Suspensions more 'painful' than fines: Drivers, experts on stricter demerit rules

Singapore's demerit points system for traffic violations is set for a significant overhaul, with stricter rules taking effect on January 1, 2027. The threshold for a first-time driving suspension will be lowered from 24 points accumulated over two years to 18 points, and suspension periods will be extended. The Singapore Police Force (SPF) aims to deter traffic offenses and keep errant drivers off the roads for longer durations.

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The suspension actually worked and I stopped getting demerit points.

Drivers and experts express mixed views on the effectiveness of these changes. One driver, who wished to remain anonymous, shared that a 12-week suspension for running two red lights was effective in changing his behavior. He noted that fines were less impactful than the threat to his driving entitlement. Another anonymous driver, who faced a longer suspension and jail time for a serious accident, suggested that while suspensions can be "painful," habitual risk-takers might remain undeterred.

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The suspension is more 'painful'.

Sociologist Tan Ern Ser from the Institute of Policy Studies believes the reduced threshold sends a clear message against complacency and could counter optimism bias among drivers. However, some, like part-time private-hire driver Carmen Ortega, observe that many dangerous drivers seem indifferent to the risks. The financial implications of a suspension are also substantial, with one driver estimating a loss of S$10,000 to S$13,000 (US$7,800 to US$10,100) in Certificate of Entitlement value alone for a year off the road.

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As long as a person is working and owning a car, a fine is not that big an amount to affect their behaviour. But demerit points will threaten their entitlement to drive, and that’s something money can’t buy.