Alberta Demerit Points Explained: How Many Until Suspension?
Alberta's demerit point system is simple in principle: traffic convictions add points to your record, and too many points means a suspension. The thresholds are different for new drivers — and the specific point values are popular knowledge test questions.
The suspension thresholds
| Licence Type | Suspension At | Warning Letter At |
|---|---|---|
| GDL (Class 7 or Class 5-GDL) | 8 points | 4 points |
| Full licence (non-GDL) | 15 points | 8 points |
A first suspension is typically one month, a second is three months, and a third within a few years can mean a six-month suspension and a hearing. GDL drivers also restart their 24-month probation clock after a suspension — a suspension can add years to getting your full licence.
Demerit points for common offences
| Offence | Demerit Points |
|---|---|
| Failing to stop for a school bus with flashing red lights | 6 |
| Careless driving | 6 |
| Failing to yield to a pedestrian in a crosswalk | 4 |
| Following too closely | 4 |
| Running a red light | 3 |
| Disobeying a stop sign | 3 |
| Distracted driving (e.g. phone in hand) | 3 |
| Speeding | 2 to 6, depending on how far over the limit |
Points are added on conviction, not on the day of the ticket. They stay on your record for two years from the conviction date.
Why this matters for the knowledge test
Expect at least one question about demerits: the 8-point GDL threshold, the 15-point full-licence threshold, or the points for a specific offence like failing to yield to a pedestrian (4) or passing a school bus with flashing lights (6).
Can you reduce your demerit points?
Yes — completing an approved defensive driving course can remove up to 3 demerit points from your record (once every two years). It's worth doing if you're close to a threshold, but the cheaper strategy is not collecting points in the first place: most demerit offences come down to the same right-of-way and signal rules tested on the knowledge exam. Practice them for free and they'll keep paying off long after test day.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many demerit points until suspension in Alberta?
8 points for GDL drivers (Class 7 and Class 5-GDL), 15 points for fully licensed drivers.
How long do demerit points stay on your record in Alberta?
Two years from the conviction date.
How many demerits is speeding in Alberta?
Between 2 and 6 points depending on how far over the limit: roughly 2 points up to 15 km/h over, scaling to 6 points for 51+ km/h over.
Can I remove demerit points in Alberta?
Yes. An approved defensive driving course can remove up to 3 points, once every two years.