Black Points System in the UAE
March 21, 2023
Driving is a great way to explore new places and get away from the hustle and
bustle of everyday life. Taking your car for a long drive or just driving it around
might be your favourite pastime. However, it comes with its own set of risks.
Whenever you are behind the wheel, you should always pay attention to your
surroundings and be considerate of others. Driving distractedly or recklessly puts
others and yourself in danger, so it is important to be mindful of your actions and be
a responsible driver by following the rules of the road.
The UAE has implemented black points system for drivers in order to make sure
they follow driving ethics and norms.
It serves as a reminder and warning to drivers
that they must abide by the rules and not endanger themselves or other drivers.
It aims to minimise cases of callous driving and promote road safety in the UAE.
What are black points? Let's discuss this in detail!
What Are Black Points?
If you are found violating traffic laws, you may be issued black points on your licence.
The black points get accumulated over time, and if you accrue too many, you will face the consequence of having your licence suspended.
There are a number of violations that can result in black points, including speeding, failing to stop at a red light, talking on a mobile phone while driving, etc.
The minimum number of black points that can be issued on a licence is 2, while the maximum is 24.
The number of black points on your driving licence can tell whether you have made any driving errors in the past or if you have violated the law frequently.
Why Was The Black Points System Introduced?
Black points were introduced as a measure to keep traffic safe - to reduce the number of collisions and accidents on the roads. They ensure that you are driving safely and complying with all traffic laws. Your driving skills are reflected by these black points. Black points may also entail a combination of fines.
How Are Black Points Assigned?
As mentioned earlier, If you violate traffic rules, you will receive black points on your driving licence. Once the police add black points to your driving licence, you will receive an SMS notification. The traffic department keeps track of violations committed by drivers. These violations are classified based on their severity. There are specific black points assigned to different types of violations.
Consequences Of Black Points
There is a maximum of 24 black points you can receive for violating the traffic rules.
If you reach the maximum number of black points, the following will happen -
1. In the event of a first traffic violation, your driving licence will be confiscated for three months.
2. If you commit a second traffic violation, your licence will be confiscated for six months.
3.If you commit a third violation, your licence will be confiscated for one year, and you can't get it back unless you pass a driving course at a driving school approved by the authority.
In the event you reach the maximum limit of black points on your temporary driving
licence -
➔Your driving licence will be confiscated for 6 months and it will not be given back unless you pass a rehabilitation course (a program where you will be taught driving ethics) at a driving school.
Black points on your driving licence can also affect your insurance rates. Your driving record is an important factor that affects your car insurance premiums. In order to proceed to the quote part, you will need to enter your vehicle number and licence number. The insurer can check your black points with the licence number. Accordingly, the insurer can increase your insurance premium.
Black Points According To The Offences
Let’s see the number of black points you may get for violating the different traffic laws -
Sr.No | Violation | Fine (in AED) | Black Points |
---|---|---|---|
1 | Broken indicator lights. | 100 | 2 |
2 | Using horns in prohibited areas. | 200 | 2 |
3 | Using a hand-held mobile phone while driving | 200 | 4 |
4 | Not giving pedestrians a way on pedestrian crossings. | 500 | 6 |
5 | Causing serious injuries. | Decided by the court | 8 |
6 | Running away from a traffic policeman. | 800 | 12 |
7 | Exceeding the maximum speed limit by more than 60km/hr. | 1000 | 12 |
8 | Reckless driving. | 2000 | 12 |
9 | Not stopping after causing an accident that resulted in injuries. | Decided by the court | 24 |
10 | Driving under the influence of alcohol, drugs or similar substances. | Decided by the court | 24 |
Note:These are only a few of the violations and the corresponding black points from the list. For a more detailed list,
click here.
Can Black Points Be Reduced?
Black points have a validity of 12 months. If you want to reduce the black points on your licence, simply wait 12 months and let them expire. However, if you can't wait that long, there are other options available to reduce the number of black points on your record. You may enrol in programs that promote safe driving, which will help you reduce your black points once you've completed them. Every Emirate offers driving courses endorsed by respected police authorities for reducing black points on your licence.
How To Check Black Points On Your Licence?
Visit the police website of your respective emirate. By entering your licence number, you will be able to view the black points associated with your licence.
For example, if you reside in Dubai, you can follow these steps:[Text Wrapping Break]
1.Visit the Dubai Police Website
2.Click on Services
3.Go to Traffic Services
4.Click on Traffic Fines Payment
5.Enter your driving licence number
6.Your black points will be displayed.
If you reside in any other Emirate, you can visit its respective website to check the black points on your licence -
Wrapping up!
A violation of traffic rules will result in black points on your driving licence. If you accumulate too many points over time, your licence may be taken away. So, ensure you adhere to safe driving habits and never let black points blemish your driving record.