avoiding penalizations:
1. Adopting Defensive Driving
Defensive driving is one of the best ways to avoid infringements and ensure safety on the road.
Some essential practices include:
- Keep a safe distance from other vehicles to avoid sudden braking;
- Respect speed limits, especially in risk zones;
- Be aware of the behavior of other drivers and anticipate possible dangerous situations;
- Avoid distractions at the wheel
2. Complying With Traffic Rules To Avoid Serious And Very Serious Offenses
Offenses such as dangerous overtaking, running red lights and driving under the influence of alcohol are some of the main reasons for losing points on your license.
To avoid these situations:
- Respect traffic lights and signs;
- Never drive under the influence of alcohol or illegal substances;
- Avoid overtaking in prohibited places;
- Always wear your seat belt and make sure your passengers do the same.
Looking to find out more about the automotive world? Then follow us on Facebook and keep up with all the content we share on a daily basis.
