A driver’s abstract is an essential document that provides a summary of your driving history in Alberta. It’s often requested by employers, insurance companies, or for other official purposes, such as applying for a new job. A clean driver’s abstract, which shows no traffic violations or demerit points, is particularly valuable. This record not only reflects your driving behavior but can also impact your insurance rates and job opportunities.
What is a Clean Drivers Abstract in Alberta?
A clean driver’s abstract in Alberta is a driving record that shows no traffic violations, demerit points, or suspensions for the specified time period, which could be 3, 5, or 10 years. This type of abstract indicates that you have adhered to Alberta’s traffic laws and have not committed any infractions. A clean record is often required for employment, particularly in roles that involve driving, as well as for securing lower insurance rates.
Learn about getting your drivers abstract online here.
What Is Considered a Clean Driver’s Abstract?
In Alberta, a clean driver’s abstract means that the driver has no demerit points, traffic violations, or convictions recorded for the period requested—whether it’s for 3 years, 5 years, or 10 years. A clean abstract is often required for jobs that involve driving, as well as for insurance purposes, where a good driving record can lead to lower premiums.
A clean driver’s abstract will show:
- No traffic convictions or violations.
- No demerit points accumulated during the selected period.
- No license suspensions or other negative driving-related incidents.
What Information is Included in a Driver’s Abstract in Alberta?
A driver’s abstract in Alberta includes various details related to an individual’s driving history. The report shows important information like:
- Driver Information: Name, address, license number, and issue date.
- Driver’s Appearance: Age, height, weight, and sex.
- License Status: The current status of the driver’s license (valid, suspended, etc.).
- Demerit Points: The number of demerit points on the license for any traffic violations.
- Suspensions: Any past or current suspensions on the driving record.
- Convictions: Traffic-related convictions, including those resulting from speeding or other offenses.
- Reinstatement Conditions: If applicable, any conditions that must be met to have a suspended license reinstated.
AMA Information on How to get a Drivers Abstract in Alberta
How Much Does a Drivers Abstract Cost in Alberta?
The current cost to get a driver’s abstract is $23.10 CAD if you order online. $28 CAD in person at your local registry office.
How Does Alberta’s Demerit Point System Affect Your Driver’s Abstract?
The demerit point system in Alberta plays a crucial role in determining whether a driver’s abstract is considered clean. Demerit points are added to your driving record if you are convicted of certain traffic violations. Accumulating too many demerit points can lead to license suspension and negatively affect your abstract.
Here’s how demerit points affect your abstract:
- 2 to 3 points for minor violations like speeding.
- 4 to 7 points for more serious offenses like reckless driving.
- 15 points or more will result in a license suspension and a heavily penalized abstract.
Regular monitoring of your demerit points helps ensure your abstract remains clean.
What Happens If You Have Demerits on Your Alberta Driver’s Abstract?
Having demerits on your driver’s abstract in Alberta can have several consequences, especially if you accumulate too many points within a short time period. Here are some of the key impacts:
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Licence Suspension: If you accumulate 15 or more demerit points, your driver’s licence can be suspended for a minimum of one month. If you’re a probationary driver, the suspension can happen at just 8 demerit points.
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Increased Insurance Premiums: Demerits on your abstract can also lead to higher auto insurance premiums. Insurance companies review your driving record, and drivers with demerit points are often considered higher risk, resulting in increased rates.
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Employment Issues: Some employers require a clean driving abstract as part of their hiring process, particularly in jobs that involve driving. Accumulating demerits could negatively affect your chances of securing these types of jobs.
How Do I Remove Demerits From My Driver’s Abstract?
In Alberta, the only way to remove demerits from your driver’s abstract is by waiting for the demerit points to expire after two years. Once the two-year period has passed, the demerit points automatically drop off your driving record.
However, there are a few proactive ways to manage your demerit points and avoid penalties:
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Demerit Reduction Program: If you have fewer than 15 demerit points, you can take an approved defensive driving course to reduce your total points by up to 3 points. Completing the course can reduce your demerit points by up to 3 points once every two years.
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Maintain Safe Driving: Avoiding further traffic violations will prevent additional demerit points from being added to your abstract, helping you maintain a cleaner driving record.
Key Information About a Clean Driver’s Abstract in Alberta
- A clean driver’s abstract in Alberta means no demerit points or traffic violations for the selected time period (3, 5, or 10 years).
- Demerit points and driving violations can affect insurance premiums and job opportunities that require a clean driving record.
- Abstracts provide detailed information, including driver’s license status, personal details, demerit points, and any convictions or suspensions.
- You can order a driver’s abstract online or in-person, with costs typically ranging from $23 to $28 CAD.