[Experienced driver’s talk] Will new P-license holders be penalized for violating traffic regulations?

When a "new driver" (P license / driver's learner driving period) violates traffic regulations in Hong Kong, in addition to being fined and deducted points like ordinary drivers, they are also subject to a stricter probationary driving period . The following is a detailed description:

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1. What is P-plate scoring?

• P license (Probationary Driving Licence): New driver’s license holders must hold a P license for 12 months (learner driving period).
• Demerit Points : If 5 or more points are deducted during the P license period, the P license will be revoked and you will need to apply for a new one and complete the entire P license period.
• Unlike ordinary drivers : ordinary driver's license holders will be disqualified from driving only after accumulating 15 points.

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2. Demerit points for traffic violation (P plates apply)

2.1 Common items for assessment and scoring (partial)

Note: For detailed assessment and demerit points, please refer to the official website of the Transport Department .

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2.2 Special traffic regulations for P plates (violations will result in demerit points)

• No driving in the fast lane : When holding a P license, you must drive in the leftmost lane on the expressway. Violators will be prosecuted (3 points).
• No towing of the vehicle : Violation will result in prosecution (3 points).
• P-plate signs must be posted : Failure to post a P-plate sign will result in prosecution (3 points).
• Not to carry passengers on a motorcycle (if it is a P-plated motorcycle): Violators will be prosecuted (3 points).

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3. Consequences of demerit points (applicable to P licenses)

• 5 or more demerit points within 12 months:
  • The P license will be revoked immediately.
  • You need to reapply for a learning license, take a license test and complete another 12 months of P license period.
• Suspension if convicted:
  • The P license will be automatically revoked and you must reapply and complete the P license period.

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4. Will my P plate be revoked immediately if I violate different traffic regulations?

• Serious violations such as speeding, running red lights, dangerous driving, etc. may result in 5 points or more being deducted at one time, and the P license will be revoked.
• Accumulating multiple minor violations (such as 2 speeding violations with 3 points each) will also trigger the 5-point threshold.

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5. Other Notes

• P plate violation records will be uploaded to the official driver's license , affecting future license renewal and insurance.
• Offence points are valid for 2 years , but the P-license period is only 12 months.
• If you are penalized before your P license expires , you will have to start over even if you have considered renewing your license.

Probationary Driving Period Extension

1. Under what circumstances will the P license (probationary driving period) be extended?

• According to the Road Traffic (Driving Licences) (Probationary Driving Period) Regulations (Cap. 374E) , if you violate traffic regulations during the probationary driving period, you will be assessed demerit points.
• If you are incurred 3 or 4 points during the probationary period , the probationary period will be automatically extended for 6 months .
• If 5 points or more are deducted, the P license will be revoked (re-examination and completion of another 12-month P license period are required).

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2. Key contents of the regulations

• 3-4 points will be deducted for the first violation
  • The probationary driving period will be automatically extended for 6 months from that day.
• If the cumulative score of violation reaches 5 points or more
  • The P license will be revoked immediately and you will need to retake the exam and start a new 12-month probationary period.
• If there is an uncompleted extension period when the probationary driving period expires
  • You must complete the entire extension period before you can apply for a full driving licence.

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3. Example

• Example A :
  • A P-plate driver was deducted 3 points for speeding during the probationary period, and the probationary driving period was automatically extended from 12 months to 18 months.
• Example B :
  • A P-license driver was first deducted 3 points for not wearing a seat belt, and the probation period was extended for 6 months. If he violated the rules again during the extension period and was deducted 2 points, the total score reached 5 points, and the P-license was revoked immediately.

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4. Related Articles Reference

• Chapter 374E of the Laws of Hong Kong - Road Traffic (Driving Licences) (Probationary Driving Period) Regulations

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5. Summary and reminders

• If a new licensee (P license) is deducted 3-4 points within 12 months, the probation period will be automatically extended by 6 months.
• If you accumulate 5 points or more, your P license will be revoked immediately and you will need to retake the test and accept a new 12-month P license period.
• If violations occur again during the extension period, the consequences will be equally serious.
• To be eligible to apply for a full driving licence, you must have completed the entire probationary period (including any extensions).