Demerit Point System to Boost Road Safety – Minister Vaz

The Demerit Point System aims to curb reckless driving and improve road safety, says Minister of Energy, Transport and Telecommunications, Hon. Daryl Vaz.

It is designed to promote greater compliance with traffic laws, encourage responsible driving behaviour and, ultimately, reduce road crashes, injuries and fatalities.

“It is not intended as a punitive measure but as a road-safety tool that encourages responsible driving and helps reduce dangerous behaviour on our roads,” the Minister pointed out.

He was speaking at a press conference on Thursday (June 25) at the Ministry’s New Kingston offices. The Demerit Point System, under the Road Traffic Act 2018 and the Road Traffic Regulations, 2022, is a structured mechanism through which points are added to a driver’s record for specified traffic offences, which may result in suspension of the driver’s licence where prescribed thresholds are exceeded.

It takes effect on October 1, 2026.

Minister Vaz is encouraging motorists to settle their outstanding traffic tickets by September 30, 2026, to ensure that they are not adversely affected by the commencement of the system.

“The Island Traffic Authority (ITA) has consistently advised that accumulated points can lead to suspension depending on the severity and frequency of offences. I, therefore, urge all motorists, transport operators and road users to act now. Settle outstanding matters, become compliant, obey the rules of the road, and help create a safer environment for all Jamaicans,” he said.