China's 12-point driving-licence system, explained
China records traffic-violation points cumulatively during a 12-month cycle. The 12-point figure is the full-score threshold—not a balance that starts at 12 and counts down.
How the points cycle works
- The cycle lasts 12 months. It is counted from the date a driver first receives a Chinese licence, or first receives a temporary driving permit.
- Points accumulate. Each violation is assigned 12, 9, 6, 3, or 1 point according to its seriousness. A violation may also carry a separate fine.
- Below 12 at the cycle end: points are generally cleared when the cycle ends. Points for violations with unpaid fines can carry into the next cycle.
- At 12 points: the traffic authority detains the licence and requires full-score traffic-safety study and a knowledge exam. Further skills tests can apply after repeated full-score events or higher cumulative totals.
Common examples in the national schedule
These examples illustrate the point bands in the national rules. They are not a complete list; the exact score depends on the recorded violation and circumstances.
12 points
Examples include driving after drinking alcohol and certain serious expressway violations.
9 points
Driving a vehicle that does not match the category permitted by your licence is one example.
6 points
Failing to obey a traffic-light signal, such as running a red light, is one example.
3 points
Using a hand-held phone while driving or failing to yield to pedestrians at a crosswalk are examples.
1 point
Examples include failing to wear a seat belt as required or violating a prohibition sign or marking.
Points may be reduced: eligible drivers can apply to deduct up to 6 points per cycle after completing qualifying traffic-safety education and assessment. The local traffic authority sets the available process.
What happens after a driver reaches 12?
The driver must complete the required full-score study and pass the relevant road-safety knowledge exam. A repeated full-score event in the same cycle, or reaching 24 points, can also require a road-driving skills test. Three or more full-score events, or a total of 36 points, can require additional field and road tests.
Education periods and exam requirements can be longer for some professional vehicle categories. Check the notice from the traffic authority and the current rules for your licence category.
Practise China's Subject 1 questionsOfficial sources
- Road Traffic Safety Violation Scoring Measures (Ministry of Public Security Order No. 163; Chinese) — scoring bands, cycles, full-mark education, exams, and eligible point reductions.
- Regulations on the Application and Use of Motor Vehicle Driving Licences (Order No. 172; Chinese) — licence and exam provisions.