Every driver in the UAE must maintain a clean driving record to avoid costly fines and license suspension. The Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) uses a black points penalty system to track repeated and serious traffic violations. Each offence adds a certain number of black points to your license. Once you reach the limit, your driving licence may be suspended and your vehicle could be impounded. This guide explains how RTA black points work, how the penalty calculator helps, and how to reduce or clear accumulated points.
What Are RTA Black Points?
RTA black points are penalty points added to a driver’s licence for traffic violations such as speeding, reckless driving, crossing red signals, and using mobile phones while driving. Each violation carries a specific number of points based on the severity of the offence.
• Minimum black points per violation: 2 points
• Maximum black points per violation: 24 points
• License suspension threshold: 24 black points
The higher the number of points, the worse the driving violation.
Why Use the RTA Black Points Penalty Calculator?
The penalty calculator helps drivers track their current black points and estimate future penalties based on violations. It is useful for:
• Preventing licence suspension
• Understanding penalties before committing violations
• Monitoring driving record status
• Reviewing points after fines are paid
RTA Black Points Penalty Categories
Different violations add different points. Below is a simple breakdown:
| Violation Type | Black Points | Penalty Impact |
|---|---|---|
| Minor speed violation | 2–3 | Fine only |
| Medium speed violation | 6–8 | Fine + black points |
| Major speed / reckless driving | 12 | Possible vehicle impound |
| Using phone while driving | 4 | Risk of repeated points accumulation |
| Red-light violation | 12 | Heavy fine + impound |
| Drunk driving | 23 | Court case + maximum penalty |
| Hit and run | 23 | Legal action + licence suspension likelihood |
How to Check Black Points Using the RTA Calculator
The RTA online platform allows drivers to check accumulated points easily. Follow these steps:
- Visit the RTA official website or open the Dubai Drive app
- Select Driver & Vehicle Information Services
- Choose Traffic Fines / Black Points Inquiry
- Enter licence number or traffic file number
- Review the summary showing fines, violations, and black points
The calculator updates automatically based on newly recorded traffic violations.
How the Black Points Penalty Calculator Helps Drivers
• Shows total accumulated points and remaining limit before suspension
• Breaks down points per violation for better understanding
• Alerts drivers to serious driving violations
• Encourages safer and responsible driving habits
RTA Black Points Suspension System
If a driver reaches 24 black points, RTA may suspend the licence.
| Suspension Cycle | Duration |
|---|---|
| First Time | 3 months |
| Second Time | 6 months |
| Third Time | 12 months |
| Fourth Time | Licence cancelled, full retest required |
Multiple high-risk violations in a short time can lead to rapid suspension even before reaching 24 points if the case goes to court.
How to Reduce or Remove Black Points
Although violations cannot be deleted instantly, drivers can reduce black points through:
• RTA-approved driving awareness courses
• Safe driving behaviour for extended periods
• Court decision in some exceptional cases
Some emirates offer seasonal discount campaigns where vehicle impounding and fines may be reduced for good behaviour.
Overview Table
| Category | Information |
|---|---|
| Max black points allowed | 24 points |
| Points range per violation | 2 – 23 |
| Calculator platform | RTA website / Dubai Drive app |
| Suspension threshold | 24 points |
| Black points removal | Driving courses & legal clearance |
| Key penalty triggers | Speeding, DUI, reckless driving |
Tips to Avoid Black Points
• Drive within speed limits even on open highways
• Never use a mobile phone while driving
• Follow traffic signals strictly
• Keep a safe distance and avoid tailgating
• Do not allow unlicensed persons to drive your vehicle
• Maintain calm and avoid aggressive driving behaviour
Consequences of Ignoring Black Points
Ignoring accumulated black points can lead to:
• License suspension
• Higher insurance premiums
• Vehicle impound
• Legal action and costly penalties
• Difficulty renewing vehicle registration
It is recommended to monitor driving records regularly and take corrective action immediately.
FAQs
Q1: What happens if I reach 24 black points?
Your driving licence may be suspended for 3–12 months depending on repeat offence history.
Q2: Can black points be removed by paying fines?
No, fines do not remove black points; they expire only after the designated duration or through RTA training programs.
Q3: Where can I check my black points online?
You can check them on the RTA website or the Dubai Drive mobile app using your traffic file or licence number.