What to Do About Red Light Running Penalty Points?
2 Answers
Pay the fine promptly. After the traffic police department issues the "Penalty Decision Notice," the fine must be paid within 15 days; otherwise, a late fee of 3% per day will be incurred (not exceeding double the original fine), which may also affect the annual vehicle inspection. For out-of-town violations, it is best to handle them at the local vehicle management office or traffic police station to avoid issues where the violation is processed locally but the out-of-town record remains unresolved. Below is relevant information: 1. Inquiry Time: Penalty points for running a red light are recorded immediately upon detection. For on-site inquiries, the violation can typically be found the next day, with a maximum delay of 15 days (half a month). For online inquiries, it usually takes 3-5 days after the violation to be visible, as the synchronization between the traffic police system's data import and the inquiry system requires some time. 2. Conditions for Determining Red Light Running: (1) The vehicle crosses the stop line in violation; (2) The vehicle enters the intersection in violation; (3) The vehicle crosses the opposite stop line in violation.
I've been driving for almost 20 years, and I still remember the experience of accidentally running a red light and getting 6 points deducted—it was really frustrating. After receiving the traffic violation notice, the first thing I did was pay the 200-yuan fine through a mobile app, which was simple and saved me a trip to the service center. Then, the points were deducted, but I could participate in online or offline safety courses to reduce them. Completing the course could remove one or two points, though I had to book an available time slot in advance. Running a red light while driving is extremely dangerous—intersections are common sites for accidents, especially during rush hour when trying to save a few seconds could lead to a major crash. I’ve developed the habit of slowing down and checking the signal 10 meters before the intersection—better to miss a green light than to rush through. Accumulating points can affect insurance rates and license renewal. I’d advise both new and experienced drivers to stay cautious—tools can help a lot, but safety should always come first—don’t take it lightly.
