Dubai Black Points: Checking, Penalties & More
Adherence to the rules is crucial for the safety of all the users of the roads. It is also important to understand the principle of the so-called black points system in Dubai that is charged for certain violations. This article provides maximum information on the issue.
What are Black Points?
In Dubai, black points represent the accumulated system of penalties and monetary fines for traffic offenses. Black points can be given for specific kinds of violations or if there is a complaint from another person.
Consequences of Black Points
Black points in Dubai are given at the time of the violation and the offender is informed through an SMS within 48 hours. Black points are intended to punish violations of traffic rules and, of course, develop respect for other participants in traffic. The drivers lose their driving license if they amass 24 black points:
- First time: for 3 months;
- Second time: for 6 months;
- Third time: for 1 year + must retake the defensive driving course and exams at one of the driving schools in Dubai.
In serious offenses, the driver may be denied the opportunity to pass the exams and obtain the right to drive.
List of Violations with Black Points
All violations require payment of a fine. List of violations for cars and motorcycles, and the number of black points:
- Jumping a red signal - 12, vehicle confiscation for 30 days;
- Running away from traffic policeman man - 12, vehicle confiscation for 30 days;
- Failure of a driver to stop after causing a minor accident - 8, vehicle confiscation for 7 days;
- The poor condition of a car - 6;
- The poor condition of trailer rear or side lights - 4;
- Absence of trailer rear or side lights - 4;
- Loading in a way that puts other people at risk - 4;
- Load or protruding load without permission - 4;
- Driving at night without lights - 4;
- Driving in a foggy weather without lights - 4;
- Failure of a motorcyclist to wear a helmet - 4;
- The poor condition of rear lights - 2.
List of violations for heavy vehicles:
- Running away from a traffic policeman by - 16, vehicle confiscation for 30 days;
- Failure of driver to stop after causing a minor accident - 16, vehicle confiscation for 30 days;
- Vehicle not abiding by lane discipline - 12;
- Falling or leaking of load - 12;
- Loading in a way that poses danger to others - 6;
- Loading in a way that causes harm to the road - 6;
- Driving that doesn't adhere to safety and security regulations - 6;
- Heavy vehicle prohibited entry - 4.
General offenses that can result in black points include driving without insurance, improper parking, failing to pay fines, and so on. There are violations, such as failing to follow traffic policeman instructions, which result in four black points. There are violations for which up to 23 black points are charged with confiscation of the vehicle for up to three months, such as:
- Driving in a way that endangers both other people's safety and the life or lives of the driver;
- Driving in a manner that endangers either private or public property;
- Driving under the influence of alcohol;
- Driving a vehicle without number plates.
How to Reduce or Remove Black Points
If you have 8 to 24 black points in Dubai, you have at least two options to reduce it:
- Complete special Safe Driving Courses organized by RTA (Roads and Transport Authority). After completing the course, 8 black points will be deducted from your driver's license;
- On certain holidays (for example, Ramadan or Eid al-Fitr), the RTA may offer fine reductions and allow you to reduce the number of black points;
- You can also get a discount on car insurance if you drive carefully for a set period after receiving black points. This type of program, known as Usage-Based Insurance, is becoming more popular in many countries, including Dubai. Under this system, the insurance company installs a device in the vehicle that collects data on the driver's driving style, such as speed, braking, and acceleration. Based on this information, the insurance company can determine the level of risk and offer a discount based on how cautious the driver is on the road.
How to Check Black Points
There are ways to look for black points:
- Contact official authorities in Dubai, such as the Department of Security and Justice or the Dubai Police, to inquire about one's status.
- Go to the Dubai Police website (https://www.dubaipolice.gov.ae/wps/portal/home), then select Services - Traffic Services - Fines Inquiry and Payment - Access Service. Enter your driver's license and vehicle number and follow page instructions.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How long do black points last in Abu Dhabi?
Black points on a driver's record are valid for one year. But, you must ensure that at no time during the year, the total number of black points you have accrued does not surpass 24. As soon as these surpass 24, your driver's license will be canceled. The duration of the driving license suspension is three to six months.
What does 12 black points mean in Dubai?
In most cases, it is jumping a red light or running away from traffic police when asked to stop.
Can black points be transferred?
You are not allowed to share and transfer black points.
How to challenge a traffic fine in Ajman?
File an appeal with the Ajman Police Traffic and Licensing Services Department.
Can I drive with 24 black points?
No, your ability to drive a car will be restricted.
How do I remove 4 black points from my license?
How to clear black points in UAE?
There is no method to completely clear black points.