Military vehicle drivers will be permanently disqualified from driving during in-service periods after racking up three recorded traffic violations, according to a new agreement between Beijing's traffic police and the Beijing Military Area.

Several hundred drivers under the military area's command were informed of the regulation on Tuesday, and each received a blue card for recording traffic violations, the Beijing News reported.

Drivers must carry the cards and if they break traffic laws, police have the right to demand they produce the cards, on which officers will record their offences.

The military will constantly check drivers' cards and enforce corresponding punishments: Drivers with one offence will be banned from driving for three months; those with two violations will receive compulsory traffic education, as well as a temporary driving ban, the report said.

If a driver receives three traffic violations, they will be disqualified permanently for driving during their in-service periods. This punishment will be irrevocable until the offender completes their military service.

Previously, police had to write down information about military vehicle drivers' traffic violations and then send it to related army departments.

The Beijing Military Area has taken several measures to promote road safety, so as to welcome the Beijing Olympics, including a program aiming at decreasing accidents and violations.

Military vehicle drivers will also take part in a monthly examination on traffic laws. Those who fail will not be permitted to drive, according to the regulation issued by the military area.

(CRI May 3, 2007)