EXPLAIN TO ME THE DEMERIT POINTS SYSTEM & HOW DOES IT WORK?

 Demerits are basically penalty points which a person would receive for certain traffic infringement(s). Everyone who holds a valid driver’s licence starts with zero demerit points and if they continue to drive safely without committing any offences, they will continue having zero demerit points.

If a licence holder commits an offence while driving a motor vehicle (or even riding a motorbike), then they will have a certain numbers of demerit point(s) added to their driving record, that is if the offence which was committed was a demerit point offence (like speeding or not wearing your seatbelt etc).

When a licence holder reaches a certain number of demerit points (or reaches their demerit point limit as per their licence type) then their driver’s licence will be suspended. It should be noted that each ‘licence type’ has a certain demerit point limit.

It is critical to note that demerit points can be accrued if a person commits an offence driving anywhere in Australia. 

When a person (who holds a valid driver’s licence) reaches their demerit point limit, their licence is suspended (or their application to renew their driver’s licence is refused).

In this case, if this occurs, TFNSW will send the person a ‘Notice of Suspension’ (or when the licence holder makes an application for a driver’s licence, they will be issued with a ‘Notice of Refusal’).  The ‘Notice of Suspension’ (or notice of refusal) will have the date of the commencement of the suspension (or refusal).

We mentioned above that the demerit point limit is subject to the licence type which a person holds. Here is a quick rundown of the demerit points limit for each licence type.

1. Unrestricted licence– 13 POINTS
2. Professional drivers licence– 14 POINTS
3. Provisional P2 Licence– 7 POINTS
4. Provisional P1 Licence– 4 POINTS
5. Learner Licence– 4 POINTS
6. Unrestricted Licence During the ‘Good Behaviour Period’ – 2 POINTS.

Why Choose Nicopoulos Sabbagh Lawyers to represent you in your Traffic Law Matter?

Nicopoulos Sabbagh Lawyers are the leading Law firm in Traffic Law matters as our office appears at all Courts in NSW on a regular basis in ALL Traffic Law matters. No matter is too complex for the team so be sure to book your first Free Consultation today!

It is very important that you speak with a lawyer so that you can get the appropriate legal advice which you require prior to going to court. 

 Our team of experienced solicitors are there for you and can help you answer all your questions, so be sure to contact Nicopoulos Sabbagh Lawyers.

*This article correctly reflects the Laws of NSW as at 6^th November 2024.

*Please note that this page or any other pages on our website (including any other social media platforms for Nicopoulos Sabbagh Lawyers) are not to be considered as a substitute for legal advice or even other professional advice. It should also be noted that accessing of this information from this website does not create a client-lawyer relationship.