Demerit Points

Understand how Singapore's DIPS thresholds affect new and regular drivers.

The Driver Improvement Points System rewards clean driving and escalates consequences when offences stack up within the monitoring window.

Probationary Drivers

13 points in the first year can revoke the licence.

Traffic Police says new licence holders are on one year of probation from the issue date, and the licence is revoked if 13 or more demerit points are accumulated during that period.

Regular Drivers

24 points within 24 months triggers the first suspension.

After a first suspension, later thresholds tighten. Traffic Police describes a second suspension threshold of 12 or more demerit points within 12 months, with escalating suspension durations after that.

Common Offences

Typical items learners should know

Speeding

Usually 4 to 24 points depending on how far above the limit you are

The exact tier depends on the vehicle type and excess speed.

Red-light offence

12 points

One of the fastest ways to reach the probationary threshold.

Using a mobile communication device while driving

12 points

Also carries serious prosecution risk.

Failing to give way

Commonly tested as a points-and-safety concept

Check the latest Traffic Police penalties list for the exact offence wording.

How Expiry Works

Clean periods matter.

Traffic Police explains that licence holders are warned after offences are settled so they can remain offence-free for the next 12 months until those demerit points are expunged.

Checking Points

Use the official SPF tools.

You can check your demerit points through the Traffic Police e-service and your Digital Driving Licence in Singpass. That is the safest way to confirm your live status before booking lessons, tests, or appeals.

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